The Awakening – Oxford Fall 21

My heart racing, my palms sweating, my tears swelling, and my breath panting. Those were my visceral reactions during take-off. The culmination of anxiety, restlessness, excitement, and relief flooded my senses during that take-off from the Dallas airport. I felt incredibly small thinking about how I have never needed a passport before, hardly been in an airplane before, and certainly never left the country before. I genuinely thought that my study abroad experience wouldn’t even make it off the runway– but there I was flying through the air watching as my comfortable little world grew smaller and smaller. There was no turning back — I was diving head-first into the unknown. 

I like to give designated words to separate seasons in my life, and the word “awaken” has felt like the most accurate description. During these past few months, I have felt a new version of myself awaken. One example of this is my ability to adapt to my new environment. I felt a new wave of independence and self-reliance. From the simple things like navigating the streets of Oxford by myself to planning out my meals and grocery shopping. Additionally, the opportunity to travel to Spain over Thanksgiving break also taught me that I am capable of taking care of myself in a completely different culture. 

I have also learned that I am responsible for creating my experiences. There have been numerous instances where plans have fallen apart, trains have been missed, and feelings have been hurt. It takes flexibility to roll with the unexpected and make the most of the experience given to me. A bit of excitement can also go a long way. Even if I wasn’t particularly excited about a certain museum or group activity, I learned that trying to take a new perspective allowed me to approach everything in a new light. One way I approached an activity with a new perspective was by enjoying the time spent with new friends. 

The relationships formed during this time in Oxford have also contributed to my awakening. The shared experiences between this group have brought us closer together. Sharing our joys and hardships has comforted me while being away from my family. I have learned how to be a better friend by extending and receiving vulnerability, forgiveness, and grace. 

Studying abroad has also given me the space to reflect on the trajectory of my major. My plan before studying abroad was to start nursing school in the spring semester, yet the time given here in Oxford has allowed me to think deeply about how I intend for my time at ACU to unfold. In my case, I slowly came to the realization that I had other desires other than nursing that would better suit my interests and I changed my major! 

I would not have this unique experience–an awakening to better understand myself– without study abroad. I am grateful for the new friendships that have molded me, the new perspectives I’ve gained, and the new trajectory of my major. 

Julia and I exploring Oxford