I sit on a train bound for Paris as I write this blog post and reflect on my semester abroad. Studying abroad is the best thing I could have done for myself in college. I was able to learn so much outside of the traditional classroom setting and experience much more of the world than I had before. I was able to see the applications of theories and knowledge we learned in the classroom and see how it plays out in the real world, whether that be through environmental issues in Croatia or LGBT+ rights in Sweden. I grew as an individual by experiencing so many new firsts and allowing myself to be more flexible and comfortable in uncertainty.

Semester at Sea was the best study abroad program for me because it had numerous new opportunities and experiences and a great number of changes and uncertainty. I needed to grow more comfortable and learn to accept not knowing to lessen my worries. I also made a great support network and friends all over the US and globe. I also think studying abroad made me more serious about continuing to find more experiences to study or work abroad. I had considered applying for a Fulbright scholarship before or maybe applying for the Peace Corps, but now I am certain I want to apply for one if not both opportunities and maybe consider graduate school outside of the US. The world is an amazing place, and I finally got the chance to see more of. I would love to continue doing so for as long as I am able.

My advice to those thinking about studying abroad is to go for it. Find scholarships and grants that make it possible. Do not let the doubts stop you from going. Make room in your schedule even if it means taking summer classes. I will never regret all the effort and work it was for me to be able to study abroad because it was worth every 18+ credit semester, all the essays for scholarships, and anxious nights wondering if I would make friends. College is about growing and learning and exploring, and I do not think I would have grown, learned, and explored without studying abroad.