Going to a school such as New York University has given me a lot of opportunities to study abroad. Therefore, last semester, I studied abroad in Prague, Czech Republic and it was one experience that I could not forget. However, most students choose to study overseas once because it lasts around four months and can be a lot of time away from home and at the home campus. I decided to do a program where I go abroad one more time, the upcoming semester to Shanghai, China and it is a lot of commitment that is both exciting and scary.
One of the scary parts of studying abroad is being abroad for one whole year. Undergraduate consists of only four years, and I have spent a quarter of it in different countries. It definitely is a lot of time away from the states and my home, but it has both its upsides and downsides. Leaving my closest friends and my comfort zone is something that many people cannot just do in mere seconds. It took me a lot of time to realize how long I am going to be away from my home campus in New York City and how much I will miss out.
However, looking at the bright side, it is another chance to explore a different country and meet many new people that can potentially become a crucial part of your life. The life-long friendships you make abroad in a different country with other people in similar shoes can be one hell of an experience. Also, being able to go to countries and study there is a very rare experience, and I believe that if your school offers you the chance, take all the opportunities you can get. Studying abroad for more than once also gives you growth as an individual due to its life-changing experiences. I meet many college students that haven't even studied abroad once, not saying that it is bad, but looking into it and putting yourself out of your comfort may benefit you more than you think.
I know with studying abroad for a year can be a huge dent to your family relations and friendships. My parents were not the most excited about going abroad again because there does exist a huge distance that can be hard and difficult on the relationships around you. But putting that aside, you make new relationships when you are abroad, and the possibilities are endless.
At first, I did not enjoy being put out of my comfort zone, however, I realized that putting myself out there in the world benefits me into growing into a stronger and more independent person. The only advice I can give to those thinking of studying abroad and those students who are afraid to go for a long period of time is that don't limit yourself and take great advantage of all the opportunities that are offered to you.