There were many times where I was required to cooperate with others, and I learned a lot during each of these experiences. During the simulation class, myself and Alexa were paired up with two third-year Coventry nursing students. As we started getting more comfortable with the other nursing students, we started collaborating with them on the simulations (because they were receiving a grade for the skills they show during the simulation). We were able to work well with the other nursing students through communication and more confidence in our skills. I really enjoyed the simulation experience because we got to work with other nursing students and see what and how they learn. It was also interesting to learn about their experience in nursing school from their perspective. Being able to connect with the students was something I really enjoyed and found very insightful. 

               Another time that stood out to me was our first lecture, which was on networking. Although the class itself was interesting, I particularly liked getting to know the international students that were attending Coventry. They all had different reasons for studying there and were all from different countries. And although I may not have been the same major as them, I was able to connect with them by working together in groups or talking on an individual basis when we started networking. I was thankful for the opportunity to get to know people from such different backgrounds because I would not have met such a diverse group of people had I not taken part in this course.

               Through this study abroad experience, I learned a lot about myself. I realized that one of the reasons I love traveling is I am constantly learning something new. Whether it be the people of that country, the culture, a new site, or information about the city/country/food, there is always something new to learn while traveling. And to look at it in a broader sense, I learned that I love learning. I realized that it is why I enjoy the hobbies I take part in—spending time with friends and family, reading, watching sports—I am always learning something new when I do these activities. I think this will help me have a new perspective on the courses I am taking in the fall and school in general. Instead of looking at hours of studying as something I have to do, I can look at it as an opportunity to learn new things or learn more about subjects I am interested in. Having this renewed look at something I may have dreaded will help me be more focused and excited to take part in. I think this change of attitude will also help me be more successful in pursuing my goals, because rather than focused on the negatives, I will be focused on the positives.

             And this is all thanks to my experience abroad. I was so excited for each lecture I attended and activity I took part in because I was excited to learn. I was not worried about copying down everything into my notes, future exams, or even grades; and I think this change of attitude helped me to be more focused on the lecture and learn more than I would have if I spent that time worrying. Being in a different setting and even a different country may have helped too, but I think this change of attitude and focus on learning really made the difference.