Do you ever wish you could travel the world but think you’re too young? I used to think that too, yet here I am, traveling across Europe at just fifteen. Since starting my study abroad in France, I’ve learned so much about different cultures and explored so many new places. I’ve explored the Pyrenees, the Mediterranean, medieval forts, and even ventured into other countries. I’ve seen the largest brick cathedral, strolled along the Spanish coast, wandered through Christmas markets in Paris, admired the beautiful capital of Toulouse, and even toured churches in French countryside towns!
By discovering so many incredible places through my exchange program, I’ve also discovered more about myself and the world. Exploring numerous places also comes with exploring many new cultures, and this is really important to learn as a person! Being culturally aware and worldly makes you smarter and better at talking to different kinds of people. I’ve learned so much from so many different people. About new subjects, and even about things I already knew, but seeing them from a completely different perspective. And of course, it is a lot of fun to look at the differences between cultures, such as how important respect is in France. When getting on a bus or entering a store, you say “Bonjour/Bonsoir,” and when you leave you say “Merci, au revoir.” In school, you even wait for your teacher to tell you to sit when entering a class!
Beyond learning about different cultures, I’ve met so many amazing people. Every exchange student I’ve talked to always emphasizes the experience of meeting new people. Whether they studied abroad in the summer or the school year, it is always something that is brought up. I’ve made connections from all over the world, no matter where we’re from or what language we speak. Even though I’ve only been here for four months, I’ve already learned so much about myself. Studying abroad feels like starting a new life, you’re free from everyone’s expectations, and you begin to discover who you really are. You also get a glimpse of different opportunities around the world, which expands your ideas about your future and what’s possible. Through this experience, I’ve developed a clearer sense of what I’m interested in. My passion for traveling, meeting new people, and even the beginnings of an idea of what I want to study. Along with all of this, I’ve noticed myself becoming a much more mature and independent person. I’ve figured out how to navigate a new city without being fluent in the language, manage my finances, and take care of myself—a skill that even adults struggle with.
I wouldn’t be the same person without this experience, which is why I will always recommend studying abroad. You will learn many lessons and make many memories that you will keep with yourself forever. Don’t be afraid to reach out to [email protected] if you have any questions!
