As I’m nearing the end of my sixth week here in Stockholm, this semester is flying by faster and faster! Let’s take a moment to slow down and reflect on my expectations for studying abroad and how they’ve changed.

First of all, I expected to have a busy schedule, but I also trusted that my time management skills from past semesters would allow me to balance my responsibilities well. Luckily, I’ve found that this expectation holds true! My schedule is often packed with attending classes, studying, commuting, socializing, planning trips, cleaning my space and doing chores, unpacking and repacking, organizing meals, connecting with friends and family from home, keeping up with academic and professional responsibilities back home, and simply enjoying all the opportunities around me this semester. However, I was able to foster strong self-sufficiency and time management skills over the past couple years at Pitt. Combined with the ambition that comes along with studying abroad, I’ve been able to balance my responsibilities and plan my schedule relatively easily.

Second, I was fearful that it might be a struggle to prioritize and truly focus on school when there are so many other exciting opportunities and experiences around me. However, this fear has disappeared entirely. My courses, and the incredible teachers I’ve connected with, are one of the most interesting parts of my time abroad. This is, in part, due to the fact that I was mindful to choose courses that interest me and that fit my learning style. On top of that, DIS incorporates practical application and professional learning through field studies and tours in local and foreign communities. These visits – such as learning about Swedish culture from local high school students, visiting an institutional care facility for adolescents, and hearing from leaders within various fields of biotechnology and clinical research – are designed to expand our perspective on the course material in academic, professional, and cultural ways. My courses feel truly integrated into my real-life experiences and my personal and professional growth.

Finally, I had an expectation coming into this program that my semester abroad would feel distinctly separate from my time at college so far. However, I now feel that it fits right in, and expands on top of my journey rather than sitting apart from it. In fact, the adjustment to studying abroad is not as drastic as I thought it would be. Yes, there are many small changes and peculiarities to get used to, but you also have a group of fellow students going through the same adjustment and a community to support you. Even the seemingly never-ending cold weather has become something I appreciate and feel comfortable in! All in all, if you welcome the experience with an open mind and an attitude of enthusiasm, life abroad will welcome you.