Three months ago, I wrote an article addressing my concerns about traveling abroad alone for the first time. I realized the amazing opportunity I have been able to experience was due to the generosity and help of so many others.

I had attended the study abroad fair every year and collected a plethora of brochures showcasing enticing campuses from all over the world and all the programs that could be completed away from Emory. However, the anticipated program costs were a large deterrent. I could not imagine how I would convince my parents to allow me to study abroad when they were already paying my tuition.

Without my friends and the study abroad office (shoutout to Kate Dawson!), I would convince myself to not attempt to apply for the summer study abroad in Morocco. Instead, she encouraged me to apply for the Gilman Scholarship and offered advice on writing the essay and applying. She also informed me about the Critical Language Scholarship that if awarded, would give more money in addition to the Gilman Scholarship. Without her giving me that small extra boost, I may have missed my chance to study abroad.

Furthermore, I decided to apply for the Gilman Scholarship before telling my parents my plans to study abroad. My plan was to show them how much I wanted to study abroad and prove I was working towards funding the trip myself. I applied for the Gilman scholarship and a month later, I received an email notifying me of my award status. I was overjoyed and surprised I had recieved the scholarship. I called my parents ecstatic at the possibility I could make my study abroad a real experience.

My parents listened to my plan to study abroad. My dad was slightly hesitant, but came around once I mentioned the Gilman Scholarship. I read them the program brochure and the costs. I called my health insurance company and the financial office multiple times to verify my required documents. Moreover, when I was becoming nervous about flying alone and being in a different country for an extended period of time, my parents reassured me I would enjoy myself. They helped me prepare for my trip asking me what I would need to buy and ensuring I had everything I needed.

While in Morocco, the friends I made there would ask me how I chose to study abroad in Morocco, how I told my parents, and how much it cost. I realized once I had decided that I wanted to make my study abroad experience a reality, I planned exactly how I would come closer to actually going abroad. Identifying the small goals that need to be reached in order to attain the large goals is important.

I would like to thank everyone who helped me before, during, and after my trip to Morocco. I would have never imagined or had the means to participate in such a great experience.