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:
- Breathe and stay in the moment.
- 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.
