Studying abroad can be apart of any student's journey, at any time! There is a common misconception that there's a "right time" to study abroad, but LeadAbroad supports our students no matter when they do. Kelly Willis, a 1st year at The University of Alabama on our DIRECT Greece program, made the leap of faith to study abroad her freshman year and wouldn't have it any other way!
Kelly prioritized making valuable memories over worrying if this was the right time to go abroad and it made the world of a difference. "When deciding to study abroad I honestly didn’t focus much on how young I was as opposed to wanting to travel to Greece. It has always been my dream travel location and when the opportunity presented itself I had to take it." LeadAbroad has college students of all ages on our programs with us, with a deep focus on the connections our students foster rather than their age! "I feel like I learned a lot from friends I made on the trip who were older than me, and it was a reminder that once you reach college, age in friendships truly does not matter as much." Students leave programs with best friends, special bonds, and memories that'll last a lifetime made with others all over the country and of all ages.
Going on a program where you know no one allows you to step out of your comfort zone, and find what you're passionate both within yourself and within friendships. Kelly experienced this exact feeling being able to find herself and the person she was becoming! "During my trip I was able to do a lot of reflecting and through adventures, meeting new friends, and all our lessons. I was reminded to be comfortable in who I truly am and that I want to be surrounded by people that support me in that." Studying abroad earlier in your college career also gives students the perfect opportunity to grow their independence, confidence, and themselves overall! Kelly shared that creating relationships with older students allowed her to see things from a more mature perspective and different point of view, while growing out of her shell! "For me, confidence stems from being content with myself and also the people around me and the trip really reminded me to look for others that make me feel as such."
If you have any doubts about studying abroad earlier in your college experience, take the leap of faith and do it! Kelly's story is inspiring and a great reminder that everyone has a different timeline in life, and limiting your own based on others will take away from once in a lifetime opportunities like this! Thank you for sharing your story with us, Kelly! Welcome to the LeadAbroad family. To create your own special memories, join our 2025 priority list below!
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