I will always have this sense of wanderlust inside of me. It's never been something I can fully explain, but I really just don't like staying in one place for too long. And perhaps that's the reason I'm now five hundred miles away from home at school.

I've been lucky enough to have so many chances to travel and I learned so much more, both academically and morally, than I ever could have learned stuck in a classroom. From my experiences of traveling, there have been certain things that I've learned and have been told that have really stuck with me to this day.

1. Not everyone is going to think the same as you and that's OK

There are currently seven point six billion people in this world. And they each come from a totally different background and lived a totally different life. Just because they think differently from you and have different views, does not make their views anymore invalid than yours.

2. Start every day with a fresh attitude

Every day you wake up, you were granted the opportunity to do something amazing with your life and your day. Don't waste it. “The beginning is always today."

3. “Those who do not learn history, are doomed to repeat it"

While occasionally being a snooze-fest for me, history is extremely important! You must understand what happened in the past, to know what to do for the future and for the present.

4. Be grateful for what you have

When traveling to other countries, you come to see things in a new light. I realized that while America may not be in the best shape, we could be in a lot worse of shape. I realized that one day I want to be able to devote my career to those in need all over the world.

5. Invest in experiences, not in materialistic things

I love a new pair of shoes as much as the next girl, but I would much rather roam around Europe in five dollar shoes, than walk around Walmart in three hundred dollar shoes. When you invest your money in experiences, you no longer have this desire to compare yourself and impress those around you.

6. Always be aware of those around you

Being outside of your comfort place can be a scary place to be. Especially when you don't the people, the language, or even the place of where you are at. From these experiences, I had to quickly be able to recognize and sense when I might be in danger. Making note of those around you at all times can save your life one day.

7. Cherish every moment

I know sometimes it can seem more important to share photos, but I have come to understand that I don't want to spend my life looking through a screen. Learn to cherish the moments you are in and don't worry about capturing them to share with others.

8. Live every day as it could be your last

You truly never know when it could be your last day on Earth. Don't be the person on their deathbed wishing they had done more with the life they were given. Do something with the life you have!

9. Plan things out

It's always a good idea to live a structured life.

10. But don't stress if things don't go as planned

Things can always change in a matter of moments, you just have to be grateful for what you have and go with the flow of the moment.

11. The rest of the world goes on around you, without you having to be there

I used to joke and say that one of the main reasons I decided to travel was to remind my spoiled-brat self, that the world does NOT revolve me. And it doesn't. Whether I am there or not, the world continues to spin ever so perfectly.

12. You never know where you might find yourself

My tour director of Venice, Italy gave me one of the purest statements. She said, “The pure beauty of Venice cannot be mapped out on a set direction. In order to truly appreciate the beauty of Venice, you must get lost in Venice." I have carried this statement with me far out from Venice and believe now sometimes it's OK to get lost among the sights. As long as you are enjoying the view, there is nothing to worry about.

13. Rome doesn't capture hearts, it steals souls!

The culture, history and just all around atmosphere of Rome, Italy is indescribable! I would give almost anything in the world to live there one day and be apart of it. This is more of a goal of mine that perhaps a lesson. However, I aspire to live my life as that of Rome, Italy. Indescribable!

While these may only be 13 lessons, for now, I can't wait to get back out there and continue to absorb all the memories and lessons I truly can.