Leaving the US all by myself to move to a new country for a few months was truly the most overwhelming yet enriching experience. I am so grateful for my time in Galway, Ireland, but going to a foreign environment with new people, different academic standards, and all the culture shocks made some days harder than others.
Throughout my exchange, I learned different strategies to take care of myself and my mental wellbeing during my time away from home. The first being to get involved as much as possible and as early as possible. Getting involved in campus and community activities is such an easy way to make friends while exploring your hobbies. Establishing a good group of friends gives you a great support system throughout your exchange and meeting them in university clubs/events ensures you are all like-minded individuals.
Hiking in Connemara with friends
I also found it very helpful to establish a regular routine early on. Moving to a new country brings a lot of chaos into one’s life, so establishing a regular routine you can rely on is very helpful. It also helps to make sure you don’t get sucked into sitting in your room all day and not exploring the city that you’re in! In this routine, I found it beneficial to my mental health to include a form of exercise. This can take the form of a run, YouTube yoga, or walking around town and exploring as you go! Staying active works to boost energy and overall mood, which is so important while being abroad! Also in my routine, I found it very beneficial to allot time to keep up with my friends and family back home as to relieve any homesickness I was feeling.
My last piece of advice is specific to exchange programs in Ireland, which is to take advantage of sunny days whenever you get them! People do not lie about Ireland’s dreary weather, and I did not realize the effects less sun would have on me and my mental health. So, when it is a nice day out, I make sure I get outside and go for a walk and soak it all in. With this, I also recommend vitamin D supplements to curb the negative effects the lack of sun has over here.
Sunny day on Grattan Beach
Studying abroad comes with so many challenges, especially when you are the only one from Drexel in your program. It is important to remember that you are not alone and acknowledge how you are feeling throughout your time abroad. My time in Ireland has truly been the most enriching and rewarding thing I have ever done, and I am grateful every day for my experiences.
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