Studying Abroad Can Change You (Topic of Choice)

83 days, 9 countries, and millions of amazing memories later I am back in good old Nebraska. It's easy to say that studying abroad was one of the most amazing life changing experiences I have ever had. A year ago the plan I had for my life was going in a completely different direction. Things changed and I decided it was now or never to jump on the opportunity to study abroad. I didn't know what to expect or how I was going to feel, I hadn't even flown on a plane before.

Now that I am back in the United States i've realized how much studying abroad has changed me. First of all I feel more independent. If you would have told me that I would be traveling anywhere in Europe by myself I would have thought you were crazy. My last 5 days abroad I spent traveling in Ireland by myself. It sounded scary but by the time came I was so excited and ready to go! I survived traveling alone in a foreign country and now I feel as if I am ready to graduate and go out into the world and see where it might take me.

Taking in the view of the ocean in Galway Ireland.

Enjoying the view at the Cliffs of Moher. 

Something else I realized while studying abroad was that you need to enjoy every moment.  You don't always need to be on the go or doing something. Stop and take in everything around you! One of the most peaceful places I went was in the Tatra Mountains in Slovakia. The smells and the sites were outstanding and I could have sat there for hours. By coming to this realization it also helped me to learn I don't always have to have a plan. Which was a relief at times. By not having a plan it allowed for many opportunities to happen. While exploring many cities I often just wandered around and stumbled upon statues or buildings I never would have seen by following a map and going to a planned place.

Stream up in the Tatra Mountains.

I wouldn't trade this experience for anything in the world!  One of the best parts of the trip was the friendships I made with people from all over the world. This was the best three months of my life and I look forward to going back!

The amazing group of people I got to experience this opportunity with!

P.S. I have now seen more of Europe than the United States.
Countries I visited:
Czech Republic (lived in Olomouc but travelled all over it)
Italy (Rome, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Venice)
Germany (Dresden)
Poland (Krakow)
Slovakia (Poprad)
Hungary (Budapest)
England (London)
Ireland (Dublin, Galway, and several small villages)
Austria (Vienna)
(Flew out of Switzerland and Belgium)