While studying abroad, you might feel the need to visit and see as many different places as possible, traveling to a new city or country every weekend. It makes sense to want to do this, because how often do we get the chance to visit a different continent? But sometimes, it can be stressful and tiring visiting a new place every weekend. Many of my friends who are studying abroad have told me how always being on the go can get very stressful. As young college students, we have our whole lives ahead of us, and there is plenty of time for us to explore the world if we put our minds to it. Traveling to new places is exciting but can also be overwhelming for some, especially those who are adjusting to their new environment. It’s important to take time to yourself to relax, recharge, and live life at a slower pace. Listen to what your mind and body have to say and take a weekend off to relax and do nothing if you want—it’s okay to take life slow.
My roommates and I decided to stay two nights at a small hotel in the countryside just 40 minutes outside of Siena this weekend. We spent our time reading, swimming, and overall just enjoying the free time we had. We tried new foods, met the most welcoming people, and watched the sunset every night. For me, I was able to slow down and really think about what was important to me. The countryside is a good place to let go of any stress and free yourself from anything that is weighing you down. Allowing myself a little bit of free time in the countryside allowed me to feel recharged and ready to take on the next week. I didn’t travel anywhere far or do anything exotic this weekend, but I was happy and enjoyed the peace and tranquility of being in the countryside.
Studying abroad can be overwhelming, especially with all of the things that you feel obligated to see and do while you're here, which makes it incredibly important to take care of yourself and allow yourself to rest when you need it. It is okay to miss out on some experiences because what matters most is your own happiness and well-being. Just do what feels right to you and take your study abroad experience into your own hands!
Elizabeth Wang
<p>Currently I am an International Relations and Global Studies major at The University of Texas at Austin. In my free time I enjoy exploring Austin with my corgi or curling up in bed with a good book. I am a very active person and I like to take advantage of school breaks to travel and explore the unknown. In the past year, I have been to Mexico, Thailand, Canada, and Turks and Caicos. When I graduate, my dream is to find a job which will allow me to travel and explore the world.</p>
