By Hannah Akerly– 1851 Staff
To be young and living in London, England. The most timeless four months of my life and the scariest decision I ever made in my life, but also the most rewarding. Traveling across the ocean and unpacking my bags to make memories with people I have never met before. Knowing these people would become a major part of my life and yet when I stepped on that plane at Logan airport, I had no idea what was to come. Here’s the truth about studying abroad:
- Make that money honey!
When I left home, I had saved up more than $5000 and when I got to London and started spending, I realized that wasn’t enough. I would recommend saving closer to $6500. This also depends on where you decide to study but of course; I chose a country where the exchange rate was royally messed up. Working two jobs all summer at times didn’t seem like it was worth it, but in the end; I survived a whole four months in a different country all by myself.
- The leg workout to end all leg workouts
Transportation costs money no matter where you go so I would recommend investing in a great pair of sneakers. When I went into the city; I would walk nearly four miles a day to save on transportation. So whip out those Asics and hit the town! You’ll be happy you bought them.
- Life-changing experience
My life has truly never been the same since going abroad. It was a big decision and it came with even bigger rewards. I learned so much about myself in my time away. Being the homebody that I am, I learned that I could do something I never thought I could. I learned that I can travel the world all on my own and live life knowing I can do this. Not to mention, you make friends that become family because you spend every second of every day together, and you wouldn’t trade that for anything.
- Travel as much as possible
Flights may seem like they are the most expensive thing ever but I booked flights to France that were $50. Going abroad isn’t all about studying in a different country, it’s also about learning the culture and immersing yourself in every country you possibly can. I traveled to more places in 4 months than I ever thought I would. And the best advice I can give for this is to remember that money will return but the time won’t. So book that flight!
- It may not be the education you expected
I did not expect the education I received when I signed up for my classes back in spring. Education in England is a lot different from education in the states. I would have fewer assignments but they would be weighted more in my overall grade. I found I would often be teaching myself outside of the classroom, but the education I received is still one I found fulfilling and I learned so many things I wouldn’t have if I were still in the states.
