An Introvert Abroad

Traveling out of the country is a scary thought. For an anxious introvert like me, going out to buy something at the store is just as scary some days. I had always known I was going to study abroad, but it didn’t fully hit me that I was doing it until I was about to board the final plane out of this country and into the next.

More Info About My Trip

I studied abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from January to May, and going there really was one of the best decisions I have ever made. It gave me a chance to do a lot of things I had never tried before in North America (20-hour bus rides to Iguazú and Tilcara, concerts, a boat ride in a rainstorm under Iguazú Falls…).

I also got the amazing opportunity to become close friends with people from all over the world: my closest friends were from Texas, Venezuela, and Colombia.

Tips for Other Anxious Introverts

I was close to deciding not to go, or thinking I had chosen the wrong location, because of how anxious I felt before starting the trip. I don’t want others to feel this way and think they’re alone, so here are my two best tips for those like me who aren’t sure they made the right choice:

1. Breathe and stay in the moment.
2. Don’t be afraid to make new connections—strangers could quickly become friends who help bring you out of your comfort zone and let you explore in a safe way.

Armed with this knowledge and the courage to take a small leap of faith, you could easily be the next introvert abroad! I promise you won’t regret it.