-
Learning to Slow Down in Seville
posted on
Expectations as a senior going abroad Going abroad as a senior, I assumed most of my growing and learning was behind me. After all, I had already navigated the challenges of college and even studied abroad in Spain. Surely, this experience in Seville would be a breeze—an opportunity to refine my Spanish and enjoy the…
-
Navigating Emotions and Exploring on Foot in Prague
posted on
Throughout a study abroad experience, it’s common to experience a range of emotions. There’s excitement through exploring a new culture and making friends. Homesickness for the familiar routines, people, and foods. Independence built through self-sufficiency. Overwhelm from navigating a different culture and language. Accomplishment by meeting challenges that arise. And sadness and nostalgia for the…
-
Why You Need to Play Sports While Studying Abroad
posted on
Months before I left for my semester abroad in Valparaíso, Chile, I was standing before my university men’s ultimate frisbee team, explaining why I deserved to be captain for the next season. Everyone had the same question: Aren’t you going abroad? I assured my teammates that I was already in the process of contacting frisbee…
-
Discovering Chile: Traveling Within a Country, Not Just Through It
posted on
When I was choosing among the many IFSA programs, one factor I considered was how easily I could travel to other countries. In many programs, students often try to visit as many countries as possible, almost as if there’s a competition. Santiago, my host city, is a major hub for travelers, with trains, buses, and…
-
An Introvert Goes International Studying Abroad in England
posted on
I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where I when to school from preschool to high school. I ended up choosing to attend college in Atlanta as well. I had become accustomed to a familiar and frankly repetitive life. Before studying abroad, I had travelled a good bit and had only been out of…
-
A Young, Black, English Teacher in China
posted on
During my study abroad with IFSA in Shanghai, China, I was offered an unpaid internship opportunity to teach English to migrant children. After going through the required bureaucratic documentation, I was finally allowed to start teaching after a few weeks of living in Shanghai. This began what was honestly a life-changing experience. As a Chinese…
-
Preserving the Magic of Study Abroad
posted on
Studying abroad is an unforgettable experience that has forever changed my life. Ireland, the people I’ve met, my campus, even the weather are things I hope to never forget. Unfortunately, as time goes on, remembering details can be difficult. This is doubly true for someone like me who forgets about things as soon as I…
-
Rely on Your Anchor: One Key to Adjusting Abroad
posted on
Everyone has an anchor. An interest, hobby, activity, or passion that tethers them to comfort. Some people have had the same anchor their whole life, and some spend years figuring out what it is. These anchors are essential as a mental reset, no matter where you are or what emotions you are feeling. Navigating Culture…
-
Finding Comfort During My First Week: Study Abroad in Argentina
posted on
As a first-generation student, I am familiar with the crossroad of staying within the comfort of home and diving into the unknown. About three years ago, I moved from Texas to Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, for college. It was an equally exhilarating and daunting opportunity. As I was deciding whether to study abroad, I found myself…
-
Study Abroad in Argentina: Connection through La Sobremesa
posted on
What is La Sobremesa? La sobremesa translates to “upon the table,” and refers to the Hispanic tradition of relaxing at the table after a meal. In English, there is no word that directly translates both the meaning and context of this word, which I believe is heavily tied to cultural differences. Too often in American…