Study Abroad in Pakistan, Essay Example

The economic progress over the last few decades has been impressive by any measure but unfortunately our world has not become any safer if events like 9/11 and the war of Afghanistan as well as the ongoing conflicts in Middle East are any indicator. There are usually two ways of dealing with conflicts; use of force and dialogue, and it is clear that use of force may yield quick results but they tend to be temporary in nature and the short term gains are easily outweighed by the long term costs. It is not only me who believes in the power of dialogue but even the creation of Rotary Club was inspired by the fact that mutual understanding and respect are the key to global prosperity. I share this passion with the Rotary Club and this is exactly why I seek to spend two semesters at Pakistan’s leading academic institution LUMS. It has not been an easy decision because I am aware of the strong anti-American sentiments among Pakistanis but sometimes the best courses of action are not the easy ones.

It is important to be passionate about particular causes but they also require resources. While I have no doubt it will be one of the most rewarding experiences in my life, unfortunately I do not have the required resources to undertake the year-long trip. My research indicates I will need $20,000 including airfare and I have managed to arrange for $5,000 from personal savings. Thus, I seek your financial assistance in this regard t make this trip a reality. I would like to emphasize the fact that the benefits of this educational trip will continue to accrue for a long time even after I have returned. I would take this opportunity to list some of the benefits:

1. Rotary Club has local branches in Pakistan including Lahore where LUMS is located. I plan to closely work with them during my stay in Pakistan.
2. Rotary Club of Wilmington, Delaware has an on-going partnership with Lahore MozangRotary Club and members of both clubs have hosted each other over the years. The insights gained from this trip may be valuable to Rotary Club U.S. branches such as Rotary Club of Wilmington.
3. My career goals include working with federal and private organizations with stakes or operations in Pakistan and the Middle East.

In addition to Pakistan, I also plan to take educational trips to various Middle East countries. I would also like to point out the fact that this will not be my first trip to Pakistan. During my previous trip, I realized that American and Pakistani people have more similarities than differences and people of both countries have quite similar vision of the future. But lack of communication between the people of two countries has contributed towards widened gulf. Thus, the key to protecting U.S. interests in the region is not greater collaboration at state level but at the public level. I look forward to your assistance and would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude in advance.