Back from Scotland!
I am back from Scotland! While I loved every moment of my time abroad, I was also excited to return home and share everything I learned. The second I landed in the Atlanta airport, I immediately felt more comfortable and more in control and aware of my surroundings. Still, I miss the time I spent with my friends abroad and the thrill of exploring a new city.
Looking back on the experience, I can tell that it has changed me for the better. Before going abroad, I was a very anxious person, and new situations and the unknown often scared me. But being in Scotland pushed me to face uncertainty every single day, and over time, it stopped giving me the same anxiety. Instead, it showed me that I’m capable of more than I realized, and that I can adapt to almost any environment.
The trip also gave me a new perspective on culture. I became more aware of how Americans are perceived by the rest of the world, and I now have a deeper appreciation for certain parts of American culture. I especially value the friendliness of Southern Americans and the comfort of daily routines that I used to take for granted.
If I could change one thing about my trip, it would be how I planned for water. In the U.S., water fountains are everywhere, and most people carry water bottles. In Scotland, it was much harder to find water, and ice was even rarer. Since we spent so much time walking and dancing, I often felt dehydrated. Some of my friends had reusable Brita bottles they could fill anywhere, and I now realize that would have been a smart addition to pack.
Overall, I’m so grateful for the chance to study abroad. The trip gave me perspective not only on the world but also on myself. It truly was one of the highlights of my college career!