The End

My first time studying abroad was such an amazing experience for personal growth and global education. I feel as though I’ve grown so much in the past 5 weeks. I learned how little I actually know about the world and about Spain’s history. Before my time in Spain I didn’t know much about its relatively recent political troubles, such as Franco’s dictatorship, their transition to democracy, and current economic issues causes emigration and high levels of unemployment. After a two day lecture about Spain’s political history I more aware of its past and context but I also realize how little I pay attention to foreign affairs. When I return to the States, I will be sure to put more emphasis on being more globally minded and read news articles about current events. I’m even thinking about taking a political science or international affairs course at Northeastern, or at the very least a course on Spanish history.

At first I was very nervous about studying abroad. I thought of all the things that could go wrong and thought about how it was my first time being away from home for so long. In the beginning I was very homesick and even after the first week I felt out of my comfort zone. But I just kept trying to enjoy the moment and telling myself I would be back home in a few weeks. Although it was hard for me I honestly believe it was good for me to feel that way. Being out of your comfort zone teaches you so much about yourself and how you deal with it. But most importantly it gives you a way to empathize with people in the same situation. The United States is a country where many people immigrate to and in Boston in particular there are many foreigners who probably feel out of their comfort zone. I was never rude to these foreigners before but I never went out of my way to make them feel welcome or more comfortable. After experiencing for myself what it’s like to feel like an outsider I want to make sure no immigrant or tourist feels that way in my home city.
I would like to study abroad again in a different country but if not possible I will definitely continue to travel. I’d love to see South America and how the countries of South America differ from one another despite being so close in proximity. It will also be interesting to see differences in the Spanish language in Spain and Latin American countries.
There is no single greatest benefit of studying abroad. To try and narrow down all the benefits into one clear answer is impossible and wouldn’t do the experience of studying abroad justice. My time abroad got me out of my comfort zone, allowed me to bond with other Northeastern students I wouldn’t have met otherwise, and made me have a greater appreciation for other cultures and their traditions and customs.
If you are interested in studying abroad, just go for it. If you aren’t sure whether you’re ready for a full semester abroad try a dialogue first. It’s long enough time that you feel immersed but not too long that you feel stuck if you don’t like it. It’s going to be hard and a lot of work but nothing can replace it. Just stay positive and take it all in stride and you will feel like a changed person- in the best way possible!