Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Whether its just out of the country, half way across the world, or even somewhere else in the U.S., the experiences you have, knowledge you learn, and people you meet are things that you will carry with you for the rest of your life. While this is an amazing opportunity and experience, it does require you to leave the happiest place on Earth (JMU obviously). And while you're away eating real Belgian waffles or jumping off cliffs on the Amalfi Coast, there is no doubt you miss the place you call your second home.
So here's a list of 10 things you will miss and be looking forward to returning to when you study abroad.
1. Hanging Out On The Quad
Fall is just around the corner, but its still warm and sunny in the Burg. There are still plenty of people throwing their frisbees and letting their dogs run loose on the quad and you wish you were there to soak up every minute of it.
2. Game Days
The closest thing you'll get is "futbol" and we all know that does not even compete with football. Tailgating, throwing streamers, dancing along to the MRD's (you know they're amazing), are all things you wish you could be doing. But don't worry, there is always next season.
3. E-Hall Brunch
*cue mouthwatering* Waffles, omelets, french toast, pancakes, tots, and everything else you can think of. Even though you'll be eating crepes in Paris and waffles in Belgium, you know you will be missing those late morning brunches with your roomies.
4. UREC
We might not love to work out, but you can't deny that the new UREC is incredible. From the new pool, to the sauna, to the new equipment and the new workout rooms, you'll definitely miss going to the gym to "workout."
5. Quad Cats
No matter how much of a dog person you say you are, you definitely get excited when you see those furry black cats come out of the bushes whether they let you pet them or not.
6. Wilson Bells
You always know what time it is when the bells of Wilson ring. And when the fight song rings out you think about how great of a school JMU is and how much pride you have for being a Duke.
7. Trips Downtown
Brunch at The Artful Dodger, window shopping at Bluetique, or chowing down on a burger at Jack Browns, or just walking around, there is something unique about downtown Harrisonburg that you just love.
8. Klines
Those late night cravings for the flavor of the week or a shake can always be cured with a trip to Klines with your friends. Gelato in Florence is nice and all, but you'll be happy to get that flavor of the week when you get back.
9. The Views
Where do I even start with this one? The Quad, the sunsets, the Shenandoah Mountains, the James Madison Statue in front of ISAT. The sights where you are studying will be breathtaking as well, but you'll miss those many Instagrammable moments at JMU and you will be happy to return to the beautiful place you call home.
And last, but certainly not least...
10. The People
We all know JMU has the friendliest people in the world. The professors, to housekeeping, to the amazing friends from all over the country that you have made. And while you're out exploring the world you can't wait to be back with your best friends.
