Studying abroad means many things; it means being away from home, being on one's own, being responsible for one's actions. A year ago, this is what I expected. I expected some homesickness, some more responsibility, some more planning. I was right, these three things did occur during my ten months away; it was more than just that, however.
Studying abroad changed how I view myself. Before being on my own in Europe, I was a freshman in college, just barely finding my voice and realizing I have opinions. I didn't know how to feel about politics, religion, science, any range of topics.
Ironically, it was getting out of the country which boosted my political awareness and interest in American politics. Soon, it was the only thing Europeans were asking me about--though most questions were along the lines of "How on earth is Trump even successful? Are you all crazy?".
I, for the most part, listlessly continued in the spiritual beliefs I had been raised with, not questioning them seriously, not taking into account what I felt. I said what every other SDA-raised student going to an SDA university said in religious conversations--we are rather educated in our faith, after all. It wasn't until I experienced the serenity of the fields surrounding Stonehenge and the vast columns in Rome that I decided to look at religious history for myself.
I realized I have zero impulse control when in a bookstore or a pastry shop. I realized the networking was the real road to success, and that I need infinitely more time alone than I had previously thought.I realized that I can work much harder than I normally do, if need be.
But most importantly, I learned what it meant to be satisfied with my life, and to value people and their emotions like I never had before.
Approximately a year ago, I wrote a blog post in anticipation of soon heading to Europe. Looking back on it now I smile, realizing I really could not have prepared for my experience abroad. Below are the last things I had written before flying to Iceland.
Things I’m excited for? Europe. Trying new food. Spontaneous adventures. Exploring new cities. Learning French. Growing closer to some of my closest friends. Learning to integrate myself into new cultures. Pushing myself to be flexible.
Things I’m apprehensive about? Trying new food. Spontaneous adventures. Exploring new cities independently from older, more experienced adults. Speaking French. Integrating myself in new cultures. Being more flexible.
Not only did I try new foods, have spontaneous adventures, explore new cities, and speak French, but I grew. And as I grew into who I am today, I left a part of myself back in Europe.
