As we ring in a new school term, I find myself reflecting on the last year and my first term studying in London and at LSE. There have certainly been ups and downs, but looking back, I realise how much I have grown both personally and academically. Now, I feel more equipped to take on whatever new challenges may come my way. With that being said, here are some things I have learnt half way through my study abroad experience.

1. Learn to become comfortable with being alone. Despite being in a new place, surrounded by new faces, and immersed in a new community, you may find yourself spending more time alone and that’s okay! Studying abroad is also about self-growth and allowing the time and space for that is important too. Embrace that time to get to know yourself better. In fact, at some points, I’ve found that those moments alone bring me the most comfort. 
2. You don’t need to travel every single weekend. I often find myself seeing stories and posts from other study abroad students and it looks like they’re visiting a new city every weekend and I wonder if I somehow wasn’t doing enough. But, I’ve realised the importance in taking time to get to know your host city. So I encourage you to explore different neighbourhoods, find your favourite coffee shop, and stroll through a new park! Adventures and treasures await around the corner and the good news is, you don’t need to fly there! 
3. On that note, remember that everyone’s study abroad experience looks different. You may see a lot of people posting on social media about all the cool, new, and exciting things they’re doing and at first glance you may think that they’re having a better time than you. I’ve learnt to remind myself that their goals for their time abroad will look different to mine. Comparison is the thief of joy! Try to avoid comparing yourself and enjoy your own unique journey. 
4. Another reason to not travel every weekend: you won’t be as stressed trying to figure out how to also devote time to your studies. There’s a reason it’s called “study abroad” and not just “abroad.” Don’t forget, you are still in school! It’s easy to get caught up in all the excitement and urge to travel all the time but remember to spend some time on your academics and not forego your education!
5. Make an effort to integrate yourself into your host school’s community. You are a student there after all! In December, I travelled to Riga, Latvia and Tallinn with LSE’s Traveling Society, Itchy Feet. I had a blast getting to know students outside my study abroad cohort and had so many new stories to share with friends back home.  
6. Finances are more important than you realise. You may want to do everything, but it may not always be possible. Understand that there will be some trade-offs you have to make. There are various budgeting tools and resources online to help and you can always speak to your school about finding part-time work while on your Student Visa if you are looking to earn some additional cash while abroad. 
7. Enjoy the process. Late-night studying, the stress of learning to navigate a new transport system, and the “Oh no, I forgot my passport moment!” you or your friend had, are all a part of the study abroad experience!