12 Reasons You Know You're Not Abroad Anymore
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

12 Reasons You Know You're Not Abroad Anymore

It's so different when you return!

10
12 Reasons You Know You're Not Abroad Anymore
Erin Rowland

Coming back from being abroad is definitely a big adjustment. Living away from home for so long makes you realize how much you missed it, but also how different life is when you're living in a different country. Not only did living in a different country for four months change your perspective on life, it truly affected and changed you as a person. While you may find that you will never stop daydreaming of your European adventures, here are the main signs that you had the chance to study abroad.

1. You had to throw out at least one pair of shoes from walking so much.

The fact that barely anyone drives in European cities and that I didn't have access to a car meant that walking miles and miles a day was a given. If something was a 20-minute walk, it was considered "close."

2. You're no longer intimidated by traveling at all.

Taking connecting flights and trains now seem like a breeze, and you've become an expert traveler and packer for sure. Public transportation, including buses, trams, and every subway, metro, tube or underground, was no challenge at all.


3. You appreciate American culture more than ever before.

Living without English signs, Wendy's, your favorite TV shows and stores definitely make you realize just how American you are and how much you love it.

4. You feel much more "cultured" than before.

Having access to world renowned museums, such as the Louvre and the Uffizi Gallery, and seeing masterpieces up close definitely gave you a sincere appreciation for other cultures.

5. You've tried food in different countries and yearn for your favorites that you just can't find in America.

Pear ravioli, anyone?

6. You find it so unfair that you're not 21 yet and America is pretty much the only country in the world with such strict drinking laws.

I really, really miss Italy's freedom of open containers and four euro jugs of wine.

7. You miss walking by some of the oldest and most beautiful buildings and landmarks in the world on a daily basis.

8. You scroll through your thousands of abroad pics every few days and have a little separation anxiety.

9. You can't believe how expensive it is to travel in America.

Especially when literally ten euro flights exist in Europe!

10. You feel much more adventurous than you ever did before.


Studying abroad really forces you to get out of your comfort zone and I miss having amazing, new experiences on a daily basis.

11. You don't really remember learning anything in your classes, mostly because they all consisted of walking around and your professor taking you to their favorite gelato place.

12. You can't stop dreaming of when you'll return and how lucky you were.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

97541
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments