Study Abroad, The Adventure of a Lifetime

Last year at this time, I remember the extreme emotions racing through my mind and body in deciding whether or not to study abroad. I felt fear, anxiety, and change. However, I also felt a rush of independence and the desire to try something different. I am so thankful that I trusted my instincts and spent my summer in London. Now when I hear my friends considering the opportunity to study abroad, and I am filled with jealousy. To be at the start of a new adventure, not yet truly realizing what a gift studying abroad is. No matter where you choose to go, choose to go somewhere.

Having the ability to live and learn about a place you may never have been before is refreshing. Much too often, us college students get caught up in the routine of class, work, and social life. We forget that college is a time to learn about ourselves, and do things we may never have the chance to do again.

When I decided to study abroad, I did not go through my U.S. university. Instead, I went out on a limb like I had never done before, and went on a program where I knew no one. It was not until my flight landed in Heathrow that I was able to meet the program directors, my roommates, and companions who were soon to become some of my best friends. While this experience was terrifying, it was also the best decision I have ever made. Having a complete fresh start allowed me to be myself entirely, and realize that I can do anything. Moving across the globe by myself taught me that I am independent, and can accomplish whatever I set my mind to. I learned to have faith in myself.

View of Tower Bridge from the Tower of London

Soaking up every aspect of British lifestyle last summer was unforgettable. The things I had dreamed of doing all my life were suddenly my reality. I found myself exploring British museums and history, seeing what I had learned in textbooks now up close. I was able to watch a Shakespeare play in the Globe Theater, and sit along the River Thames staring at the Tower Bridge. My friends and I took excursions to Stonehenge and spent hours examining the architecture and glory that is Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral. We learned about British government, and I even saw the Queen as she was driving through the city of Westminster.

We lived, breathed, and ate London. We learned the public transportation system, taking the tube every day to class and around the city. We became comfortable using the British currency as our form of exchange. We added new words to our vocabulary that we would soon take home to the states. As residents living next to Portobello Road, we shopped for produce and goods as Londoners do. We went to pubs, met local Londoners, ate fish and chips with cider, and learned to bring our umbrellas everywhere we went. Not only did we learn, we experienced life in London.

One of the most memorable experiences was being in London during the 2012 Olympics. On the last night of our stay in London, my friends from my program and I attended the Olympic torch homecoming relay event. Hyde Park was filled with spectators, musicians, Londoners, and travelers. After my program ended, one of my sorority sisters and best friends from home met me in London, and we were able to attend some of the public Olympic events including the cycling race in front of Buckingham Palace.

Never did I imagine I would be able to experience so many life changing events all in one short month. Upon returning from London, I felt rejuvenated and independent. Beginning my senior year in college, I felt the most confident I’ve ever felt. Despite my skepticism for my plans after graduation, I knew after studying abroad that no matter what my future had in store, I could do anything.

So for all of those students deciding whether to study abroad, my answer is yes. Wherever you go, whatever you do, take this opportunity and jump on it. Learn about a new place, live a different life, learn about yourself, and realize you can do anything.

Windsor Castle