A little background…

It’s been a little less than a month since I have returned from Querétaro, Mexico. 6 weeks abroad really does change you in numerous ways (I know a little about that since I interned abroad in Shanghai 2 years ago.) People tend to believe that the “life-changing” experience begins when you arrive in your chosen country, but it actually begins when you decide to take the opportunity of immersing yourself completely in another’s culture. I found myself in that stage when I was at my first job out of college, Charles Schwab. I was so fortunate to have found such an amazing experience, but I realized that I needed the adventure that only a study abroad program could provide me. Determined to complete my McCombs BFP Global Track certificate with UT and enchanted by the chance to study abroad, I knew I had to do it and soon.

A few months later I found myself in Querétaro, Mexico with a host family, a new school and a new culture to get accustomed to. And, honestly, it’s one of the best decisions I have ever made.

 

Here are the top 3 things that I have gained because of my study abroad experience:

 

1.The ability to network with new people

Introducing yourself to new peers can be difficult in a foreign country and even in your own country because it combines a public space with your personal goals, ambitions, and personality. It can leave you feeling vulnerable. But studying abroad allowed me to create a name for myself with people who had never met me before. In the past I have been described as “quiet” or “sweet,” but here, in a new country with new people, I was able to move that aside and express who I was in that moment, driven and enthusiastic about what the coming weeks were going to bring. Learning and acquiring new skills with my group members from France, the U.K., and Canada made it easier to connect with those who I’ve now built my network with.

2.The perspective that risk-taking provides

Studying abroad is a risk in itself, but cliff-jumping and eating new foods are also on the spectrum. Risk-taking is driven by curiosity. Being curious or child-like is sometimes frowned upon, but it is one of the characteristics that many people seek in this new job industry. By welcoming curiosity you become aware of things you never saw before. You notice what makes a culture special and you begin to understand that being out of your comfort zone invites novelty into mundane situations.

3.The drive to learn a language

People learn in different ways–some get a tutor, some get an app, and some learn through immersion. In my case I chose to further my Spanish through immersion. Being a native Spanish speaker I know I have an edge compared to those without prior background with the language, but I can say, from experience, that it is hard to keep up a language when most of your friends don’t speak it. I believe that studying abroad rekindled my desire to continue practicing Spanish. I’m not sure if it was the atmosphere I was in or the culture that drove me to consistently grow in my speaking and reading ability, but I know that it has made a difference in my ambition. I’m even starting to read Harry Potter in Spanish.

Some closing remarks…

If you’re a student or someone who seeks for an experience like this, don’t hesitate to do it. There really is no time like the present!