One-Month Study Abroad Blues: Why Am I Feeling Like This?! 😵‍💫

So, you’ve officially been studying abroad for a month—woohoo! 🎉 By now, you’ve probably figured out how to navigate the public transportation system without looking like a total tourist, found your favorite café, and maybe even picked up some local slang that makes you feel slightly cooler. 

But... if you’re feeling a little off lately—maybe tired, homesick, or just in a weird funk—you’re definitely not alone. I’ve been there, too.

Wait, Why Do I Feel Like This? 🤔

Honestly, hitting the one-month mark is weird. The initial excitement of being somewhere new starts to wear off, and reality sets in. Like, yeah, this isn’t just a vacation—you actually live here now. That can be a lot to process. 😅

Plus, there’s a lot going on right now. It’s that awkward seasonal change where the weather’s colder (hello, winter blues), you’re probably feeling the pressure to establish a routine, and you might even be a little burned out from constantly adapting to new things. (I mean, the amount of brainpower it takes just to figure out the grocery store? Exhausting.) 😮‍💨

And don’t even get me started on homesickness. It’s been long enough that you seriously miss your people, but you’re not quite settled enough here to feel totally comfortable yet. It’s rough, and it’s totally normal. I promise.

Oh, and About All That Fun You’ve Been Having... 🎉

I get it—there’s just so much to do and see! Every day feels like an opportunity for a new adventure, and the FOMO is real. But let’s be honest... you’re also here to study. Remember that? 📚

And honestly? IES Abroad classes are actually super interesting. I was lowkey worried study abroad classes would just be filler credits, but nope—these professors are so fun, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in what they’re teaching. Some of the best class discussions I’ve had have been here, and I’ve learned so much about topics I never would have explored otherwise. (Also, if your professor takes your class on a field trip, GO. They know all the cool spots. Trust me.)

It’s so easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget about schoolwork, but midterms are coming (yep, already), and playing catch-up is NOT fun. 

So, enjoy yourself, but don’t forget to show up to class—mentally and physically.

How I’ve Been Dealing (and You Can, Too)

I’ve been in this weird in-between spot, and honestly, it took me a minute to figure out how to feel like myself again. If you’re feeling the same, here are some things that helped me (and might help you, too):

1. Find One Thing to Make a Routine 🧘
   I know, I know—routines sound boring. But seriously, having just one consistent thing in your day can be so grounding. For me, it’s getting coffee from the same spot every morning. Maybe for you, it’s an evening walk or calling home at the same time each week. Whatever it is, having that one predictable thing helps make everything else feel less chaotic.
2. Don’t Expect Every Day to Be Amazing 🌤️
   Real talk: Not every day is going to be an adventure. Some days, you’re going to be exhausted, grumpy, or just... blah. And that’s okay! It doesn’t mean you’re not “making the most” of your study abroad experience. You’re human. It’s fine.
3. Talk to People (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It) 🤝
   I’m naturally an introvert, so this one is hard for me, but connecting with people really helps. Whether it’s chatting with classmates, joining a local event, or even just sending memes to friends back home, staying connected keeps you from feeling isolated.
4. Take Care of Your Body 🧘‍♀️
   I’m guilty of surviving on croissants and caffeine (I mean, they’re just so good here), but it really messes with my mood and physical health. Drink water, get some sleep, and move your body—even if it’s just a walk around the block. It genuinely makes a difference.
5. Let Yourself Be Homesick 🏡
   This was a hard one for me to accept. I kept telling myself, “I’m living in this amazing place; I shouldn’t feel sad!” But homesickness isn’t something you just get over. It’s a sign that you have meaningful connections back home, and that’s beautiful. Sometimes I scroll through old photos, call my best friend, or watch a movie in my native language. It helps.
6. Rest Days Are Productive Days 😴
   Seriously, you don’t need to be a tourist every single day. Some of my favorite memories so far have been the quiet rainy days where I just stayed in (my absolutely amazing studio), relaxed, and did nothing “Instagram-worthy.” Give yourself permission to rest. You deserve it.

Quick PSA: Balance Is Key ⚖️

It’s okay to have fun. You SHOULD have fun. 

But don’t forget to do the student part of studying abroad. A good rule of thumb? If you’re out more nights than you’re in, it might be time to hit the books. (Just saying. 😉)

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (For Now) 💖

This weird slump? It’s just a phase. As you keep adjusting, you’ll find your rhythm. You’ll learn how to balance exploring with resting, and how to make this place feel a little more like home. And one day, you’ll look back and realize just how much you’ve grown through it all.

If you’re feeling this too, you’re not alone. Shoot me a message or leave a comment. Sometimes just knowing someone else gets it makes all the difference. We’re in this together! 🌍💕

Your friend,

Chi :)