Let’s face it; the idea studying abroad is daunting. You probably won’t know anyone while abroad and there is a good chance you may not even know the native language in the country you are in. So why leave your comfort zone that is Boone and take on this intimidating adventure? I can think of dozens of reasons, but narrowed it down to five:
1. You will meet many people.
While studying abroad in Germany, France, and Austria last summer, I was lucky enough to meet some of the most interesting people and learn their stories. You will meet fascinating people, weird people, cool people, quirky people, nice people, and everyone in between. I encourage you to meet as many people as you can and really listen to what they have to say. Ask them questions. Learn about their culture and lifestyle. I promise you will make a friend or two in the process, along with some great memories
2. You will learn more than you think.
I learned more in the four weeks I was abroad than I have in any classroom. Completely immersing yourself in a new culture will allow you to learn things in a way that a textbook will not teach you. The language barrier issue is a factor that intimidates most people, myself included. When I landed in Germany, I instinctively started speaking the little Spanish I know because I did not know a lick of German (making me look like quite the dumb American, I might add). Needless to say I received a few (many) laughs while attempting to speak German, but at the end of the four weeks I surprised myself when I could pick up on little parts of a conversation. No matter how long you study abroad for, whether it is for one month, one semester, or one year, you will learn a lot more than you think just by being apart of a new culture.
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3. You will see things on your Bucket List.
You will most likely have the opportunity to see historical monuments and picturesque landscapes wherever you decide to study abroad. Experiencing these places in person is much better than just seeing them in a textbook.
4. You will eat amazing food.
It is a beautiful thing when you are in a country where it is encouraged to eat Nutella and croissants every morning for breakfast. That being said, you may gain a few pounds. It is inevitable when surrounded by amazing new cuisines. Embrace it and keep eating the delicious food.
5. You are young and have the world at your fingertips.
College is the one time in our lives where it is okay to be the center of our own universe. The real world will always be waiting for us, filled with obligations and responsibilities we do not have yet as college students. I understand all the things that could potentially make you reluctant to go abroad: a fear of losing touch with your close friends, missing a boyfriend, missing out on football games or social events. I know leaving the things we love for any period of time is sometimes pretty hard, but as twenty-something-year-olds, it is crucial to take a leap of faith and jump into new experiences. If studying abroad is something you have always wanted to do, then I encourage you to reward yourself with this life changing experience, and I promise, you will not regret it.