Student Bloggers
Study Abroad Reflection Part 1: The Final Week
Date
December 16, 2019
Currently Studying at: University of Glasgow, Scotland
Homeschool: Elon University
Picture this: It’s the end of August, you’re anxiously awaiting your departure date for your 4 months in a foreign country.
Fast forward a few weeks, and you’re there.
Ok, got the picture?
Now, blink.
You now have 5 days left in Scotland.
In the weeks leading up to this final stretch, I’ve been so ready to come home. It’s that end-of-the-semester-slump feeling. At the same time, I’ve been feeling guilty about wanting this journey to end.
I’m not going to act like it was the “best 4 months of my life,” because that would be a complete lie. It has, however, been the most challenging and rewarding 4 months of my life so far. I got off to a rough start, but after adjusting and getting myself into a routine, my experience changed for the better. I opened up and made new friends, joined clubs, learned how to cook (!!!!!), and overall, did the best I could to turn my negativity into positivity.
I have been to six countries (including Scotland), nine major cities (including Glasgow), and allowed myself to enjoy nature (surprising to most who know me) in the Highlands of Scotland. I took three classes in lecture halls that fit 250 to 500 students. I have felt every single emotion I could possibly feel. I came to Scotland knowing no one, and now I’m leaving with memories and friends that I’ll always have.
I completely stepped out of my comfort zone, and I am so proud of not only myself, but of everyone who also decided they were going to leave the comfort of their home university for a semester, and of everyone who is going to do the same thing I did in the future.
It quite literally was the best of times and the worst of times, and now I’m going to go into my last week with a full heart knowing I did it. I’m going to try those last few restaurants I’ve been wanting to go to. I’m going to soak up every last bit of Glasgow, including the rain and wind.
Here’s to the end of the craziest semester.
Check out Part 2 of this blog post here.