Do It Scared, Do It Alone: Lessons from Studying Abroad
Abby Tannhauser, GrandPR’s 2024-2025 CCO once said, “Don’t be afraid to do things alone.” That simple advice echoed in my mind as I began my study abroad journey this summer. On June 25, 2025, I boarded my very first international and solo flight to London Heathrow Airport. I was terrified. Even though a site director met me at the airport, I didn’t know her, and no familiar face was waiting for me. After a quick welcome, she dropped me off at the University of Roehampton, my new home for the next month, and I was on my own.
Finding My Footing
The moment I stepped into my flat, it hit me: I was completely alone in a foreign country, 3,765 miles away from everyone I know and love. They warn you about the emotional whirlwind that can come with studying abroad, but nothing fully prepares you for the rush of excitement, fear, and anxiety that hits all at once, especially when combined with jet lag.
Within 30 minutes of being on campus, I was on the phone with my parents, telling them I hated it and I wanted to go home. They reassured me, “You’re fine, Sophie. Just give it a day.”
So I did.
I stepped outside my comfort zone and headed to the library, where I introduced myself to two girls from Kentucky, Adi and Elizabeth. They immediately welcomed me with open arms, and less than 24 hours later, we were exploring central London together, sightseeing and laughing like lifelong friends.
Focused on Thriving
As soon as classes started, I found myself falling into an easy routine: classes in the morning, exploring with Adi and Elizabeth in the afternoon. It became our mission to explore as many different boroughs in London as possible. We even ended up taking some weekend trips, including one to Brighton. Discovering little local spots such as the Temple of Art and Music or Word on the Water was our reward for riding the hot underground to get around.
My classwork kept me busy, between the fieldtrips around London to learn more about multiculturalism, and writing my final essay for class. Right before my final week began, I found myself reflecting on how quickly it had gone. The last week was jam-packed with adventure because we were determined to soak up as much of London as humanly possible. Armed with my photos, souvenirs, and memories that will last a lifetime, I prepared myself to say goodbye to the place and people that I had fallen in love with.
Figuring Out How to Say Goodbye
I found a love for London when I left home. Once I heard a quote from Mel Robbins in which she said, “Live somewhere new in your twenties, it doesn’t have to be forever, but it will change you forever.” This has been proven to be more than true. My time in London studying at the University of Roehampton was truly a life-changing experience. I left Michigan as one person and came back as someone completely different. Because of this experience, I will never be the same. My world has been opened not only educationally but also emotionally and culturally. Having taken this opportunity to expand my knowledge of the world is something I will never forget.
I have met people who will be forever friends of mine and experienced things that will exist as core memories. London has stolen my heart in the best way possible. Saying goodbye to this place that had become my new home was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.
While my time abroad was shorter than I would’ve liked, it was truly a transformative experience. To anyone wondering whether they should take the leap into something unfamiliar: do it. Take the opportunity. Embrace the nerves. Go alone if you have to. The things that scare you most often lead to the experiences that shape you in the best possible ways.
This photo collage above shows some of my favorite moments from my travels!
Sophie is an upcoming junior majoring in Advertising & Public Relations with a minor in Psychology and an emphasis in Public Relations. She currently sits as the Programming Director for GVPRSSA, along with working as an Account Associate at GrandPR. She is also a member of the Frederik Meijer Honors College. After graduation, Sophie hopes to pursue a career in sports media.