Nearly two years after the start of the pandemic, you might have hopes of studying abroad and you might be seeing those dreams fade away. I hope to convince you otherwise. We all thought the worst was behind us but there’s still some way to go.
As I’m writing this article I am myself studying abroad in Vienna, Austria. While it was a long and tedious process I could not be more grateful to be here. The people I’ve met have been kind and welcoming, and I have seen some incredible things.
But you might be wondering why you should study abroad, at a time where the pandemic is still going on?
Incredibly rewarding
Studying Abroad is one of the most rewarding experiences a student can have; even during a global pandemic. I have met students from all over the world. Some of my closest friends are Croatian, French and Serbian. Meeting people from all over the world has widened my views and learn about their different cultures. Yes, it is possible to have a fascinating conversation about the Orthodox Church (I bet you didn’t know that).
After being cooped up inside for nearly two years (having all online classes in the first year of university) meeting other students is a refreshing experience. I met people who do the same degree as me, future lawyers and students of German philologie (a subject I have yet to understand). I know that the connections I made will last a lifetime. Imagine having friends all over the world. You’re traveling and you know you have a connection in the country you’re in and you can get a local to show you around. All of that thanks to studying abroad even during a pandemic.
Wearing a face mask indoors should not be the thing to stop you. If I had skipped going to museums or the cinema just because I had to wear a mask indoors, I would have struggled immensely to make friends. I have adored discovering new artists such as Modigliani (who I had never heard of before). Doing the long night of the museums with some of my friends will probably be one of my best memories.
Looking ahead
But what if I have to quarantine upon arrival at my place of study, you might ask? While it might be a hassle to have to quarantine, you’ll have something to look forward to. I knew, for weeks before I arrived in Austria, that I would have to quarantine but that did not reduce my desire to get there. If quarantining in your new country is the final hurdle to your amazing experience of studying abroad, it should not hold you back.
I could go on and on about all the amazing experiences I’ve had while abroad in Vienna. But I hope that my previous points have made my case! Although there are downsides to studying abroad during a pandemic, if you have the occasion to go abroad, GO! A pandemic should not be something to hold you back. Your adventure awaits.
