Eating well on a budget can be difficult while studying abroad. Not only that, but you’re gonna be exhausted most nights, and not want to cook. My roommates and I succumbed many nights to a dinner of frozen pizzas and chicken nuggets. But it doesn’t have to be like this! Even if you and each of your roommates have one nutritious and delicious dish you can make really well, you can rotate who cooks and split grocery costs for a much happier wallet and stomach.

Have you ever considered taking a solo trip during your study abroad? Most people have not, but I would highly recommend trying it out. I know it sounds scary and maybe a little lonely, but, I promise, if you put in just a little effort, you will meet people! And eating at a restaurant alone isn’t as terrifying as you’d think. I also think solo travel is a great way to get to know yourself, become comfortable in your own company, and learn to be more confident. If you decide to take one of these trips, here is my advice! I traveled by myself to Vietnam while doing my study abroad in Korea.

Let me start my piece about fashion trends and shopping in Amsterdam by stating that, at the end of the day, fashion “trends” are by no means something to abide by—if anything, I try to steer clear from them. Fashion is about wearing what makes you feel good, regardless of anyone or everyone else saying your outfit looks bad. You by no means have to slot yourself into the fashion trends most sported by Amsterdammers.

Returning to the USA and settling in after an extensive travel day prompts reflection on my time abroad. As I sift through my camera roll, memories flood in—fun, challenges, and unforgettable moments. The post-abroad depression sets in, but I reassure my friends considering studying abroad next semester: the four months of this experience make it all the more precious. It's the impermanence that encourages us to cherish every moment, take risks, and step out of our comfort zones.

Embarking on a journey abroad is not merely about traveling; it's an opportunity to forge connections with new people. For many of us, the prospect of not having familiar faces from home alongside us is a reality. Instead, we find ourselves sharing living spaces with assigned roommates, ushering in a unique blend of risk, discomfort, and excitement. The experience of living with someone you don't know is inherently distinct, pushing you beyond your comfort zone and imparting valuable lessons in adaptability—a hallmark of studying abroad.

As the weeks drew closer to the conclusion of my study abroad adventure, a twinge of anxiety set in, fueled by the task of packing all of my prized belongings into suitcases. Admittedly an over-packer by nature, the looming challenge of reconciling the mementos collected abroad with my luggage capacity added a layer of stress to the winding-down phase of my journey.

During my study abroad experience, the excitement of exploring foreign lands often overshadowed the potential for finding wonder in the beauty of my host country, Italy. However, I consciously decided to dedicate a weekend solely to solo exploration, a decision that would later prove to be the highlight of my time abroad.

One of the enchanting aspects of studying abroad during the fall semester is the opportunity to experience Christmas festivities in different countries. Witnessing the adorned streets, and bustling markets, and indulging in unique pastries creates a stunning holiday ambiance. The excitement escalates, and the shopping possibilities seem endless. During my final excursion abroad for Christmas, I chose to explore the magical city of Prague.