Not All That I Imagined It To Be, But A Lot More Valuable Than I Ever Expected

My study abroad experience was bittersweet. I had amazing moments and it was an opportunity I am so grateful that I was able to have. But I also encountered a lot more struggles than I anticipated, which made the experience a challenge. To start with the positives, I loved my program. The center was great and the IES staff was wonderful. They were all fun and personable, and made the experience easier. I loved my classes and professors. I loved the city I was in and it was amazing to be able to travel. My apartment was beautiful and in an incredible location. There were so many wonderful moments during my abroad experience. While there were great times, there was also some hardship. I didn't make many close connections with the people in my program, which made it a little lonely at times. It wasn't the same as being at home. I didn't have consistent travel buddies, and I was on a budget, so I didn't get to travel as much as I wanted to. I wish I had an opportunity to meet more locals, but it was difficult since my program was for Americans and because there was a language barrier. Though not every single memory is 100% happy, I gained so much more from this than I could have imagined. I lived on my own in a new place and I learned how to integrate into a culture. I faced more challenges than I thought I would, and it made the experience not as much of the dream trip that I imagined. But I learned a lot about myself as a person, and what is important to me. I proved to myself that I can face troubles like these and still be okay. During my time abroad, I saw incredible sites and experienced amazing things that I will remember for the rest of my life. Study Abroad is such a unique opportunity and I am so glad that I took that chance.