Finding Home Far From Home

February 3, 2026

Choosing to study abroad in Athens, Greece, was one of those choices that was exciting as well as terrifying. I remember asking myself if I would regret leaving my life behind, if I would feel alone, and if I would fit in. In the end, I can say that going overseas to study was one of my greatest choices and experiences. Athens became more than just a location I studied; it became a second home because of the unexpected connections of my housing setup, the friendships I made, and the growth that I went through.

Housing was one of the most surprising aspects of my stay overseas. At first, living in an apartment with ten other students seemed overwhelming. Ten people living in one place? However, it turned out to be one of the important elements of my experience rather than feeling crowded or uncomfortable. Despite the fact that we were from different parts of the country and had different backgrounds, personalities, and majors, it managed to work. The apartment soon became a common area for late-night discussions and meals. We learned how to navigate different habits and schedules but more importantly, we learned how to support each other. Whether it was someone feeling homesick, stressed about classes, or overwhelmed by being in a new country, there was always someone there to listen. Despite the number of people, the apartment felt like a family. It was comforting to come home each day knowing I wasn’t alone.

Friendships made abroad are truly special. When people are traveling to a new country together, a special relationship builds. We were all jointly adjusted to a new location, language, and culture, which allowed greater bonds. If I hadn’t been overseas, I might never have met these people, but they ended up becoming some of the most influential people in my life. Friendships developed quickly and strong since we were all in the same situation. Together, we visited Athens, got lost, celebrated in minor accomplishments, and helped one another overcome difficulties. These experiences, which consisted of wandering through old streets to spending hours talking about life in cafés, left me with lifelong memories. I learned how important shared experiences can be and how easily strangers may become lifetime friends when studying abroad.

Beyond all that, studying abroad taught me some of the most important life lessons I’ve learned so far. One of the biggest was learning to step outside of my comfort zone.

Before going abroad, I was someone who liked structure and familiarity. Athens pushed me to be more flexible, independent, and confident in myself. Whether it was navigating public transportation, adjusting to cultural differences, or simply trying to communicate when I didn’t know the language well, I learned to trust myself. Living in a new country also helped me grow emotionally. I became more open-minded, and more appreciative of different ways of life. Being immersed in a culture so rich in history and tradition made me reflect on my own values and perspectives. This experience allowed me to slow down, be present, and truly experience the world around me instead of rushing through it.

If there’s one piece of advice I would give to anyone considering studying abroad, it would be this: take the leap. It’s normal to feel nervous or unsure, but growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones. Studying abroad is an experience that will challenge you, inspire you, and change you in ways you can’t fully predict. You’ll learn just as much about yourself as you do about the place you’re studying in. Athens taught me that home isn’t just a place, it’s the people you share experiences with and the moments that shape you. I left Greece with unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and a stronger sense of who I am. Studying abroad didn’t just change where I studied for a semester; it changed how I see the world and my place in it.