During college, study abroad is mentioned all the time. Some people believe it isn't worth the hype, but I am here to tell you it is DEFINITELY worth it. I studied abroad in the beautiful country of Italy for five weeks over the summer and I would go back in a heartbeat. You may think I am crazy (because I only lived there for a little over a month), but I am so homesick for that beautiful place. I love America, but I left a piece of my heart in Italy and it will never be returned. So for all of you considering studying abroad, this is why you should:
1. The experience
When will you ever get the chance to be in Rome one day and Paris the next? It is totally possible because I did it. You can check off the craziest things on your bucket list, visit the coolest places and most of all, indulge in the culture. I have come back to America feeling very cultured and sometimes wonder why we don't do what the Italians do. The culture is one of the best parts of studying abroad because it is new and exciting. The food is so much better than our American versions of it, the lifestyle is totally different than those in the movies and the places are so much prettier than the pictures. I know without a doubt, I peaked when I studied abroad.
2. The culture shock
Yes, it is a real thing. It is scary and confusing.But I think everyone should experience the feeling of culture shock in their life. It teaches you a lot about people and yourself. I have a new respect for cultures because of my study abroad experience. Yeah they might do weird things, but so do us Americans who basically have a holiday where we watch two teams run a ball down a field and pay millions in ad commercials. It teaches you about yourself the most. I didn't have someone to decide things for me or tell me how to handle life abroad, I figured it out for myself. Yes, there were people I could talk to, but each person has a different experience with it. I now am more sure of myself because of study abroad.
3. The friends
Some of my very best friends I made while studying abroad. They become your support system since your family is miles away.We shared things that I am sure my friends back home do not even know. We had the best nights out, great nights in and so many dinner dates. They are my people. We share study abroad stories all the time, which I am sure my other friends are glad I have someone to talk to because I would talk their ears off. We became cultured together and my experience wouldn't have been the same without them.
4. The classes
Unfortunately, you do actually have to study. While they probably won't be the highlight of your trip, they are definitely something you remember. You spend more time than you think in these classes and they are a lot different from you classes at your home university. For example, my school was in the old home of one of the most powerful families in Italy during their day. I am sure your regular university doesn't have that aspect. Not many people can say they attended a university in another country.
5. The food
I know I mentioned this before, but it is worth mentioning again. The food is one of the most amazing things. It is so much different than food at home, so eat as much as you can. My diet in Italy was gelato and carbs and I couldn't have been happier. I probably could tell you almost every meal I ate because it was so good.
If you have the chance, go for it! Studying abroad will forever be one of my greatest memories. It is an awesome experience that is hard to put into words. Please go, so I can live vicariously through you.
