Preparing for my arrival in London, countless people had assured me this would be the largest life lesson to experience. I didn’t doubt I would learn some things but at the same time because I’m already on my fourth passport I thought I was more prepared than anyone. However, I quickly learned I was prepared in the same basic sense as if I was just flying away for vacation. Within two weeks, here are the lessons I learned and, hopefully, you will if you're considering study abroad.
You’re an adult.
You’ve probably been preaching this fact since you became 18 and nationally recognized as one, but the reality is U.S. society doesn’t place our adulthood at the same level as others. However, when you set foot in another country that gives all rights to 18 year-olds instead limited rights, you’re expected to be a full fledged grownup which can be scary and amazing all at once!
FOMO only hits you if you let it.
Let’s look at the facts here: you’re in another country! Who cares what your hometown and college friends are doing at the local areas because here you are, presented with the opportunity to do things like go to other countries on the weekends and get the greatest sense of adventure. If you want to keep up talk to your friends but don’t let social media, especially Snapchat, be the reason you feel like you’re missing out!
Communication is crucial.
It’s hard enough withstanding the long winter and summer breaks between semesters and we all know you spend all of your time in contact during that break because it feels as though it’s forever. The only difference is that right now you are taken out of the equation, your friends are reunited which means you do have to put in the extra effort to keep yourself in their everyday thoughts!
Your parents have done so much for you.
Being in college at home is a different type of independence. Abroad you realize all the things you took your parents for granted for. Grocery shopping and cooking for instance. In most cases your school won't have a dining plan so it’s up to you to regulate your own diet. Also remember how your parents used to send care packages? It's a little more difficult sending things abroad. All I’m saying is call them and express a little gratitude!
Money is a luxury.
Imagine the summertime, if you will. In the summer there are all these things you want to do with friends but you’re constantly broke despite having a job. Well welcome to study abroad where you literally would have to illegally work if you wanted a job so therefore when you come you are stuck with what you have and budgeting quickly becomes second nature!
Be open, in every situation.
The best part, in my opinion, is the fact that everyone is immediately themselves. Yes, it’s awkward to make all new friends but the sooner you let your guard down the more you’ll find new friends, be open to adventure, try new food, and just stop thinking about your image as much as you do at home. This is a temporary start over so use it to your advantage!
You can do this!
It may seem scary, but for the most part you’ll fall into your normal routine as if it is home. Two weeks in and I already am reconsidering where I want to live for life and it may not be America, but who knows! But with new friends and your quick adjustment it’ll get easier to feel connected to the people you love back home and secure in this new environment. Trust me, you’ve got this!
If I haven’t expressed enough, these are only the lessons I’ve learned in two weeks so I can only hope that they will expand and on your journey you will feel the same excitement to learn new things!
