As I approach my fourth week of studying abroad, I think I can officially say it has been the best decision of my life. These past few weeks have been filled with so many new memories, foods and places that I wouldn’t replace for anything. Whether it is Western Europe, Rome, or Paris (the best one, not biased, of course), I hope this article convinces you that studying abroad is the right decision for you, too.
- New place, new start
For me, the first day I got here brought a major change in my life that I wasn’t expecting, even when I landed in Paris. However, being in a new place has allowed me not only to process the grief of everything that has gone on in my life in the last year, but also to start this new era post-grief in a new place. A place that is way more fun than the U.S. It is much easier to analyze what has gone on or may be bothering you when you are thousands of miles away from those problems.
- People you would never meet otherwise
When I tell you I was terrified of coming to a new country without anybody I was close with or knew well enough to call a friend, I was beyond petrified. I think I can’t even put into words the anxiety I felt about making new friends. However, I am nothing if not grateful for the amazing people I have met these past four weeks. One of my closest friends here doesn’t even go to St. John’s, and we would have never crossed paths if it were not for SJU Paris. It is so fun to meet new people, hear about the things they are doing on campus that I am not, and experience a new part of the world with new points of view.
- Europe is beautiful.
This point doesn’t need an explanation, but Paris is severely underrated. No hate on Rome; when I went there for global passports, I was in awe of its beauty. However, Paris is something else. It is as if NYC were so much prettier and had slightly less friendly people. It was honestly so easy to adapt to being here, thanks to the amazing metro system and overall vibe. I mean, who doesn’t want to wake up every day a 30-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower?
- An experience you will never have again.
One of my biggest concerns before going abroad was the amount of time that I was missing at the Queen’s campus. But really, my biggest concern about not going should have been missing out on the only time in my life I will be able to travel Europe for four months, entirely consequence-free, without the stress of adult things like work. This opportunity does not just find its way back into our lives. College is the only time when studying abroad is something you can just do, so do it.
If you were doubting applying to study abroad before reading this, I hope your doubts were put to rest; if not, the rest of my articles this semester sure will. Of course, there is homesickness, but home will be there in December when I come back. But I will never be 20 in Europe for four months again. If this opportunity crosses your path, do yourself and me the favor and take it.
