How Studying Abroad Changed My Life

Me 4 years ago: Netflix binges, frat parties, microwavable meals, had never been on an airplane.

Me today: 9 countries deep, traveling every weekend, aligned with my soul’s purpose, pro at airport security.

My first ever experience on an airplane was an international flight from the U.S. to England. This is where my semester abroad began, and also where my love for travel and adventure was born.

Prior to this, I was floating through life. Partying every weekend, laying around on my days off, and hanging out with some pretty shady people.

Studying abroad showed me what life, and what traveling, is really all about. It made me a better student and a better person.

I could go on and on about how every college student should spend at least one semester abroad, but I’ll save you the time.

Here is a list that I put together of some of the benefits of studying abroad…

(I saved the best for last)

Rich Perspective on Other Cultures

There are 7,000 identified languages in this world. 4,300 known religions. And over 250+ nationalities.

With 7.8 billion people on this planet, this provides a recipe for an infinite amount of different cultures and ideas.

Experiencing some of these different cultures first hand is something that no classroom is able to teach. Studying abroad taught me to be a student of the universe, a life-long learner, and a questioner of all things.

Unique Friendships

I studied abroad at Manchester Metropolitan University.

This university was a melting pot for an unbelievable amount of exchange students from all over the world.

During class, I sat next to students from South Korea, Australia, France, The Netherlands, etc.

Some of my relationships with these peers from all over the world blossomed into beautiful, unique friendships that I will be able to cherish for a lifetime.

My network nearly doubled after studying abroad.

Better Relationship with Yourself

College allows you to explore subjects in greater depth than you did in high school.

Studying abroad allows you to literally live on your own in a foreign country.

Talk about wanting more independence…

This experience gave me more responsibility and independence than I could’ve ever asked for.

I learned to trust myself and my instincts. I learned more about myself in those 6 months abroad than I did in my entire 4 years at college combined.

Studying abroad also equipped me with a much better sense of what money is worth in the real world… Which leads me to my next point.

Skillset to Travel on a Budget

How to book cheap flights.

How to search for affordable accommodation.

How to find a rental car company that doesn’t charge all those extra fees.

This is my passion. And it’s my goal to help you feel confident enough in yourself to book a vacation that you deserve and can actually afford.

Before this experience, I had never flown on an airplane… I rarely left my hometown.

My study abroad experience opened thousands of doors that I never knew existed.

I want to help others discover that same hidden fire within themselves. To live the life they truly desire.

So I’m going to spend my days doing what I enjoy, and I hope I can aid in both of our journeys around this beautiful, insane planet… on a budget!

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