As days get shorter and air turns cooler, students anxiously await their return to campus. Currently at the University of San Diego, freshmen are moving into the dorms for the first time, sophomores are feeling free in the Vistas, and seniors are living a life of relaxation at the beach. But where are the juniors? Luckily for us Toreros, USD provides an incredible study abroad program which many third year students take advantage of during their fall semesters. Whether you are moving to London or Rome for four months, you are bound to have the adventure of a lifetime.
I understand how scary it appears to be, for moving to another country is very intimidating. The months leading up to my departure were filled with mixed emotions. Some days I was terrified, and others I could not wait to escape my town and board the plane. I wanted to start this new chapter in my life, but I had some doubts about traveling outside of the United States. Unfortunately, the world is not the same as it used to be; however, I realized I should not let that hinder my exploration and excitement in Europe. This is a “once in a lifetime” opportunity, and I will not let anything or anyone hold me back from carrying it out to its full potential.
That being said, don’t spend your days like how you did at home. For example, try your best to not waste hours in your room watching Netflix when you are abroad. You have a whole new home to explore. You can watch reruns of Gossip Girl any day, but how often can you eat gelato in front of the Duomo in Florence? Have your city become a part of you by completely embracing the new culture. You will return to the U.S. a changed person.
This aspect can lead to strange feelings before you pack up your life and leave home. I know I will return in the winter with improved knowledge on the Italian culture and a ton of new memories to tell my friends and family. I won’t be the same as I am now, and it’s crazy to think about how much can happen in the span of four months. It will be drastically different from a semester at USD. We’ve experienced those multiple times, and while they can be eventful, they are nothing compared to beginning a lifestyle in a foreign country.
I cannot wait to start this new chapter in my life. Leaving friends and family behind, this is an enormous step outside of my comfort zone, but I know in the end it will ultimately be worth it. Not many 20 year olds can say they lived in Europe during their college career. I am so thankful to my family for making this opportunity available for me. Whether you will be saying “ciao” or “adiós,” understand that your life is about to change for the better. Let the adventure begin!
