To the students who are starting their journey out for the best experience of their lives, live every day abroad like it is an adventure. You may think that three or six months goes by really slow, but while you are studying abroad, it goes by in a blink of an eye. Also, don't just notice the big things, like the Eiffel Tower or Plaza de Espana. You should take note of the little things as well, like the little ice cream parlor you love and the people around that make you feel something. It is these moments that you will remember more.

To the family who let me live with them for three months,

Thank you thank you thank you. You took me into your home and treated me like one of you. You asked me what food I liked, what I didn't like, how my day was going, and were concerned if I was not home before midnight.

You taught me your language and your culture. I went through the hardest transformation while I was abroad and you made it bearable. When my grandmother passed away while I was abroad, you were the first people to give me the biggest hug, and because of that, I did not feel alone. You became my family away from my family, and I am forever grateful for that. I wish nothing more than your happiness.

Love,

Sophia

If I could go back to Sevilla and study abroad all over again, I would do it in a heartbeat. If you are thinking about studying abroad but don't know because you are afraid or money is an obstacle, just find a way to make it work. I still look back on pictures and can't stop smiling because of the amazing time that I had. The first couple weeks are hard away from family, but it gets better. So hop on a plane and go see this amazing world that we live in.