My time abroad has been one of the most wonderful experiences I’ve ever had. My university and the Gilman Scholarship allowed me to experience a completely different culture, people and daily life, while still pursuing my academic goals. Studying abroad, above anything else, is a chance to grow as a student, a person, a friend and as someone who represents their country. It is an opportunity to learn how to step out of your comfort zone, while still learning your limits and staying loyal to your essence.
Studying abroad definitely pushes one to grow, and by that, you might also stumble. Many believe that when you move abroad, you start over, and that is true to an extent. You will, of course, experience new things and live in ways you’ve never done before, and yes, you have the chance to even be someone you’ve never been before. However, you will also make some mistakes and repeat patterns that you thought had ended, or at least stayed back home. Something I’ve confirmed during these months is that you never truly learn until you do something, and you will keep stumbling over the same thing again and again until you really understand what you’re doing wrong and what must be changed.
