In the latter half of last year, I decided to take a leap of faith, and study abroad for a semester. And not just a hop across the English Channel in France or Germany – in Malaysia. Literally the other side of the world. A continent I’d never set foot on, a culture I’d never experienced.
Just before I departed and just after arriving, I wondered what on Earth I’d done. After a few days, I stopped wondering.
I was in Malaysia for one university semester to study psychology, but I found that much of what I learned was outside of the classroom. I spoke to wonderful people and found new favourite foods. I adventured around places old and new, hearing languages, picking up customs, and GROWING – physically, mentally and spiritually.
I’m introverted and Neurodivergent, but I still made friends: two fellow students, and a Buddhist nun. I stuck out possibly more than I ever have in my life, and yet I felt a real sense of belonging. All of the people I met helped me see their country more deeply than I could have on my own – and even after months there, I know that I’ve just scratched the surface.
If you or a student you know is considering studying abroad, I unequivocally say: please do!
Terima kasih, Malaysia (and Singapore). I’ll be back.
This is crossposted from my LinkedIn page, which can be found here.
Bonny Hazelwood 