Studying abroad might be an experience you never knew you needed. You will find yourself on a journey filled with opportunities for growth, adventure, and self-exploration. It can seem scary to go and live in another area for a couple of months when you are so used to the bubble and comfort zone you have created in your home institution. However, this experience pushes you to grow in ways you never imagined. You’ll likely discover new passions, develop independence, and gain a broader worldview.

         What does it mean to truly feel at home in a new country? For me, the answer has been the journey of exploring and finding friends that want to do the same. After a few days in Ireland, the initial jet lag and uncertainty of making friends began to fade. I’m starting to feel more comfortable in my student housing, which is conveniently located in Dublin.

When I first got to Germany two weeks ago, I was the first person to walk into the IES Abroad room in Frankfurt where all of the students would meet. I sat down and slowly took in my surroundings while a sense of dread settled: I didn’t know German, I had no friends, and I was in an entirely new country. In other words, I was sleep deprived, nervous, and finally out of my comfort zone. Within a few hours, every worry and fear that had been creeping up on me during my 24 hours of travel faded: I was in a new place! I had a new language to learn!