Studying abroad was one of the best experiences of my life. I was able to learn and see more of a country that I didn't really know much about. I had heard of the land down under, and expected it to be full of spiders and snakes and kangaroos everywhere. I knew there were beaches, and surfer dudes, and cute animals, but Australia is so much more than that. It is a place that has beautiful cities that are full of life and has beautiful vast natural landscapes, places that make you ponder how a place this gorgeous could even exist. Whatever you are looking for, you can find in Australia.
I not only enjoyed the places I went, but I loved the people I met. Australians have this air about them that is laid back and friendly. Everyone I met was never in a rush, and always took the time to have a conversation with you. They are so generous as well, welcoming us into their country, and they were willing to share their experiences with us, helping us form a better picture of the place we were living. The relationships I made in Australia were so influential of my trip, and I hope to stay in touch with as many people I met as possible.
This trip helped me grow personally as well. For anyone who knew me before would say I was more introverted and nervous about meeting new people. But going to Australia and moving out of my comfort zone allowed me to face those fears and reach out to others. I knew a few fellow study abroaders that were going on this trip, but I was surrounded by new and interesting people and was able to grow within these relationships I made. I am no longer the introverted person I was, but am more comfortable in my own skin, and am able to make connections with others and build more meaningful relationships with the people around me.
I am also no longer afraid to try new things. While I was abroad my mindset was that I am only in this country for so long and I want to experience as much of it as possible, and I did just that. I took advantage of where I was, and accomplished almost everything I wanted to do, and said yes to some crazy adventures, some that are the best memories I have of my trip. Studying abroad showed me that I need to experience my home country even more. I need to have this mindset all the time. I've lived in Portland my whole life and there are still so many cool and adventurous things that I have just never done or seen. Studying abroad made me consider how I live my life, and what my priorities are. Obviously I have to still get work done, and be responsible, but I give myself more opportunities to explore and take advantage of the beautiful place I call home.
There are so many opportunities and programs out there to help you reach your goal destination, and study abroad. Specifically, one that helped me get to Australia was the Gilman International Scholarship. It helps students who need financial support to get where they want, because the people at Gilman recognize the importance studying abroad has on a person's education. It is a scholarship that is open to U.S. undergraduates that are receiving the Federal Pell Grant at a two or four year university. It is a great program, and provides you with many opportunities to expand your network when you return from studying abroad. I am so grateful for their support and want to help spread the word about their program. If you or someone you know is interested, their website is http://www.iie.org/programs/gilman-scholarship-program. Please look into and consider the Gilman Scholarship.
After reading and browsing my blog, I hope you have realized that studying abroad is a unique and once in a lifetime experience. It had such a profound impact on me, and I think that all students can benefit from the experiences they will have in any country abroad. It opens your mind to just how big and beautiful the world is, and makes you more considerate to the diversity of the world. It makes you a better person, and I will forever cherish the memories and lessons I learned in my second home of Fremantle, Australia.
Thanks for being along for the ride, blogosphere.
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