As I started my journey of studying abroad, I thought I knew what I was getting myself into. I had prepared myself to be away from my family and friends, started thinking about places I wanted to travel to, and bought all of the odds and ends I would need. However, as I wrap up my second week in a foreign country, I've realized that there are certain aspects of the experience no amount of research or conversation with other people can prepare you for.
1. The Food
Yes, it's amazing to get to try the different restaurants and local shops they have abroad. However, when you're stuck in a dining hall with two options you can't even fathom trying or a baked potato, you subside on carbs and carbs alone. Don't even get me started with the fact that you can only go up for food once (my ice cream will melt by the time I want it)!!
2. Prices
You may think you're getting a good deal when you buy Cheez-Itz and pop tarts for a total of seven pounds, but when you realize that's almost ten dollars you spent you question your decision. Oh yeah, and that 15 pound steal you found on a pair of shoes is really the average you would pay in America ($20).
3. Walking
It's really great to be able to walk almost anywhere you want to go. However, once you've walked over ten miles in a day getting lost in the city and you realize you're a solid ten minute walk from the closest tube station to get home you will question why you didn't want to consult a map before planning the day's route.
4. Public Transportation
Don't get me wrong, public transportation is truly amazing, especially when you're living 45 minutes outside of the city. The problem is, public transportation gets expensive. When you spend 3 pounds ($4) on a tube ride each way, or decide to take the bus back to campus instead of walking (because your feet just can't take it) it starts to add up.
5. How much you will miss home
Leaving your friends and family behind for four months will be extremely difficult. What you won't expect is to be going about your daily routine just wishing that they were by your side. The friendships you make while abroad will be extremely special, and a bond that can never be broken, but nothing compares to the one's waiting back home.
6. How incredible it would be
As much as you miss your friends and family, you are doing something most people only dream of. You are living a life that students all over the world only wish they could have for themselves. You will get to see some of the most beautiful cities, experience a world outside of your own, and immerse yourself in another place far from home.
So to anyone thinking about studying abroad...DO IT!! I can't tell you enough how much you will regret it if you don't go. No matter how hard it may seem for you to leave, I promise you it will be one of the best experiences of your life. To my fellow students abroad right now, your journey has only begun. Take advantage of the opportunity you have been given because in 13 weeks you will return home a different person, a person who has changed for the better because of the places they have been, the people they have met, and the chances they took along the way.
Cheers from London!!
