The Romanticism of Study Abroad
By: Meghan Weil
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received is to live somewhere new in my twenties. It doesn’t matter where or for how long – what matters is that you do it. You have to put yourself somewhere you’ve never been, within a community of people you’ve never met, and see how you navigate the unknown. It’s an experience that pushes you beyond your comfort zone, forcing you to rely on yourself in ways you might never have before. Although this sounds daunting, I can’t think of anything more worthwhile.
Taking this advice to heart, I, like many other college students, decided to take the leap over an ocean and move to Europe for four months. I spent the 2024 fall semester studying abroad in Florence, Italy, and it was undoubtedly the best four months of my life. Every day felt like a new experience or a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and I never wanted it to end. Studying abroad is an endeavor unique from anything else you’ll do in your college career and, quite possibly, your life. It’s a time filled with adventure, education, and good food. It sounds like a dream come true, and trust me, it is.
The Cultivation of the Study Abroad Dream
If you’re anything like me, the idealized appeal of studying abroad has been sold to you since the moment you set foot on campus for your college tour. The glossy brochures and carefully curated Instagram posts make it seem like an essential part of the college experience. It promises personal growth, cultural immersion, and unforgettable adventures. Marist University prides itself on its overseas programs for students, and honestly, it was a main selling point for me. According to the Open Doors Report, Marist is the national leader for academic year programs abroad. This is not a title every university or college has the privilege of wearing. That being said, there is an emphasis on global education being woven into the school’s identity; making study abroad feel more like a rite of passage than a casual choice. When you hear students talk about their semesters in Florence or see alumni reflect on how those months shaped them, it reinforces the idea this experience is not just worthwhile – it’s transformative. This felt like an opportunity too good to pass up.
While Florence, Italy, undoubtedly remains the most popular destination for Marist students studying abroad, the possibilities truly are endless. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the artistic heart of Paris, this freedom opens up a world of creative potential, allowing you to design a semester uniquely yours. Studying abroad offers the unique opportunity to customize your experience around what excites you most, and what’s better than that? You're not just attending a semester abroad; you’re crafting an experience that will shape your worldview.
The Allure of Studying Abroad
The magnetism of studying abroad lies in the mystery of possibility. I knew I wanted to go to Florence to experience its history, food, and fashion. I felt like I could count on those three things to exceed my expectations because of how deeply each of them is ingrained in Florence's identity; therefore, there was no better place to immerse myself. Leading up to my departure, there was no way to truly grasp or envision the full scope of what my experience would entail. It was impossible to predict all that lay ahead of me, and that is where the allure of mystery comes into play. How would I adapt to culture shock and unfamiliar daily norms? How are my friends and I going to navigate new cities every weekend? The possibilities seemed endless, and the unknown felt both thrilling and daunting.
While all of these questions could easily stir up nerves and anxiety about stepping into the unfamiliar, I found the key was learning to shift all uncertainty into a sense of possibility. This mindset amplified the appeal of studying abroad, for me, at least. I approached the experience with an open and eager mind, allowing myself to embrace it for what it was rather than what I expected it to be. This meant being open to change, to cancelled trains, missed flights, and moments I couldn’t have anticipated. Things like not knowing my way around the city right away or deciding where to go for dinner were small, privileged uncertainties – reminders that the unknown doesn’t have to come with overwhelming pressure. Instead, it can be an opportunity to embrace the spontaneity of the experience.
The Reality Behind the Romance
Social media has a powerful influence in fueling the appeal of studying abroad, for better or worse. We see picture-perfect moments from the top of the Swiss Alps to double-decker boat parties, creating a world of constant adventure and excitement. This comes from both influencers and students alike who share curated images embodying the dream of studying abroad. Only having this type of selective media as a frame of reference adds to the complexity of trying to understand the unknown. We never see aesthetic pictures of the 15-pound backpack digging into your shoulders as you’re sprinting through the airport or the over packed train cars with no air conditioning. It’s important to acknowledge the experience is not always going to be picture perfect. The challenges, though rarely highlighted, are just as real.
Beyond daily adjustments like not recognizing basic items in the local grocery store, there’s a constant pressure to make the most of every second. We need to see and do everything, squeeze in every landmark, café, and weekend trip. I mean, it’s only four months – there’s no time to waste, right? The fear of missing out is inescapable, creeping into your mind and convincing you rest means wasted time. This leads to less time for self-care and more time spent on the go. While the drive to stay “on” and make the most of these months is motivating, it’s essential to maintain balance. The pressure to keep up can easily lead to overcommitting, rushing just to check experiences off a list rather than appreciating them for what they are. Fill your schedule and see all the sights, but be sure to pace yourself and avoid burning out.
Studying abroad – especially in Florence – was an incredibly rewarding and unforgettable experience. It takes confidence, curiosity, and commitment to immerse yourself in a new culture, but I can promise you, it’s worth every moment. Hearing stories about travel is one thing, but nothing compares to experiencing it firsthand. Europe is filled with endless opportunities to explore, learn, and grow in ways you never expected. If studying abroad has ever crossed your mind, take this as your sign to go for it – it's an adventure you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life.