Going abroad is an integral part of many individual's college experiences. For most, it is the first time that they are actually living in a foreign country with language barriers and the obstacle of a time difference, separating them from friends and family at home in an entirely new way. Typically, before they depart, people are most excited about the prospect of adventure, the prospect of new friends in a new place, a blank slate, night life, etc. Most people (from my limited experience) view going abroad as the ultimate escapade--which it can be. There is one aspect however, one bit of advice, that no one seems to be told.
Now, I could simply be unaware or oblivious and people could be told this advice all of the time--I am pretty oblivious. But let's give me the benefit of the doubt for a moment.
I am confident in the fact that everyone that goes abroad is told/is aware that studying abroad is a life changing experience. So, here is my advice: they need to let it--they need to allow this experience to change their life. "Well, Hannah, that is implied. If they are embarking on a life changing experience, then it will indeed change their lives" this is a valid thought, but I disagree.
Too many people go abroad and stay in their comfort zones. They stay only with their friends from school, they do not make international friends, they do not attempt to properly immerse themselves in another culture and they do not fully adopt the language of the place in which they are inhabiting. Most are too afraid to even eat the local food (anyone who knows me understands how blasphemous I think this is)!
Remaining in one's comfort zone is fine--it's safe and...well...comforting.
But if you want a life changing experience, a real hold on to your seat, life is moving so fast you can barely breathe, heart racing, blood pumping, path altering experience, you need to break through the confines of your comfort zone like a freight train. Do not remain within your typical friend groups, ask a fellow student from your host nation for directions, ask where the best swimming hole is and if they could show you. Try to learn the language and learn to laugh when you have completely butchered it. Go for runs by castles and rivers. Make friends with the elderly woman who owns the cafe down the street from your apartment. Google translate kind things to say and write them down to give to that same lovely woman when you stop in her establishment next. Make friends that you can visit years from now. Find hidden gems that aren't infested with fellow tourists.
If you go abroad, take a few pictures, and stay in your comfort zone--that is fine. You have already made a leap that most people in their lives won't--you bought a plane ticket and you went. If you want this experience to actually change your life, however, put your phone down. Do not obsessively upload to Facebook or instagram or snapchat. Pay attention to you and to the people and scenery around you. Once you embrace this, I think you will indeed find a true life changing experience.
Remember: "It's okay to be scared, that means you're about to do something really, really brave." - Mandy Hale
