What Andy Bernard Said…
Date
April 17, 2026
I’ve been home for a month and here are my largest take aways:
Yes, I have changed! For the better. And so have the people around me! It takes both parties to recognize things aren’t going to go back to exactly how they were before you left for abroad. I had a conversation with a friend after I got home, and the first thing she said to me was “I am so excited to get to know the new Paige” which is not something I ever thought of. I have picked up new mannerisms and fun slang, all of which is a peaceful reminder of the lovely months abroad I had. With that, it is good to recognize the people around me also may have picked up new mannerisms, or do stuff differently. I have taken it all with an open mind, and am enjoying who I have become and who the people around me are!
The value of studying abroad at home is not just about having credits transferring back home. The value is also appreciating the experiences you have, and bringing that attitude home. In my four and a half months abroad, I found myself in the mood to do everything and see it all and take in Dunedin and New Zealand, because I recognized I only had so much time there. Coming home, I realize the same thing about my home university and my experience there. When I go back, I will have a year and a half, only three semesters, till I am a college graduate. What would happen to my college experience if I kept my mentality of taking it all in and experiencing the things surrounding me at school, because in reality I only have so much time in this space with the friends and professors I do! So, now I am going home ready to do everything, because I am lucky to realize this before it is too late and I am done with school.
Studying abroad brought me closer with my identity, with what I consider home, and overall what I believe my purpose in life is. With that, I must remember what I learned and apply it to all aspects of my life. I am a large fan of the hit show The Office, and Andy once said “I wish there was a way to know you're in the good old days before you've actually left them.” Well, here is the reminder you are in them right now!
These pieces were created by student contributors. The views and opinions expressed are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Arcadia Abroad.