Every day, people make small decisions based on how and where they grew up. These decisions include what foods they eat, what they wear, how they interact with others and how they view the world.
I think it is very easy to look at someone who does things a little differently than you and think, "That's so weird!" when really, it's very natural for him or her. The world is such a vast place. Seeing that and accepting all the differences is an important part of becoming a global citizen. We may not realize it, but many things we are used to originated from different places, like the number system we use! There is value in the differences that separate all of us. We must learn to embrace these differences and appreciate them.
Learning more about other cultures is important to combating stereotypes, being able to put yourself in others' shoes and understanding that there is more than one way to go about a task. Studying abroad is a great way to learn about where others come from and their respective cultures.
