A bump on the road to graduation

As many of you may know, not everyone graduates college on time. Whether it is because of a lack of credits, past mistakes, failed or withdrawn classes, etc., some students may need to come back for a semester or even a full year. The first thing we do is panic and feel like our lives are turning upside down. We question everything we’ve done up to that point and wonder why this is happening to us.

Don’t fret! All things happen for a reason, and it’s nice to see it as a bump on the road instead of a road block.

I am one of those students who has to come back for a semester to earn my last few credits to receive my degree. When I first found out I was missing credits to graduate, I thought my life was over. The plans I had been developing for the past year had gone to shambles. My life had to be pushed back another four months. Another year long lease had to be signed for an apartment and I had to keep my retail job. Who in the world would want to stay in retail longer than they need to?!

As I continued to wallow in self-pity, a momentous and glorious opportunity landed on my computer screen like an angel coming down from the heavens. Study abroad. How did I not think of that before?! My frown turned into a smile from cheek to cheek and all of my worries momentarily disappeared.

Click me!

I am currently in the process of applying to study abroad in Europe. Instead of staying in Albany and going through the same routine everyday, I figured I’d go travel and experience what the world has to offer (while simultaneously getting my work done, of course!). Studying abroad is a great opportunity to learn about new cultures and explore new parts of the world. You get to meet new people and experience what it is like living elsewhere.

If any of you would like to find out more information about studying abroad, visit the Center for International Programs. There, you can talk to anyone about your options for studying abroad.