This is my last blog of the semester and one post can’t even begin to sum up everything I’ve learned and gotten to experience.
Personally, I’ve learned and implemented four main things/tips that may seem simple, but have completely changed my experience and influenced my growth.
- I’m used to listening to music almost everywhere I go, however, while here, I decided to walk around Marseille and other places in the South of France without music, especially when I was by myself. It may not sound like a life-changing tip, but immersing myself in the sounds of the ocean, people chatting, birds chirping, and more made a significant difference. It helped me appreciate where I was and truly live in the moment.
- When planning my travels, I spend a lot of time making lists of things to do, places to see, and where to eat. Initially, I would feel discouraged if I couldn’t check everything off my list. However, as I continued traveling, I realized that the short amount of time I spent in each city only allowed me to scratch the surface of what it had to offer. Instead of focusing on what I didn’t get to do, I changed my mindset to see it as a reason to go back. I learned that there’s always more to learn and experience.
- Going abroad was already a bit out of my comfort zone and at the start of the program I definitely found myself closing myself off socially. However, as the semester continued I was able to step more out of my comfort zone and say yes to things I never thought I would. One of the best decisions I made was going on a solo trip. I never considered it and thought I wouldn’t be able to do it. This experience made me realize how fun (and less scary) it actually is to step out of my comfort zone.
- The last thing I want to incorporate into my life is to not compare myself to others. I found myself comparing myself to people back home, people in my program, and especially other people who were abroad. Sadly, because I was doing this it took me a little while to fully appreciate everything. I can confidently say now that I wouldn’t exchange my experience with anyone else’s and I’m extremely grateful for everything I got to do.
Academically and professionally, I’ve learned valuable lessons on how to handle difficult group situations and understand different cultural norms. Although I still prefer the class structure back at Pitt, I know I want to take back the school habits I’ve developed here. Instead of spending hours studying, completing assignments, or trying to get ahead in my classes, I’ve learned to give myself some grace, relax, and take time for myself, whether it’s going for a walk or cooking myself a nice meal.
I couldn’t be more thankful and I can’t wait to tell friends and family back home all about it!