My experience living in Hong Kong for the past two months has officially come to an end, and saying it was an incredible experience would be an understatement. This was my first time in Asia, and I arrived not knowing exactly what to expect. Now, I am leaving with memories of a lifetime and a completely new perspective on how much of the world I still have yet to see.

Living abroad definitely came with adjustments. Getting used to Hong Kong’s heat and humidity, being 12 hours ahead of home, and navigating an entirely new environment pushed me outside of my comfort zone. But before long, the unfamiliar became exciting. I met people from different places, cultures, and backgrounds, and some of them became my closest friends.

This summer gave me much more than passport stamps. Studying abroad gave me the opportunity to experience places, cultures, foods, and ways of life that I had previously only seen from afar. More importantly, traveling throughout Asia made me realize just how much of the world I still want to see. I came to Hong Kong for a summer abroad and left with new friendships, countless memories, a much more well-loved passport, and an even bigger desire to keep exploring.

Coming home, I find myself thinking less about where I have been and more about where I can go next. I want to continue immersing myself in new cultures, meeting new people, trying unfamiliar things, and seeking experiences outside of my comfort zone.

Hong Kong may have been my first experience living abroad, but I know it will not be my last.

Now the only question is: where to next?