I have several reasons for wanting to study abroad. I have always wanted to travel, and I figured that if any time was a good time to try, it would be now. Since I am a pre-med student, I would like to use the time I have available before medical school to its fullest. I also decided to study abroad because I wanted to push myself to get out of my comfort zone, meet new people, and experience new things. Before I left, I would have had to consider the location and the financial aspect of the trip. I chose to visit Oxford, England because I have family roots in the UK and would have loved to experience the culture there. Since it would be my first time traveling to Europe, I thought that this would be a good start, being a place with a different culture than America, but without anything too shocking. Because my study abroad experience would be challenging to finance, I worked hard to earn scholarships to aid in the costs that would come with it. In my suitcase I carried clothes and spare pounds, as well as chargers and an adapter for the UK outlets in Oxford. I am interested to see how the classes will be taught, but I am also nervous because this is a big step for me as far as getting out of my comfort zone goes. It is kind of scary being on another continent from home. I had to consider not backing down from any experiences that are offered to me on this great trip and not to waste it. I will hope to gain a new perspective on culture and new and improved social skills from my study abroad experience.