I was always confident in wanting to study abroad. I had never left the country before starting college and with Alabama's resources I was excited about the opportunity to come. Although, as this semester approach I became more and more fearful to leave the campus and people I had grown to love. I was comfortable and had to decide to take the leap of faith and I am so happy I did.
I passed by so much history every single day. I heard different languages every single day. I met someone new almost every single day. The new experiences I have had will forever remind me of the large world I have yet to discover.
I discovered a newfound love for nature and loved to explore new parks and places. I also learned an appreciation for my time that I spent outside. I explored new habits and found that nature can have such a peaceful effect in times filled with stress.
Overall I changed much more than I ever thought I would. I expected to return to the U.S. and continue with my life fairly unaffected. I couldn't have been more wrong. While I am the same, I also have such a new outlook on my goals. My perspective has grown in such a large way and I have only started to realize the impact that this experience has had on my life. I couldn't be happier that I made this decision. I patiently await to see how I grow and change and am excited to experience life at Alabama after such an impactful experience.