While abroad, I felt that I became a whole new person in the best way possible. I would say that my time abroad was unique as I did not stay in my host city on the weekends.
During the weekends, I was fortunate enough to travel to others countries and experience their culture as well. I have a deep respect and desire to want to understand the different languages and traditions other cultures have and I have found the best way to discover this would be through traveling. Much to my surprise, I solo traveled all these adventures and I know that if I were to tell myself that when I was younger, I would not believe it. Though, I will admit, my first solo trip was not planned as I had a flight error while in Madrid and then elected to stay in Madrid alone the rest of the weekend rather than head back to Salamanca. But this spontaneity, something I don't typically practice, was so freeing and honestly led to the best memories. Throughout my travels, I had met so many wonderful people from all different walks of life and loved to learn more about their own unique stories, but still found comfort in my "homebase" of Salamanca. I found much independence and liberation through solo traveling as it allowed me to choose what I wanted to do and where I was headed. That being said, traveling around Europe was not only easy but also cost-efficient. I really enjoyed being able to utilize the public transportation systems and loved the overall ability to walk everywhere. Additionally, the awareness to the environment is so much different because of public transportation, which allows less pollution in the air. Due to all the factors and aspects that I loved abroad, I am hoping to return and reside in Europe permanently, but I must complete my undergraduate degree first. However, I will admit that I am applying to masters of public health programs abroad, as another benefit of Europe is the affordable education. Overall, I think the United States could learn a thing or two from Europe, but until then, I will just continue to share my amazing experience with others, hoping that they too can experience Europe for themselves.
Upon returning abroad, it was difficult to assimilate back into my old life as it was not Europe. While in Europe my mental health was amazing, I was present everyday as I was experiencing new things all the time. But here in the states life was so much different. The cost of goods was more expensive, everything was further away from each other, and public transportation was rarely utilized in my suburban community. In complete honesty, I still have trouble being back home and am looking forward to the day that I can return to the "best version of myself" while I was in Europe. I was brave, independent, excited to explore, less stressed etc.
Prior to studying abroad, I have been overseas but I never. knew the full extent of the European healthcare system. As a public health major, I found this perspective of Universal Healthcare so beneficial but was also cognizant of the disadvantages that come with Universal healthcare. This opportunity to not only learn about Universal healthcare but also experience it was so fascinating to me which thus led me to question many of the systems in the United States. My long-term plan is to work with a global organization on better healthcare access and through my travels, I was able to experience the benefits and negatives, providing me with a whole new perspective.
