Study Abroad Spontaneity: Learn to Go with the Flow

Last weekend was one of those rare occurrences while studying abroad where I did not have anything planned. While abroad, there are only so many weekends to travel and explore the place you are studying. I don’t want to waste what little time I have, so I usually have something planned for the weekends, either where I am studying in Limerick, Ireland, or visiting other places in Europe.

I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do this weekend when, luckily, one of my friends came across a Thomas Rhett concert in Dublin that was taking place on Thursday. We also found a day tour to the beautiful counties of Wicklow and Kilkenny. By this point in the week it was already Wednesday so we booked everything and were off to Dublin the next day!

Now, I am not usually the type of person that is spontaneous. I like my list and plans and knowing when everything is going to happen, but one thing that I have learned while studying abroad is that things do not always go as planned. Opportunities will pop up while you’re on a trip or when you least expect them to. Take advantage of those opportunities; they might not be what you were expecting, but they might just be the highlight of your trip.

When my friends and I took a weekend trip to Edinburgh, Scotland, we came across a flyer for a haunted tour of the city. We did not have anything planned for that night and thought it looked like fun, so we the bought tickets, and it was one of the most memorable moments of the trip!

Studying abroad requires you to always try to keep an open mind. Listen to the locals and keep and eye out for flyers and fun activities. My spontaneous weekend in Dublin and Wicklow was one of the best weekends I have had here in Ireland. I had the opportunity to see one of my favorite musicians from the front row and visit one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen, all while following a tight budget. I had a great time with friends, and I would have never experienced it, if I had not loosened up and went for it. So remember, in the midst of all the planning, don’t forget to be spontaneous.

This post was contributed by Kathryn Mullins, who is studying abroad with AIFS in Limerick, Ireland.

Ireland is a great study abroad location for spontaneous adventure. If you are inspired by Kathryn’s story, go for it! Find your dream location to study abroad with AIFS.