Best Decision I've Made

I knew I wanted to expand my worldview and studying abroad is a great way to do this. Not only did I get to continue my education while visiting a new country, I got to assimilate into the environment. I was nervous to leave home but I knew it was a step I needed to take. I had such a wonderful experience. The minute I met my study abroad group in person my worries dissipated. We all bonded so much living in the flat together and going on the scheduled trips. I highly recommend taking advantage of those! USAC is a wonderful organization and the entire process was so much less stressful than if I'd done it alone. The USAC and University of Brighton staff were lovely. I felt so supported while abroad. I think a common misconception is that studying abroad is very expensive. Through USAC, I was able to pay my home university tuition so the only extra costs were some fees and the plane tickets. Though these fees add up, I believe it is a manageable added expense when you consider all that is included (we were supplied kitchen supplies, bedding, and snacks from UofB upon arrival and both the University and USAC have trips that are included in the fee costs). Ultimately this experience changed my life. The people in my study abroad group have become some of my best friends. Deciding to study abroad allowed me to have so many amazing experiences at such a young age. The memories I made will truly last a lifetime.