During my senior year of high school, I had the opportunity to go to Italy. My sophomore year of college, I had the opportunity to go to Guatemala. Signing up for these trips were probably some of the best decisions of my life.

Though traveling to Italy was more to explore the country, and Guatemala was a service trip, both were unforgettable experiences. I know that the most common reason people won'tgo on these trips is because they are expensive for poor college students. I get that completely, but these trips are once in a lifetime opportunities. As cliché as it sounds, international trips really do change your life. You meet great people from all around the world who live completely different lives than you do. I was able to share my own stories and hear other people’s stories about how different the way they live is. Plus, you get all these cool stamps in your passport!

As odd as it sounds, you also get to see the world through different airports too. Airports will be your best friend and your worst nightmare. You learn to love them because that means you get to travel and experience new adventures. At the same time, you will hate them because no matter what, you always seem to face a delay somewhere and spend countless hours, or even entire nights, at the airport. I’ve done it before, and trust me, it sucks. However, it can also be a great experience depending on who you are with and what you are doing. I’m sure that some people who read this will know exactly what I am talking about.

I have been lucky enough to go on many different adventures with my friends to explore new countries and see what this world has to offer. It is mind blowing that I have been fortunate enough to see so many amazing things. I have been able to experience the world in a way that many people never get to, and for that, I am forever grateful. One of the things I loved the most was experiencing different cultures. In the US, different states have distinct cultures. Imagine what it is like from country to country; the different people, foods and traditions. With all the different things to see and experience, you really don’t want to miss out on any of it.

Most young Americans are very sheltered people. We hear about events that happen in other parts of the world, but most likely, many of those situations will never become our reality. Traveling to other countries makes you realize that the world is not all fine and dandy like it is in the United States. People live in really horrible situations but they are happy because it is the only thing they know. Seeing how others live really changes your perspective on life. These trips made me so grateful, knowing that I will always have food on the table and a roof over my head.

So take the risk while you are young and have the chance! Go ahead and spend the money. Sure, it might cost a lot, but these are opportunities that you may never get the chance to be a part of again. What's holding you back now? Just go. I promise that you will never regret it.