Traveling the world is one of the most amazing things you can do as a young adult. While in college, you have the chance to explore and experience new cultures and just find yourself before we enter the "real world" and become "adults."
Here are 5 reasons every college student should study abroad:
1. It is already set up!
Studying abroad through a university for credit means there is already an itinerary and somewhat of a plan while you are there. When you are in college, you are so busy getting through classes, it's hard to plan trips. Leave the big stuff up to professionals that will help you get the most out of the experience. The best part is you do get free time, and you can spend it however you like (as long as you don't get arrested or severely injured...Don't be THAT person on the program). I personally liked going to parks and enjoyed the view of being somewhere different and just taking a moment to reflect on what I've been getting to do. It's always a fantastic idea to keep a journal as well as taking hundreds of photos.
2. You find yourself.
There are moments where you have to rely on yourself to make decisions and that's when you get to know the real you. You have to choose what to do with your time and you are in charge of your food, money, sleep schedule, and generally, the way you live during the program. You learn that you can adapt to just about anything. Try new foods while you are there. Talk to the strangers you meet along the way. Interacting with the people and culture makes the experience 10 times better than just sticking to what and who you know.
3. You get a new perspective.
You get to see all of the different things you've been learning about, and you will always have those memories to make new connections to in the future. It is a new way of learning, and it can be way more hands-on than just sitting behind a computer or reading a textbook. Your life changes when you've seen the bullet holes and mass graves of victims and soldiers. You get to experience art and see the real life applications and implications of whatever it is you are studying.
4. It is a bonding experience.
You get to share memories and stories with those that are with you. I made great friends with people I probably never would have thought of talking to. Studying abroad brings you closer together, and it is something that will connect you forever. You also get to know the faculty on a personal level that you can't always achieve on a college campus. You get to do day-to-day life with these people and get to know them.
5. You fall in love with it.
When you travel to another country, whether it is a study abroad program or just a vacation, there is a very good chance you will be looking ahead for the next chance to travel. Your heart will always be looking for that next opportunity to roam and explore. It is expensive sometimes, but it is completely worth it, because you will always have the memories and pictures and yes, even the souvenirs we all get before we leave.
I will never regret spending that extra money on the different programs I was fortunate to participate on. I loved visiting London and Berlin. I got so much out of those programs, and I know that I am not done exploring this giant, beautiful world we live in. I encourage everyone to make a list of four places to visit before they die, because this world is too amazing to not experience.
