Wander With Lindsey

One of the biggest differences I’ve noticed about myself while studying abroad is how much more productive I’ve become. Part of it is the physical change in my environment, and also having to adapt to living a new lifestyle. Being surrounded by students from a different university has definitely pushed me to work harder academically. Since the faculty here in my program are different from the ones in the US, they have different standard and also expectations when it comes to classes. For example, you are expected to come to class wearing nicer clothes (you can’t show up to class in an old t-shirt and stained sweatpants). This has also pushed me to make sure I have enough time to get ready in the morning to look presentable and professional to go out in public.

It’s not just academic productivity either. Living abroad has helped me build structure in my personal life too, something I definitely lacked a bit in the US. Having to wake up early to catch the train or bus and leaving an hour before class forces me to stay on schedule. Ive developed healthier habits and I look back to what I was used to doing in the US and realize that I would opt to drive somewhere rather than walk 30 minutes. And now that i dont have another option (driving), I find myself choosing to walk when it is a 15 minutes walk vs. a 15 minute train ride.

Another change I’ve noticed is in the kitchen. Since I don’t have a meal plan anymore, there’s no backup option when I’m too tired to cook. Over time, I’ve gotten more creative with recipes and more intentional when grocery shopping. It’s kind of empowering to realize I can make good, healthy meals without relying on campus dining. I have found that I make a lot more conscious choices when it comes to choosing what I eat as well.

Overall, studying abroad has made me more independent, organized, and confident in ways I didn’t expect. I feel like I’ve gained a new sense of rhythm, being able to balance relationships, academics, as well as chores and self-care.