As everyone knows, your college years are when you can finally get to experience life on your own for the first time. This involves making important life decisions about careers, finances and whether or not to attend that 8 a.m. class. But it also means taking full control of your time spent here at Millikin. Namely, what is in your best interest as far as education goes.

But therein lies the question: what is in your best interest?

Should you stay on campus and work quickly to fulfill degree requirements in less than four years to minimize costs? Should you pursue multiple degrees and extracurricular activities but risk staying longer than the standard number of semesters?

Or should you spend more money and study abroad?

Millikin offers a variety of international programs. With a mission statement that inspires “democratic citizenship in a global environment,” that is to be expected. We find programs such as the fall London Semester Abroad Program and immersions to locations such as France, China, Germany or elsewhere. While the London Semester Abroad Program is a full semester, allowing for differing courses and can be covered by financial aid or scholarships, these immersions aren’t so cheap.

I’m attending an immersion to Germany this summer that holds a final cost of $4,300. Since it, like most other immersions, is not held during a traditional term, financial aid can’t cover it. I must apply for an International Fellowship, which could grant up to $2,500, and work as much as possible while still taking care of my school work.

Let’s face it: paying for international programs is not easy. But to me, it’s worth it.

I’ve always wanted to travel the world, but never had the opportunity. Attending Millikin has opened up the chance to do just that, with people I know and love while still earning a degree. Besides, when you travel with the University, they do all the planning for you.

So what if you have to get a job, a second job or pick up more hours at the one you already have? Being able to get out and see something new, maybe even in a country you’ve always wanted to visit, really puts those lost social hours into perspective and makes them worth it.