My Journey Abroad

By: Ava Ortiz

Once my housing plans fell through for this 2024-2025 school year, I started to consider going abroad. But I didn’t know if this was something for me. I constantly asked people I trusted what I should do and they told me only I could make that decision. So I got on a flight to London from LAX and was on my way. I was terrified and ecstatic at the same time. I met my roommate shortly after landing and we grabbed a coffee and talked for hours till our coach was there to pick us up. After unpacking, it set in that I would be here for a whole 12 weeks. I began to be homesick. Everyone I loved was thousands of miles away asleep because of the time difference. I felt so alone. 

It wasn't until I was taking the trash out with my roommate that I decided to say hi to the girl standing in the elevator. It was a quick chat and we moved on. Later to found out that we are neighbors and her roommate attends the same college as me. We ended up going out that night together and have been best friends since then. We are currently getting ready to go on a trip to Barcelona for Halloween this weekend. 10 weeks ago I didn’t think I would be finishing the program.

Being abroad has brought me friends and experiences I never knew I needed. I have visited more countries this year than I ever have in my life. I have become an independent individual who can navigate this whole city on my own. When I first arrived I was scared to even step foot outside by myself. I feel so many emotions leaving this place where I have grown so much, from sadness to relief to happiness. If are considering going abroad, I 100% recommend it. 

EXPLORE LONDON