Recently while studying abroad, I was asked by a native British person what made me choose to come to Cambridge. When I explained the study abroad options at my home university and how the current situation I'm in worked best for my major and my future field of study, he then proceeded to ask my whether or not I preferred my home, the city of Chicago, Illinois or Cambridge, England. At first, I was rather taken aback -- it wasn't actually a thought I had considered yet even though I have already been across the pond for over a month now.

Realizing that I should probably speak before I ended up staring at his face while trying to contemplate an answer, I chose to simply say "I don't know." I went on to explain that it really depends on the type of person you are and what your specific interests are. For example, if you prefer old architecture and buildings that have been around since before your great-grandparents were alive, then Cambridge is definitely the place for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy looking up to the sky and seeing buildings that almost reach the clouds and have an insane amount of windows, Chicago is the city to be in.

There were other aspects I thought about as well -- the music scene is much better in Chicago than it is in Cambridge (in my humble opinion) but there are more beautiful parks with scenic walking paths in Cambridge. Cambridge is also home to one of the most prestigious universities in the entire world, making it a home for the children of celebrities and dignitaries alike. Chicago also has good universities, but it isn't considered a collegiate town, though you may find celebrities shooting films or performing at Lollapalooza during the summer.

While I spoke about a few of these topics in response to the question I was asked, I ended up really thinking about it for a few days after. What I realized was that I simply cannot answer the question in a definitive way. Cambridge has welcomed me with open arms and for that, I have been so grateful. I have made the best of friends, created long-lasting memories, tried new foods, traveled around Europe, and will continue to learn and grow as an individual during my time here. The history that surrounds not only this beautiful city but also the country I'm studying in has also attributed to my ever growing love for Cambridge. I enjoy learning new things and discovering new places. Cambridge is constantly surprising me with all of its positive attributes and opportunities that arise for me not only as a student but simply as a person. Being away from home and in another country has allowed me to reflect on my life and what I want from this point forward while considering all that I have done in life up to this point.

I grew up only an hour and a half away from Chicago and now in this stage of my life, I am even closer to the city than I was before. I grew up going downtown to see shows, to see concerts, to attend museums, to take pictures like I was a tourist, and to simply walk around. It is a city that is very dear to my heart and one that I will always consider to be my home. I enjoy the city atmosphere so much that I consider daily the possibility of studying there at the post-graduate level. There is an energy that surrounds Chicago that is almost unexplainable, an overwhelming feeling I get the minute my train pulls into Union Station. I can always feel excitement in the air.

So when I look back and think about the question: "Do you prefer Cambridge or Chicago?" I don't think I can truly answer. Both cities have touched my heart and soul and have given me more than I will ever be able to put into words. Chicago is my home, and nothing can take that away; Cambridge is my study abroad home, and nothing can take that away either. These two cities have allowed me to grow, learn, and become the woman I am today. I have faced challenges in both cities and I have overcome those challenges just the same. Positive and negative things have occurred throughout life, but the lessons that Cambridge and Chicago have taught me allow me to persevere through it all.

So my answer would be:

Both. I prefer both.