Written by Alexia Ernberg, J-1 Exchange Student
When I first arrived in San Francisco as an exchange student from Spain, I had no idea how much this experience would shape me. I expected to improve my English, explore a new city, and make friends from different cultures. But what I didn’t anticipate was how much I would grow as a person, academically, socially, and emotionally. Studying abroad has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life, and looking back, I can see just how much it has changed me.
One of the biggest ways I’ve grown is in my independence. Moving to a new country where I didn’t know anyone forced me to rely on myself in ways I never had before. From figuring out public transportation to managing my finances and cooking for myself, I quickly learned how to handle things on my own. Back home, I was used to having my family close by for support, but here, I had to become my own problem solver. At first, even the smallest tasks felt overwhelming. I remember my first trip to the grocery store, where I spent way too long comparing prices and struggling to find familiar ingredients. In Spain, I would often go shopping with my family, and meals were always a shared experience. Suddenly, I had to plan everything on my own, from budgeting my money to making sure I had enough food for the week. Over time, I became more efficient, and now, what once felt stressful is just a normal part of my routine.
Navigating public transportation was another challenge. In my first few weeks, I got lost multiple times trying to figure out the Muni system. I once boarded the wrong bus and ended up in a completely unfamiliar neighborhood, which was both terrifying and exciting. However, each mistake was a learning experience, and now, I can confidently move around the city without much trouble. This newfound independence has given me confidence that I can handle any challenge life throws my way.
Living in San Francisco has also changed the way I see the world. Before coming to the U.S., I had certain ideas about American culture, some of them accurate, some completely off. Like many people, I associated the U.S. with Hollywood, fast food, and big cities. However, being here has helped me break stereotypes and truly understand the cultural diversity of the country. San Francisco, in particular, is a melting pot of people from all over the world, and interacting with different cultures has broadened my perspective. It has made me more open-minded and adaptable, qualities that will stay with me long after I leave.
One of the most fascinating aspects of my experience has been observing how people from different backgrounds interact. In Spain, there is a strong sense of community, and people often form lifelong friendships within their hometowns. In contrast, I’ve noticed that Americans tend to be more individualistic, but at the same time, they are open to meeting new people. I was initially surprised by how easy it was to start conversations with strangers, whether at a coffee shop, on campus, or at an event. This openness helped me build connections faster than I expected. I’ve also met many other international students who, like me, are experiencing the excitement and challenges of studying abroad. These interactions have not only improved my English but have also given me a deeper appreciation for different cultures.
Ironically, being away from home has also made me appreciate Spain even more. I miss the long sobremesas with my family, the late-night tapas outings, and the way life back home moves at a slower, more relaxed pace. In Spain, meals are not just about eating; they are about connecting with others, sharing stories, and enjoying the moment. Here, life feels faster, with people often eating on the go or working through lunch. At first, this cultural difference was difficult to adjust to, but it also made me realize how much I value the traditions I grew up with.
At the same time, I’ve come to appreciate aspects of American culture that I didn’t expect. The emphasis on individuality and self-expression is something that has inspired me. In San Francisco, people are not afraid to be themselves, whether it’s through fashion, career choices, or activism. This environment has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and try new things, like joining student clubs and participating in discussions I might have avoided before.
Another major change in me is that I’ve become more comfortable taking risks. Before this experience, I liked to play it safe, sticking to what was familiar and predictable. But studying abroad has taught me the value of stepping out of my comfort zone. Whether it’s striking up a conversation with strangers, trying unfamiliar foods, or signing up for activities I never would have considered before, I’ve learned that taking risks often leads to the best experiences. I’ve grown comfortable with uncertainty, and that’s a skill I know will serve me well in the future.
One particular experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone was my first solo trip. I had always traveled with friends or family, but one weekend, I decided to explore a nearby town on my own. At first, I was nervous, what if I got lost? What if something went wrong? But as the day went on, I realized how empowering it was to be completely in control of my own experience. I could move at my own pace, visit the places that interested me, and reflect on my thoughts without distraction. That trip made me realize that I don’t always need to rely on others to have a great experience, and since then, I’ve embraced solo adventures with confidence.
Of course, one of the best parts of this journey has been the people I’ve met. From fellow exchange students to American classmates, I’ve formed friendships that I know will last a lifetime. There’s something special about connecting with people who are also navigating the challenges of living in a foreign country. These friendships have made the tough moments easier and the good moments even better, and I know that no matter where life takes me next, I’ll always have a global network of friends.
Studying abroad has changed me in ways I never expected. It has made me more independent, broadened my worldview, deepened my appreciation for home, and encouraged me to take more risks. Most importantly, it has shown me that I am capable of adapting to new environments and embracing new challenges. This experience has not only given me academic knowledge but has also taught me life lessons that I wouldn’t have learned otherwise.
For anyone considering studying abroad, do it. It won’t always be easy, but I promise it will be worth it. The challenges will help you grow, the experiences will shape you, and the memories will stay with you forever. Looking back, I can confidently say that this journey has been one of the best decisions of my life, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.