In August, my twin sister left for London. She’s studying at Richmond University in the Kensington District of London. She’ll be gone for about four months. My sister has already gone to and planned a bunch of weekend trips all around Europe.
My sister pictured above, (left in Paris and right in Ireland)
Don’t get me wrong, I love my sister and am super excited to see her have fun traveling. But, that doesn’t mean I’m not a little jealous.
Plan a trip of your own
If you want to go on a trip, then the best way to satisfy that feeling is to go on one! Even if your trip is local, or just for a day, take your time to plan it. By planning it, you’ll build up your excitement to go. Or, if you have the budget, grab some of your friends who aren’t currently studying abroad either and go on an adventure. Pick a destination in Europe to just explore for fun with your closest friends!
Embrace the Instagram photos
Of course if your friends are studying abroad, you’re bound to see a series of photos on social media. But, don’t block them or refrain from liking the photos. Instead, like them and do your best to leave a cute comment. That’s your friend! Show them that you love them and are proud that they are living their life. Just because you aren’t traveling now, doesn’t mean that you won’t! Maybe this isn’t your time, but it will come.
Keep Busy
Lastly, keeping busy will keep your mind off of other people’s lives. Make sure that you have something to occupy your time besides school. Get a job, internship, or volunteer. It will help if you find something to do that will push your career forward. Nothing will beat your jealousy like feeling as if you are making big moves, too! For example, if you want to be a vet, try and see if you can shadow a local one. Or if you want to go into business, research some business internships near you. You’ll be surprised what you can do!
Remember that you won’t have to watch people study abroad forever! And it does not mean that your life does not rock. You are doing great and on your way to doing big things!
Keep working hard and you’ll be able to travel too.