Gandalf: If you do come back, you will not be the same. Its hard to overstate the value of immersing yourself in a totally new culture. Its an explosive experience, as every aspect of your daily life is different the weather, the food, the people, the work. It may surprise you how something you take completely for granted is unknown to these people. It can also be truly liberating to strike out on your own. While its sad to (temporarily) leave your buddies behind, its also an opportunity for a fresh start. While youre with your family and childhood friends, it might be a bit hard to escape from the image they have of you, which was formed years ago. Abroad you can reinvent yourself, and you might realise youve changed quite a bit. You can discover a whole new side of your personality; one which is unhampered by the expectations and preconceived ideas of those around you, and thats no bad thing. Of course, Im not claiming that living abroad isnt challenging (especially the first time), but thats part of the fun. If youre not testing yourself, you really dont know what youre capable of, and living abroad will offer you a challenge like no other. Youll have incredible highs and lows; youll meet people who youll remember all your life, and the experience will undoubtedly change you. Some people are positively terrified of the idea of leaving their country, but the truth is that its not all that scary and there are countless rewards for that leap of faith. If youre interested, click Next to find out how its done.