Bon Voyage! On the Way to My Semester Abroad

That was the title of my journal entry as I headed to Washington Dulles International Airport in August 2019 about to embark on my study abroad experience. My parents were about to drop me off, and I had no clue what to expect. I had no idea what I was walking into. Had I actually signed up for this program? Was my name even on the list? Did I have my passport? Who would I meet while studying abroad in college?

Looking back at that entry, I’m honestly shocked. And I quote, “I feel really excited and honestly not that nervous.” But I know I was nervous. At the same time, I had this feeling—this deep certainty—that the study abroad experience ahead would be special. I knew this semester was exactly what I needed. So, while excitement dominated, the doubt crept in too.

I had just wrapped up a great summer—interning, taking classes, and spending time with friends. I didn’t feel like I was missing out by not going back to campus. Instead, I couldn’t wait to be living in Switzerland and traveling across Europe.

They say experience is the best teacher. Some believe traveling is one of the best ways to learn—not by cramming for an exam or memorizing facts, but by absorbing the world around you. You don’t even realize what you’re learning at the time. You just take it all in, one place at a time.

Everyone learns in different ways, and I hope you find what works best for you. But I do know this: being placed in an unfamiliar country, surrounded by strangers, thousands of miles from everything you know, will teach you things—things you can’t even put into words. My study abroad experience opened my eyes to new places, people, and cultures. It showed me how much I didn’t know, how vast the world is, and how much life exists beyond what I had ever seen. It made me feel small in the best way—like I could be anything, do anything, go anywhere.

That’s why I love traveling so much. It reveals the endless possibilities life has to offer. It reminds us that beauty exists everywhere, in all forms—we just have to open our eyes to see it. And sometimes, that takes putting your own two feet in a place you’ve never been before.

Why I Chose to Study Abroad in College

I always knew I wanted to study abroad in college if given the opportunity. Fortunately, my university had an incredible semester-long program in Switzerland that was extremely popular. Former students had presented on it during my sophomore year, and I knew I was interested. At the time, I thought I’d do the business-focused spring semester. As a PR major unsure of my exact career path, I figured this option would be a great fit.

I applied for the spring semester of 2020, got accepted, and was beyond excited. But then, I learned something: the fall semester included a month in Africa. I had assumed both programs were the same, but they weren’t. The fall semester was open to all majors and had a stronger focus on social change and leadership. Already involved in a leadership program at school, I had a strong interest in traveling to Africa. Taking a chance, I reached out to the program director, unsure if space was even available. The uncertainty lingered—I had no idea if I’d get in.

When the acceptance email arrived, I was so happy. I was in. 

Departure Day: Meeting My Study Abroad Group for the First Time

On the day of departure, my parents and I arrived at the airport much earlier than required, which I’d definitely recommend. We had lunch together, a final sendoff before three months apart, then, it was time to head to the meeting spot.

I remember spotting my new RAs holding up signs for the program near passport and ticket check. Slowly, my future classmates and travel companions began appearing with their families. Some arrived together, having signed up with friends. Others saw familiar faces and immediately gravitated toward them. I knew one person going on the trip, and thankfully, we had been texting.

As I waited, I sat next to a girl and her mom. Our moms started chatting, and soon enough, we joined in. That’s how I met Regan—my very first friend abroad. We said our goodbyes to our parents together, navigated security side by side, and grabbed dinner at Subway before our long-haul flight. From that moment on, we were inseparable—traveling every weekend together with our growing group of friends. The only time we split up was when our families came to visit. Luckily, they chose the same weekend.

Why You Should Study Abroad in College

1. You won’t regret it. It’s like going down a scary roller coaster or forcing yourself to work out when you don’t feel like it—you’re always glad you did once you do.
2. You can say you did it! It’s a huge accomplishment, and it takes a lot of courage.
3. You get to live in a new place. This opens up so much. It introduces you to different ways of life, perspectives, and experiences.
4. It gives you a sense of freedom. For so long, you’ve grown up in one place, but study abroad in college allows you to redefine your identity in a whole new environment. The world is your oyster.
5. You get to travel while studying for your degree! What could be better than that? One of the best parts of study abroad in college is that you’re not just taking classes—you’re also exploring new destinations.
6. You meet so many new people. Not just other students, but locals, travelers, and people from all walks of life. Your network expands, and you gain a new appreciation for human connection.

If you’re considering how to study abroad in college but feel nervous, trust me—you’re not alone. Everyone has questions, but the experience is worth it. Study abroad in college is truly a life-changing experience, and I hope my journey inspires you to take the leap!

If you’re unsure what to pack—I’ve got you covered in future posts. I’ll dedicate an entire post to it. But for now, just know this: Everyone is nervous at first. And everyone finds their way. You will make friends, you will create lifelong memories, and you will grow in ways you never expected.

If you have the means and the ability to make it work with your schedule—I highly, highly recommend it. Here is the site to the Linking Lives Study Abroad Program that I did through Virginia Tech if you’d like to learn more. It was truly one of the best experiences in my life.

All in all,

My dad always says this to me, and I think he got it from my grandma. So, I’ll leave you with one of my favorite quotes, passed down through generations:

“Wherever you go, there you are.”

No matter where you are in the world, there YOU are. So make yourself a good place to be. Then, you can fully soak up and enjoy your surroundings. Go in with a positive attitude, an open heart, and a smile—you’re all set.

Oh, and if you’re wondering about a cute, comfy outfit to wear on your debut to your study abroad program and long flight—my go-to (and what I wore) is a pair of your favorite black leggings, a cute black-and-white striped tank top, slip-on sneakers, and a jean jacket. 

It’s cute, comfy, and stylish without overdoing it. Plus, you can take the jacket on and off depending on whether you’re hot or cold. Me, I’m always freezing–especially on a flight. Wishing you the BEST of luck on your study abroad adventure and so, so excited for you!