5 Highlights of Studying Abroad:

     Spending a semester in Paris was one of the most memorable and greatest experiences I’ve had. This journey offered new unique delights, challenges and opportunities for growth, which have irreversibly shaped me and my future paths. When asked about my favorite part of studying abroad, unsurprisingly, I cannot pinpoint any one single event; rather, studying abroad is about a treasure chest of experiences, many of which may be commonplace events and learning to appreciate what each can offer. Regardless of where study abroad takes you or what your own goals are, studying abroad is a unique opportunity for exploration and growth that will bring many surprises, and perhaps, help you to better understand yourself. From my own collection of memories, I would like to share the following 5 highlights of my study abroad experience:

1.     Immersion in a foreign culture: A key way in which study abroad differs from travelling is that study abroad allows you to fully immerse yourself in your foreign country. Rather than trying to cram in visits to typical tourist sites, you can slowly integrate yourself with your surroundings and community. Simple everyday encounters, such as chatting with the vendors in the local market, can offer fresh insights into the culture and build into meaningful experiences. Additionally, integration into the local culture can also have wondrous effects on improving your foreign language skills.

2.     Freedom and independence: Studying abroad also affords a unique sense of freedom and independence that may be quite different from what you are used to at home. On numerous occasions, I would hop on the metro with my roommates and take a midnight stroll along the Seine River – a breathtaking and liberating experience! With freedom and independence, of course, also comes different responsibilities. In my program, students had to find housing on their own, which meant figuring out how and what type of housing to rent, negotiating with landlords or rental agencies and making prospective visits. Additionally, effective budgeting became crucial for keeping track of daily expenses, such as groceries and other household expenditures. 

3.     Exploring beyond your comfort zone: Being in a foreign country, especially during the first few days or weeks, can be quite daunting. At the same time, however, the unfamiliar surroundings, different customs, and complete strangers are an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and take on challenges. Without the comforting familiarity of home, you may be surprised by what you can learn about yourself as you explore your new environment, take risks, and meet new people.

4.     Travelling to new places: One of the main advantages to studying abroad in Europe (especially the Schengen Zone), is that it allows you to readily visit neighboring countries. Whether over a weekend or during a longer break in the semester, it is very easy to do some tourist sightseeing or backpacking in a nearby country. The numerous available international buses, trains and flights also facilitate travel within Europe, making it inexpensive and accessible.

5.     Coming Home: Lastly, a valuable outcome of studying abroad is that it can allow you to better appreciate home. This doesn’t necessarily require a sense of homesickness; rather, studying abroad can be like taking a long breath of fresh air, which helps to gain new insights about the home awaiting you. In addition to appreciating the small details you might have never noticed before, upon your return, you may also find that your study abroad experience has transformed your perspective on many former familiarities in surprising ways.

    Judy, Paris