Before coming to Arcadia University, I didn't have a particular desire to go outside my backyard. I was always curious about other cultures and how people in other countries lived differently than I did, but I was content with pondering these things from the comfort of my own home. However, after arriving at Arcadia, the number one school in study abroad, I was totally hit by the travel bug!

My first initial desire to travel came with the announcement of the classes being offered for Spring Preview. For those reading who don't know what Preview is, allow me to explain. During the spring semester of a student's first year at Arcadia, they can take a two credit course about a particular country and then go to that country over spring break. How cool is that?!

When I heard about this program, I took full advantage of it! I sent in my application and anxiously awaited to hear what class I had been placed in to. Around the end of October/beginning of November, we finally got the email. I had been placed into a class that would be traveling to Vienna and Salzburg, Austria! I was thrilled!

As the spring semester started and my Preview class began, I was counting down the days until we boarded our flight and were on our way to a new country. When March finally rolled around, I could hardly contain my excitement for this new adventure! My bags were packed and I was ready to go!

The trip was absolutely spectacular! We saw a German opera, explored museums and a palace, had traditional German cuisine, went on tours, wandered the city, and so much more. I also had the pleasure of making some awesome new friends (one of which I'm currently living with). This trip inspired me to go outside my comfort zone and try new things. This is how my love for travel was born!

Because of this amazing experience, my desire to travel the world has increased exponentially. I've also set a goal of visiting at least one new country every year I'm at Arcadia- and so far so good. Last year's spring break was spent in Tijuana, Mexico building houses for a nonprofit, and this coming spring semester will hopefully be spent in Glasgow, Scotland!

I strongly encourage anyone who is even remotely thinking about traveling to do it! Going to another country and experiencing another culture is remarkable and something you can't get in your own backyard. Go beyond the fence and explore the world and see what it has to offer.

Happy exploring and safe travels!