Small Regrets As I Transition Out Of My Study Abroad Experience

D-23. Just 23 days left. 

As my time in this study abroad experience is coming to an end, I’ve found myself in waves of reflection. There have been moments recently that touched me, enough to sit down and write this, to speak to the version of myself who first arrived here, unsure of what this journey would look like or what it might become. Throughout my time here, I have found so much joy: the many new things that I tried, the experiences that helped me better appreciate the life I’ve been fortunate to live, the delicious food I couldn't get enough of, and most of all, the growth that I experienced in myself. I’m proud of how much I’ve changed. 

Still, I carry a few small regrets—less as burdens, but more as quiet lessons I’ll carry with me into whatever travels come next. 

I wish I’d spoken more Korean, even if it wasn’t perfect.

There is truly no better way to immerse yourself in a language than by living in the country where it’s spoken, and that’s not something to take for granted. Living in South Korea gave me the perfect opportunity to do just that, but I’ll admit, there were times when embarrassment held me back.

I know that not everyone who studies abroad prioritizes language learning, but for me, it was always a goal. Still, it was easy to get comfortable, especially in Seoul, where so many places are English-friendly, or at the very least, you can get by with gestures and pointing. But there’s a different kind of freedom, and deeper connection that comes with speaking the language of the people around you.

Eventually, I challenged myself to do more. I started attending language exchange meetups, and the confidence boost I felt from being surrounded by others also learning korean or practicing their english was unmatched. In those hour-long sessions, I was filling my cup with new expressions and practicing in a calm, encouraging environment.

Some of my favorite memories now are the small conversations — chatting with my building’s security guard, exchanging kind words with older women at restaurant who were always open to talk. It wasn’t about being perfect. It was about showing up, speaking up, and being okay with getting it wrong sometimes.

Looking back, I just wish I had pushed myself more consistently. Because the effort? It’s always noticed. And always appreciated.

I wish I’d made a stronger plan for budgeting..and the unexpected.

Four months sounds like a lot of time, and in so many ways, it is. But when you're living abroad, time and money both move faster than you expect. Even in South Korea, where everyday meals and transit are often affordable, the small things added up fast: paying for laundry, late-night snacks, the fun drinks, health insurance(though not quite small at all), gifts for friends/family, entry fees to parks or events, and spontaneous plans. And then there were the things I did plan for such as day trips/travel, concerts, and clothing that I said yes to because I knew they would help shape my happiest memories and experiences.

And I don’t regret those things, but I do wish I’d had a stronger plan from the start. One that accounted not just for what I knew I’d want, but also for the inevitable surprises that come with living in a new country. So my tips for anyone planning on studying abroad here is to:

1. Do your research ahead of time on local costs: transit, phone plans, sim cards, toiletries, laundry, food expenses. Then add 15–20% on top of that for unexpected costs. Trust me, it’s better to over-prepare.
2. Have a flexible overall budget for "fun" expenses so you're not forced to choose between being responsible and having fun.
3. Whatever you decide to spend your money on, do it for you!! 

I wish I’d taken more pictures of the more ordinary days.

I have tons of photos of palaces, cherry blossoms, night markets, travels and all the obvious highlights. But the stuff I know I will miss the most? My walk to the subway, the state of my desk after a long night, my favorite buildings and spots around campus, the yellow sidewalks and small town buses. The everyday beauty of living in Korea. I wish I’d captured more of that.

Last thoughts

It is certainly not to late for me though. And If you’re thinking about studying abroad, let this be your reminder: it’s not just the big moments that matter. The growth, the joy, and even the small regrets, they all come from the daily life you build while you’re there. So speak the language, even if you mess up, plan for the time there, but leave room for spontaneity. And take pictures of the life you’re quietly making in between everything. Because when the countdown begins, those ordinary moments might be the ones you end up treasuring the most.

Promise☆