In recent years, more and more college students are studying abroad. While, years ago it was uncommon for students to study abroad, now there is a push for people to study abroad. We want to go abroad and our future employers want us to go abroad. Consensus? Get your ass on a plane.
Going into college I knew I wanted to go abroad. Ever since I was young I have wanted to travel as much as possible. Unfortunately, I couldn’t afford to support this desire at the ripe age of ten. As I looked into colleges, I also looked into their study abroad programs. Studying abroad while in college is relatively affordable, and financial aid and scholarships offer even more financial backing.
So, I walked into my university’s study abroad office, and here I am. I plan on studying in Limerick, Ireland in the fall and I couldn’t be more excited. Just thinking about it puts a smile on my face. It’s going to be a life changing experience, and I cannot wait. Ever since the day I picked my destination, it’s all I can think about. I’m going to Ireland, and once I’m there? Paris, Spain, England, Greece are all just a plane ticket away. The adventure seems endless.
It’s safe to say that there are no words for how excited I am, and I’m sure there are many people out there that can relate. That being said, here’s a list of things that are likely to happen when you’re super excited to study abroad.
1. Studying abroad is always on your mind.
It becomes a slight (or not-so-slight) obsession. Especially, if this is your first trip abroad. What is it going to be like? Will I develop an accent too? I wonder what the people are like? Are they nice? Are they assholes? Where all should I go? Or a better question, where shouldn’t I go? It’s a constant real of questions and fantasies.
2. You read everything about studying abroad.
Luckily for me, people love to write travel blogs. Once my plans were set in motion I wanted to know everything there is to know about Ireland and going abroad. How should I pack? How early should I book my flight? What do I absolutely need? What do I absolutely not need? Pinterest has been my best friend because I found a countless number of travel blogs and tips that are really helpful.
3. Amazon. Amazon. Amazon.
Once I did a good amount of research on what I should and shouldn’t bring, I went searching for the things I would need. Where did I end up? Amazon. I just started a list and added all the things I need to it. Amazon seems to have just about everything. I could probably find a pet monkey on there with free two day shipping if I looked hard enough.
4. You ask about it 25/7.
This kind of goes back to that no-so-slight obsession thing. As much as I love talking about how great going abroad will be, I love listening to people tell me how great it really is even more. Talking to people who have already been abroad gives you a better sense of what to expect. They’re also a great source of information on the more technical parts of study abroad like applying for a program or your passport.
5. You become more frugal.
I want to have a great time abroad, but I know that means I’m going to need the money to do so. Lately, I’ve noticed myself holding back on the impulse buys in order to save more money for when I’m abroad. So, I reluctantly refrain from buying those really cute shoes or that chocolate cake that I really don’t need. It’s a struggle, but it’ll be worth it.
I could go on and on, obsessing over what studying abroad will be like, but I won’t really know until that day comes. I have 6 of the longest months waiting ahead of me, maybe you have even longer. I know life may seem extra-mundane while waiting for this life changing adventure, but I promise we can make it.
