Why choosing to study abroad is a simple yes. Studying abroad during college is the best time to lear more about yourself and the world.

It seems like everyone spent the whole summer studying abroad and traveling the world while I spent mine jealously going through people’s Instagram pictures of their adventures in different countries. While scrolling, I came to the realization that if you have the opportunity to study abroad, you take it. Here are some reasons why you should take that risk.

You get to experience new cultures. When you’re traveling or living in another country, you’re completely submerged in the culture. I can guarantee you that it will be nothing like the American culture, and you should take every opportunity to soak it in. You meet the local people and start to learn daily routine, which can actually open your eyes to a new way of living. For example, while in Paris my freshman year, I found out that it’s extremely customary to have a dinner that lasts well over three hours. It’s really interesting to be able to experience things that you’re not used to, and that is definitely one of the highest perks of studying abroad.          

You may not have this opportunity once you graduate.  After you wear that cap and gown, it’s off to the adult world, including the adult bills. There are so many ways to get financial aid while studying abroad, from you tuition to your plane ticket. Take the opportunity to travel when you and your parents don’t have to foot the entire bill yourself. Plus, it’s highly unlikely your boss will let you take off the entire summer to explore Europe. Use the time you have for summer, or even for the semester, to explore the world. You’ll probably end up regretting it if you don’t.    

You get pushed out of your comfort zone. Being in another country can be tough, especially when it’s not very similar to home. You’ll have to try new foods, behave in a different way, and you might even feel uncomfortable at certain points. It’s so worth it, though. You learn a lot about yourself in the short amount of time you study abroad. It can even give you a newfound appreciation for your home country. You’ll learn to appreciate your own customs, and you might even find out that you want to incorporate some foreign customs into your life at home.     No matter where you go or how long you spend there, it’ll be one of the best experiences of your life, unlike any you’ve had before, and it might even give you the desire to travel more.