I can honestly say that studying abroad was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Living in another country gave me the opportunity to get familiar with a new culture, meet new people and find new places to explore. I learned to live in the present moment and appreciate the small things.
To make sure that everyone has the best possible educational experience, it is necessary to develop cultural intelligence and cultural competence. To do this, teachers need to be more aware of and accept the cultural differences that affect learning and behavior in the classroom. Being culturally intelligent and competent involves, among other things, considering how cultural differences affect learning styles. Some students tend to learn best by observing and then performing, others by using oral instructions, and still others by using visual and written instructions. I can definitely say that my professors are well aware of cultural differences and accept them. This creates a better learning environment for students from different cultures, as well as a unique opportunity to learn from the experience of others. In the UK, the relations between professors and students are quite friendly. Students should pay attention when the professor speaks and explains the lesson, but at the same time professors try to make their lessons lively and useful.
Studying abroad opened my eyes to the world around me. This is a lesson that I don’t think I could have learned in class. This required me to find myself in a new situation, filled with new people and new experiences. I am so grateful for this opportunity. If I could give one piece of advice to younger students planning to study abroad, I would advise them to GO! Go out into the world and experience life. Find some place that excites you. It’s 100% worth it. Studying abroad was one of the most formative experiences, and I know that the lessons I learned in London will remain with me for the rest of my life.