Study Abroad Experiences

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Hello everyone,

I am interested in hearing about other people's experience with traveling to other countries, whether it be through study abroad programs at colleges, or for your own personal adventure into the unknown.
Personally, I've had the rare opportunity to experience life in Tianjin, China. In the summer of 2014 I spent a month at Nankai University, studying Mandarin language and Chinese culture. The experience was amazing and I had a lot of fun, but because of my Autistic traits, I also struggled with socializing with the other students and people in China. Despite the social issues, I do not regret going and am planning on traveling to Japan or England this next summer.
Once again, I encourage people to share any experiences they've had in other countries and elaborate on what it was like.
Look forward to hearing from you.

Cheers!

I have no experience with it. The idea of being a foreign exchange student always freaked me out, although I don't mind the idea of one staying with me. Good for you for going!! !

Immediately after high school, I was invited to participate in a band that would tour Europe. I didn't even tell my parents about it. A couple of years later, my sister got the invitation and jumped on the opportunity. My parents then turned to me and asked me why I never got an invitation like that. I said I had. They asked why I didn't want to spend three weeks touring Europe. I asked why my sister found it fun to spend three weeks going to strange places with strange people she didn't know.

I wish I had the guts at that point to go, but I don't regret my decision because at that point in my life I just couldn't do it. At that age, I still couldn't order my own food at a restaurant.

Even now, I don't think I would be a foreign exchange student unless I knew for sure I would know someone where I was going. I think it is fantastic that you have done this and will again!

I would have KILLED to have been able to study abroad!

Thank you for the replies everyone.
I appreciate nerdygirl's detailed reply. I'm sorry that you weren't brave enough to attend the tour. There are always other opportunities though and I encourage you to have some courage in the future.
Are you a musician or aspiring to become one?

I am a musician. I mostly teach privately, but I am studying composition. I also do a small amount of performing, mainly as an accompanist.

Back when I was in school the first time 20+ years ago, I dropped composition because timidity got the best of me. I have grown a tremendous amount in courage and people skills since then!

I could provide a "detailed reply" because I've never studied abroad.

Not because I was trying to be a smart-butt.

I was just expressing my lament at NOT having studied abroad.

One of my friend had joined Abbey Road for Summer Abroad Programs. His experience was great. He told me that they provide quality academic summer programs that facilitate cross-cultural understanding, personal growth and academic enrichment.There is nothing quite like being on your own in a foreign country.

I have been to the US many times, plus India and the Caribbean. I'm glad I went, but now, I won't go near the US border for fear of getting nervous, making a joke, and dying in custody.