For the Spring semester of 2019, I decided to take a leap of faith and make the journey to Oxford, England. My department in Journalism and Mass Communication was offering classes and scholarships to students like me to spend a semester in Europe. I still had a lot of questions, but I quickly realized that this unique opportunity to study abroad could not have come at a better time. Things were falling right into place.
Upon my arrival to the mysterious and historical city of Oxford, I was nervous for more reasons than one. First, I had stepped into this adventure without previous connections or friendships with any of my fellow ACU students on the trip. Second, I would be learning a whole new place and culture that came with its own new people.
However, this experience pushed me out of my comfort zone so dramatically and the experience led me to learn new things about people and myself. I became more confident in my ability to problem-solve. I gained a better sense of direction. I learned that it’s okay to ask for help. I also realized how much kindness there is to be found in humankind today, regardless of what you see on the news.
I made many unexpected friends throughout the journey. Our study abroad group quickly bonded over the difficulties and traveling triumphs while away from home and all that we knew. We were foreigners together.
I traveled to many countries on cheap Ryanair flights with minimal luxuries. I got a chance to plan trips to different areas in Spain, Sweden, Wales, Austria, Greece, and Italy. Everyone always asks me which place was my favorite, but they were incomparable. Each country is so unique with jaw-dropping and scenic views, from snow-covered mountain ranges to crystal clear waters and white-sandy beaches. Each country offered delicious specialty dishes, like Swedish meatballs and Austrian Apfel streusel.
During my time in Oxford, I took 17 hours of courses. Initially, I was worried about the workload that I had chosen to take on, but I successfully completed all my courses with a 4.0 semester GPA while traveling most weekends, so it can be done! I also had time to spend at Hillsong Oxford church. I attended Sunday church services and made local friends through their small group program that met throughout the weeks. Some of my favorite memories of my time spent in Oxford, in between studying, are my runs through the beautiful University Parks and sitting down with a good book or friend in a coffee shop, enjoying a cappuccino.
Everyone says it, but studying abroad really has changed my life. Growth takes place outside of comfort zones, in the uncomfortable. Sure, there were hardships and struggles, but with that came learning and growth. The experience of studying abroad has helped me to become a more confident and braver person. Studying abroad has also given me new friends and pen pals across the pond. It was an experience of a lifetime, and I’m so glad I didn’t pass this one up.
