Differences in culture, environment and societal values can create anxiety. Little things you don’t think about suddenly stand out to you, such as the food or getting used to the metric system. Language barriers, a different education system and settling into new surroundings are enough to make anybody’s head spin. Pressure to get good grades combines with integrating into a new society and making the most of a short experience.
The decision to travel in a foreign country is a courageous one because so much is left unknown. It might turn out to be the best or the worst time in a young person’s life. Some students go abroad for a semester or a year, and others may spend the entirety of their undergraduate, graduate or post-graduate years in a foreign country. Students who go for a shorter period of time are usually under more pressure to familiarize themselves with the environment as quickly as possible.
Going abroad is an adventure that requires courage. There is more to the world than what lies in your part of it and getting out there to experience some of the wonders of a different country gives you a new pair of eyes and broadens your perspective. So take the challenge and experience life in a different part of the world.
Toluwani Adekunle can be reached at [email protected].
