Coming to a close on my time abroad in Europe has caused me to reflect on myself and how I have changed over this summer. Everybody always told me that studying abroad would change me but they couldn’t explain how. It was overwhelming to think about leaving my friends and family for two months and taking on the world alone. What people didn’t tell me is you are not alone. Studying abroad offered me a support system I didn’t even know I had along with so many other things.
Independence
I know it sounds cliché but hear me out. My family has always been a very active role in my life. Now, I am definitely not saying I was dependent on them but they were always there when I needed them. Being almost half the world away and in different time zones definitely threw a kink into that. Especially when your phone goes wack and doesn’t allow you to make calls. Being abroad causes you to figure out almost everything on your own like weekend trips and everyday transportation methods. Me and my new friends got very good at planning weekend trips a day or two in advance. I even found myself starting to enjoy my own company and sitting down at restaurant alone, no shame.
An open mind
Studying abroad is the biggest opportunity to try things you never have before. That’s what makes it exciting. You should always do everything when abroad. It’s the best way to learn the culture of the place you are in. You cannot be afraid to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. I saw a quote the other day that said “Your comfort zone will kill you”. There is so much truth in that. Going abroad is all about doing new things and these things might make you uncomfortable but sometimes, that’s a sign you should do it.
Lifelong friends
The biggest thing to remember when abroad is that you are not alone. There are so many other people in your program going through the exact same thing. Talk to people. Even when you think you don’t have anything in common. You’ll surprise yourself. Don’t be afraid of going alone, there are other people who are also alone and looking for someone to talk to and go out with. Being alone through this experience was my biggest fear. Now in the end, my roommates and I have traveled to three different countries together, and we are already talking about traveling together annually. So my advice to you, step out of your comfort zone and talk to people, you have more in common than you think.
Global with Gabriella 