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When I signed up to study abroad in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, I knew I’d be stepping outside my academic comfort zone. As a psychology and cognitive science major, studying the biology of the South Pacific and sustainability & development wasn’t exactly in my wheelhouse. But I wanted to challenge myself, explore new perspectives, and, of course, experience the beauty of a part of the world I had never seen before. What I didn’t realize was just how much studying abroad would shape me, not just academically, but personally. It turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Throughout my time abroad, I had the chance to see and do things I never could have imagined. I hiked through the untouched Fiordland rainforests, where towering trees and cascading waterfalls made me feel like I had stepped into another world. I swam alongside hundreds of wild dolphins in frigid waters, an experience so surreal it felt like a dream. And in Fiji, I connected with local islanders, learning about their traditions, values, and way of life in a way that no textbook could ever capture. These moments weren’t just exciting adventures, they opened my eyes to different ways of thinking, living, and understanding the world. I learned about sustainability firsthand, not just in theory but from the people whose lives depend on it. Even though my studies abroad weren’t directly tied to my major, they expanded my knowledge in ways that will stick with me forever.

Looking back, studying abroad was so much more than just taking classes in another country. It was about stepping outside my comfort zone, saying yes to new experiences, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the world around me. It taught me that education isn’t just about what’s in a lecture or a textbook.

Study abroad is about the people you meet, the cultures you experience, and the places that take your breath away. If you’re considering studying abroad, my advice is simple: go for it. You’ll learn more than you ever expected, make memories that last a lifetime, and return home with a fresh perspective on both the world and yourself.

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