Just do it

Going abroad can be quite a stressful decision; calculating graduating on time with the less demanding semester schedule, counting and budgeting every last penny in that decreasing savings account, and contemplating leaving behind that loving significant other at SMU for four months. The only way to ever get there is to stop thinking and just do it.

Worrying about graduating on time is pointless. If going abroad doesn't allow a full 15 hour schedule, make up that one class in J term or summer school, it is quite an easy fix. Also, the stress of putting a dent in a savings account should not be a setback, this is what that savings account is there for and this time abroad will be much more valuable than that new car or piece of jewelry that account is saving up for. And please, do not let leaving an "amazing relationship" behind  at SMU put a damper in the plans, because if it is actually that amazing, the significant other will support such an incredible journey and be waiting at the airport the second that airplane lands back in America. There is no other time in life to freely escape to a foreign country for four months to travel, meet new people, and find true independence, so why not take a leap of faith and see what happens!

Once the decision is made and the flights are booked, next is finding a place to live. If living with a host family is an option, DO IT. Going abroad means embracing the culture, and what better way to do that than living with locals. The family will provide authentic food, housing, and the opportunity to experience that country's lifestyle as they integrate their guest into their everyday routine. Getting to know the family is only beneficial, as they will include you in cultural traditions and activities that tourists might never get to be a part of. And lastly, living with a host family offers comfort when feelings are lonely, friendships that will last a lifetime, and a home in that country with open doors forever in the future.

Adjusting to a new culture can be overwhelming, especially if there is a language barrier, but give it time. Go to a cafe, get a coffee or a two dollar glass of wine, and try to have a conversation with the waiter. Making friends with locals is key, as they always spill the best hole in the wall restaurants or bars around the city no tourist would ever find on their own. Always remember it is the effort that counts, and attempting to communicate in the native language always wins gold stars and sometimes discounts. The locals appreciate tourists trying to be apart of their culture, and they will be sure to make that appreciation known.

So with that, pack those suitcases, get that passport, and fly to that country of choice before any second thoughts can interfere. Do not think about what is going on at school or about the boulevard next weekend, because it just doesn't quite compare to having Paris a 50 dollar and two hour flight away. Going abroad is the opportunity of a lifetime, and nothing should hold anyone back from just doing it. There will be no regrets upon the return, only memories and stories that everyone that didn't go abroad will be jealous of forever.