I recently returned home from a semester of studying abroad in London, England. While there I learned a variety of things, from academic to cultural, and even about myself. Even though I already miss being in the U.K., I still carry these lessons with me, for London will always hold a special place in my heart. Here are seven lessons I learned from studying abroad:
1. Use time efficiently.
2. Explore!
Similar to the previous lesson, go out and see what the world has to offer. One of the great things about London is that you can walk pretty much anywhere. Even if you don’t have a set destination in mind, wandering around will probably lead you to intriguing shops, a royal park, or a famous landmark. And if you do have a specific place in mind, Citymapper is your best friend. There’s also handy signs that can lead you in the right direction, as well as show you places of interest that are five or 15 minutes away.
3. Take every photo opportunity possible...
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to take the same photo five times. You need to get that perfect angle! London is so beautiful that it’s definitely worthwhile to take a photo of everything that catches your eye. And if you’re at a tourist spot (because getting a red phone booth picture with Big Ben in the background is an absolute must) everyone will be taking photos. Honestly, going to London was the best thing to happen to my Instagram.
4. But still live in the moment.
All of that being said, do look up from your phone. It’s fun to post artsy Instagrams and cool Snapchat stories, and of course you need to capture lifelong memories, but it’s also important to just stop and look around. When I paused to take it all in, I couldn’t believe that this was my life. I felt so blessed and appreciative of all my experiences when I really experienced them.
5. Challenge yourself...
Pushing myself out of my comfort zone led me to some of my favorite experiences, and helped me gain more confidence in myself. While it may be difficult in the moment, in the end it’s worth it.
6. Because you can do it.
Before going to London, one of my biggest worries was riding the Tube. I am horrible with directions. Almost every time I rode the bus in Portland I would get lost. By the end of the semester, I was reaching pro status at riding the Tube, and I actually enjoyed doing so. Living in a different country will have its challenges, but you are capable of doing anything you set your mind to. It will just take a bit (or a lot of) practice.
7. Cherish every moment.
All too soon, it will come to an end. If you are like me you’ll find yourself sitting in the airport sadly eating your last British brand meal and wishing that you didn’t have to leave. But this sadness is good, because it means you enjoyed the time you spent abroad and didn’t take your experiences for granted. Time may pass, but memories last—make sure they’re good ones.
