As I prepare to study abroad, I’m filled with so much excitement and anticipation. I’ll be spending 16 days in Europe, visiting Ghent, Belgium; London, UK; and Amsterdam, Netherlands. Having never been to Europe before, I knew I had to seize this opportunity when it came along.
I just graduated in May and had thought I missed my chance to study abroad—something I had always regretted. So, when I learned about a graduate credit course that included international travel, I didn’t hesitate. Through a mix of scholarships and hard work, I was able to save the money I needed to make this trip a reality.
Of course, I had to weigh whether the cost was worth the experience. While there’s no way to be completely certain, talking to students who had gone on this trip in the past gave me the reassurance I needed. Their stories helped me feel confident that the value of the experience far outweighs the price.
As my departure approaches, I’ve been eagerly researching everything from packing tips to travel essentials to the best places to eat and visit in each city. I’ve read over and over that “less is more” when it comes to packing—a challenge for me since I tend to overpack. But I’ve come to realize that anything I forget can be purchased while abroad, so I’m not stressing too much.
More than anything, I want to be present and soak up every moment of this journey. With only 16 days, I’m committed to seeing and doing as much as I can. I’m eager to learn about the cultures I’ll be immersed in and to see what everyday life looks like for the people who call these places home.
All in all, I’m beyond excited to share this experience with you and keep you updated on my very first trip to Europe!
