Almost two months have passed since the day I boarded a plane with 15 strangers and traveled across the Atlantic Ocean. As I took my first steps off the plane and into London, England I knew that I would never be the same person. If you had asked me then, I couldn’t tell you why I felt that way... but I was right.
In December of 2016, I hit a dry patch. I was completely restless with my daily routines and I needed something new and exciting in my life, something to look forward to and something to dream about. It was only 24 hours later that the universe would answer my call and deliver an email calling to all English majors with a craving for Shakespeare and travel. Adrenaline radiated through my body and I ignored my lack of inquisition, and I went for it. For the first time, I didn’t allow myself to make a mental checklist of everything that could possibly stop me. Instead, I decided to let my feelings pour themselves into the application. I obsessed over what to say, slaving for hours until I couldn't do anything else but hit send. After a month and a half, the painful wait was over and I discovered in just five short months 14 other students and I would be packing our bags for a two and a half week experience abroad.
1. Work Hard, Play Hard(er)
Of course, when I realized I was going overseas the first thought as a full-time student who pays her way through college was money. Many people believe studying abroad is just too expensive to be realistic. But, what they don’t know is that it is actually much more practical than they'd expect. Having a time frame and the motivation to go somewhere pushed me unlike anything else to work hard not only to save money but to succeed in the classroom. A study abroad program takes up quite a bit of time and effort and does not merely come down to the signing of a check. You get what you put into it, and when you work really hard to get there the experience becomes that more magical.
2. You're Basically Google Maps
A skill I didn’t realize was required when going abroad with no car and having to solely rely on public transportation is… navigation. This is something I struggle with on a daily basis here in America. I’m that person who frequently mixes up my left’s and rights. Well, let me say this now, Shakespeare waits for no one. Researching train times, knowing which tube line to get off at, understanding the world of London Ubers, and figuring out which route to walk became our number one struggle. Most of our issues fell within the parameters of transportation. But, by the end of the trip (literally the last few days) we completely conquered not only England but our side trips to Paris and Amsterdam. (Don’t even get me started on navigating those… that’s another story).
3. Quick, Make A Decision!
There were countless times on this short trip that we found ourselves in various situations, having to quickly make a decision. Whether that be getting stuck on the tube when it closes at 1 a.m. and realizing you’re in an unknown section of the city, picking a random train line and hoping it takes you to your destination that you're already late for or figuring out how to save a friend from one too many drinks. We were there and we had to act fast.
4. Freedom
England was the first time I had ever been overseas and on a trip not carefully planned out by my dad. We also completely scored and each had our own mini apartment. With this came total and utter independence. Everything was new and unknown and we had to conquer it on our own. It forces you to completely grow over night, and in the best way possible. Once you safely take on three countries in two and a half weeks you truly feel like you have the ability to handle anything that is thrown your way.
5. From Strangers To Forever Friends
Although that independence came with the company of 15 strangers. Subsequently, when you sit next to a group of strangers on a plane, all traveling for the same reason with the same interests, you’re left with lasting friendships. Honestly, this trip wouldn’t have been half of what it was without those people. They are one of the sole reasons for my growth. Through the trials and tribulations we faced in that short amount of time in our temporary foreign home, they helped me discover myself. I was able to learn more about the person I am and who I strive to be. I mean, if it wasn't for them I still may be stuck on a train somewhere. Everything we did required teamwork. When I stepped off the plane into Boston, I was deeply saddened. For the obvious reason of leaving behind one of the most incredible cities I’ve ever loved, but mostly to not be surrounded by the most incredible, and intelligent group of people I now can call family.
Studying abroad is worth every piece of yourself you have to put into the trip. Money, time, studying and your heart. I was able to walk away knowing I explored a deeper part of myself I couldn’t have ever done at home. I was able to form lasting friendships, become independent, pick up skills I never deemed important, and push myself to depths I didn’t think possible. Because of this opportunity, I now have a greater understanding and appreciation for who I am.
It’s an adventure you’ll never regret.
