What I Learned Studying Abroad in London

Finals are quickly approaching, which means this semester is coming to an end. I honestly can not believe I even wrote that sentence, because there was a time, I was thinking that I would not even make it to London. Now, I must get ready to say goodbye. I am going to use this last post to share some of the highlights of my experience and the lessons I have learned.

I have learned to take more risks. I used to be a very fearful person, who needed to think through every possible option and weigh every possibility. This was a draining way to live. Now, I’m not saying I throw all caution to the wind, but I can now go out with no plan and enjoy myself. It can be fun to go out with no plan and explore a new area. That was something that I could not do before.

I have learned to enjoy my own company. I started taking myself out to do certain activities that I found enjoyable, specifically going to see musicals. Now, the theater is not everyone’s favorite thing, but I was not going to let this stop me. London’s theater scene is amazing, and I saw around five musicals by myself, and I enjoyed every second of it. I am hoping to carry this practice into other activities in the U.S.

I have learned that distance is not as scary as it seems. I am an ocean away from home, which is very far, but I would have gone further if possible. We live in a world where we can be in constant contact with people of importance, and it is no longer a factor in deciding where you can go. I do not know how much further I could get, but I’m excited to keep traveling and find out.

This semester has been a dream. I would not have traded this for anything in the world. If you want to study abroad, do it. I am so unbelievably grateful for this experience, and I now have lifelong memories and friends to take with me. I hope to continue traveling and exploring this massive world, and studying abroad was an amazing start.