[Tips] Adopting a Travel Perspective

Perspective. Everyone’s experience abroad depends on the perspective they adopt. Much of what people see and feel is what they want to see and feel. Traveling can be exhausting and not always glamorous, but focusing on the little negatives is a choice. And it’s much more enjoyable if you focus on all there is to learn and explore.

Water in a wine glass. Is it half full or empty?

With Travel Study, some students may prioritize academics. Other students may take advantage of being abroad and indulge in what the city has to offer. There is no best or right way to do travel study. It’s personal preference.

Seeing the city could mean a checklist for some—Louve, check, Eiffel Tower, check, Notre Dame, check—and it can mean cultural immersion and getting lost exploring the city neighborhoods for others. It could mean self-discovery, whether it be clarifying an interest in an academic subject or even changing career paths. It could mean self-discovery of your capacity to plan and travel independently. It could mean gaining confidence by speaking to strangers.

Travel Study is an opportunity and a privilege. Learning truly expands beyond the class material, museums, and historic sites. You can learn about life and culture from other travelers and local or develop a new hobby. Bring a camera abroad with you and practice capturing your friends, the food, and the sights. Or if you’re interested in videography, it's the perfect chance to document an adventure abroad. 

But the above isn’t the extent of what you can learn. Personally, I learned the most when I did these things:

Get lost. The kick of adrenaline will heighten your senses and bring you to an elevated state of wonder. Take in your surroundings and stop worrying. Enjoy it. The quiet, the bustle, the tourists, the artists, the locals, the architecture. Whoever and whatever is in your immediate vicinity. Wander around and observe the flow of the city. Breathe in the culture.

Venice, Italy

Talk to strangers. Say hi with a smile. Ask questions. Don’t hesitate—just do it. I love UCLA, I love Westwood, I love LA, California, the West Coast, the U.S. But they’re bubbles within bubbles. It's nice to step outside of these bubbles and talk to someone’s who’s led a completely different life. Everyone has different insights to share, and human connection is one of of the most important aspects of life. You may find yourself surprised at what you learn. 

Most importantly, stay humble, open-minded, and respectful. Understand that people are raised in different cultures. Be respectful of the one you are a visitor of.

So again, I encourage you to get lost and talk to strangers. Be respectful, stay humble, and keep an open mind. 

But of course, safety is still your number one priority. So use your common sense to judge if it’s a safe situation to be in.

Thanks for reading,

Sherry