Kelsea Myers, a 20-year-old college student, embarked on a unique journey during her freshman year by traveling throughout North America while taking online classes. This unconventional approach to higher education allowed her to explore new places, meet diverse people, and gain valuable life experiences. However, as her academic year progressed, Kelsea began to yearn for a more traditional college experience.
The decision to travel while studying was born out of financial concerns. With the rising cost of tuition and the prospect of accumulating significant student debt, Kelsea felt overwhelmed by the financial burden of pursuing a college education. Her parents, who had always emphasized the importance of financial responsibility, encouraged her to find a creative solution to minimize costs while still pursuing her academic goals.
Kelsea’s stepmother proposed a novel idea – enrolling in online classes at a local university to keep tuition expenses low, while using the saved funds to travel and explore different destinations. This innovative approach not only allowed Kelsea to fulfill her academic requirements but also provided her with the opportunity to immerse herself in new cultures and environments.
Throughout her travels in the US, Canada, and the Caribbean, Kelsea adopted a routine that balanced her academic responsibilities with her desire for exploration. She stayed in hostels, interacted with fellow travelers, and navigated the challenges of managing schoolwork in different time zones. Despite the occasional distractions and unreliable internet access, Kelsea remained focused on her studies and maintained a disciplined approach to her coursework.
One of the most significant challenges Kelsea faced was dispelling the misconception that her parents were funding her travels. In reality, scholarships, student loans, and personal savings covered her educational expenses and travel costs. Through meticulous budgeting and careful planning, Kelsea was able to sustain her nomadic lifestyle without running out of funds.
As her freshman year drew to a close, Kelsea realized that she wanted to experience a more traditional college setting. She returned to Missouri, secured an off-campus apartment, and immersed herself in campus life, attending football games and social events. While continuing to take online classes for flexibility, Kelsea found a balance between academic pursuits and social engagement.
Looking back on her unconventional freshman year, Kelsea has no regrets about her decision to travel while studying. The experiences she gained, the people she met, and the lessons she learned have shaped her perspective on education and personal growth. By thinking outside the box and embracing new opportunities, Kelsea has discovered the value of exploring the world while pursuing her academic goals.
