This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Holy Cross chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
- It really is a once in a life time opportunity!We have heard it over the last two months how this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and to not let it slip by or gloss over the possibilities, but it’s true! When will you ever get the chance to say, I conducted research in Costa Rica, ate real Italian food, or went to the top of the Eiffel Tower, especially if many years of schooling after undergrad are in your life plan? I know, it’s daunting to think that you could potentially be away from your family, friends, and the comfort HC has brought to you over the last two years, for one year or a semester. However, you’ll forgive yourself and your family will forgive you too when you come back with some nice souvenirs!Â
- You’ll meet even more people!When you first arrive at college, it’s all about meeting new people and trying to make connections. Everyone is in the same boat and wants to be friendly and open with each other. While abroad, there are even more chances to meet new people and expand your horizons! You can join a club that your host university has that Holy Cross might not. You’ll find people in your host country that share similar values and idea, and you’ll gain a more enlightened perspective of the world. Plus, there’s always plenty of time to meet people while having a drink with some of your suitemates from your apartment.Â
- You’ll realize what you want out of life!We’ve spent most our sophomore trying to narrow down the possibilities for a major, minor, and/or a concentration; trying to see where our academic plan may take us in life; and whether it is actually what we want to spend our time learning about while here. While abroad, you’ll have plenty of time for reflection to see where you fit in with the rest of the world and if what you’re doing is truly what you want to do.
Making the decision to go abroad is an important one, and it will be completely worth it when you come back to HC senior year with a bunch of new stories to tell your friends!