Prepare your thoughts for discussion

Choose the quote that represents how you are feeling right now about studying abroad. Do you have a personal story to which this quote applies? What did people in your life have to say about your choice to participate in a study abroad program?

"I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life, and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing that I wanted to do.” - Georgia O’Keeffe.

            I’m very excited to have the opportunity to go abroad and to be part of such an outstanding program—I get to stay in a homestay and immerse myself in the culture, I get to do a month-long independent study project on the topic of my choice, I get to spend time in an area of the world that I normally wouldn’t travel to on my own—but at the moment, I’m very nervous about many aspects of this experience. When I tell people what I’ll be doing next semester, the normal reaction is, “Wow, I’d never be able to do that! You’re brave!” or, “Be careful!” I attribute most of this to ignorance about the host country or preconceived notions people have about Africa in general, but it also makes me wonder if I’ll be able to get used to being in a foreign place and away from my comfortable, familiar life.

            I had essentially the same feelings about coming to college, and it was rough—but I’m still here! When I first arrived I felt completely lost and terrified of having to stay in this place I didn’t much enjoy. Instead of letting this feeling keep me locked in my room, I tried to join as many clubs and go on as many school trips as possible, as well as set personal goals on which to concentrate instead of concentrating on my unwillingness to accept change in my life. Through my freshman year I learned a lot about myself because I tried so many new things, things I never would have tried had I stayed in my comfort zone. I know that the fear of change is what pushed me to try so hard and work toward change.

            I think my nervousness about study abroad will force me to make the most of it, no matter what happens. I will try not to let my shyness, fear of change, or any other reason keep me from getting the full experience of my study abroad.

“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear.” –Katherine Paterson