Studying abroad was never something I imagined myself doing while I was in college.

I remember being in a class and listening to different testimonies describing how it was the “best experience of their lives” and how they “wished they could go back.” Meanwhile, I sat in class rolling my eyes at them.

However, that changed the summer after my junior year. Two of my friends decided to study abroad in Ireland. Although I may have not given it much thought earlier, hearing about their experiences and seeing pictures sparked my interest.

I began to attend informational meetings for the English department’s study abroad program in England. I was intrigued with the idea of going abroad for five weeks, but I still was hesitant in my decision.

I kept making different excuses. I told myself, “I should spend the summer working instead of going abroad.” I also tried to let my fear of heights and planes keep me from fully committing to the program.

One day, my parents sat me down and told me I had to study abroad that summer. To be honest, it scared me more than anything, but I knew I needed them to make the decision for me. If I left it up to myself, I would back out at the last minute.

The days leading up to the trip, it still did not register with me that I was leaving. As I was packing, I did not feel nervous or excited…I felt nothing.

That all changed when I landed in England. The bus from the airport to the manor completely changed my mind about the experience. It was surreal to look out the bus window and witness a complete change of scenery.

The time I spent in England was unlike anything I have ever experienced. Never in my life would I have expected to have an opportunity like that. I challenged myself to go outside of my comfort zone, and I ended up learning a lot about myself. I got to wander around England, Ireland and France with some of the greatest people I have ever met.

As I reflect on the entire experience, there is nothing I would not do to go back again. Doing so allowed me to see the world in a completely different light. We got to witness a difference of culture and tradition, which is why I feel so adamant about students studying abroad during their college experience.

It does not necessarily have to be internationally either. There are so many places here in the United States that is worth traveling and seeing. I know there are many reasons why people cannot study abroad, but if resources and funds present themselves do not hesitate when making your decision.

Nicole Kink is a senior English language arts major. She can be reached at 581-2812 or nekink@eiu.edu.