by Karyn Clemons

Created on: May 04, 2009

At this very moment, somewhere in the world, students are trying to stay awake in class. A teacher drones on about a topic that few of the students see as relevant or applicable to their lives. In the same city where students struggle to be interested in their classes, people are travelling. They are eating like the locals, discovering differences in their cultures, and exploring museums. In a world where people claim that knowledge is power, the desire for knowledge is vital to success. Where does this desire come from? The strongest learners are those who are intrinsically motivated. Some students may be able to learn in spite of dull teachers, but most must be stimulated in other ways. Travel is the most powerful way to learn.

Through travel you can gain knowledge of other cultures. The world is vast and so are the people who live in it. Many people think they can learn about the world through movies, books, and the news. This is how stereotypes are born. By travelling directly to a place, people can talk to others themselves and realize that people everywhere are unique individuals who do not deserve labels. These experiences can serve to fluff a resume, impress an interviewer, and diversify connections. During a time when it is difficult to acquire a simple interview, these experiences are invaluable for future success.

History comes alive when travelling. A child learning about the Revolutionary War may have to commit "The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere" to memory, but walking through Paul Revere's home is going to make a greater impact. As these children who have the good fortune to be taken on trips grow up, they will remember the impression that historical sites have had on them and have the desire to learn more. They will begin by using books, but when they have the independence and ability they will desire to learn through travel even more. People who have a grasp on world history are rare. If a person can impress a new contact with knowledge of Ancient Rome, he may be able to land himself a new job or a promotion.

Travel changes people. After seeing children begging for money in Indonesia, one may not feel as unsatisfied with his run-down car. A person's concern for what to wear may fade away after feeling the wonder and amazement that only the Grand Canyon can provide. When doubting that the world can work through the economic crisis, one can take a trip to The Great Wall and remember what man is capable of. The world offers people a powerful view of themselves and reminds them that more is possible than they might originally think.

People need to know that it is acceptable to take time off from their lives to see the world. Through these experiences they grow as individuals, learn beyond the books that they read, and cherish the wonders of the past. They will never be the same again. People need to expose their children to travel so that the desire to see more than just their own backyard can be planted in them. These are gifts that people can give to each other. With the gifts of knowledge and understanding comes power. Let travel empower you.

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