Pre-departure Reflection

     In preparation to study abroad in Amsterdam I read the first chapter of Shelley Story's book, "Prepare for Departure". In this chapter, Story gives many tips and tricks to make the most out of the study abroad experience as well as questions to ask yourself before traveling such as, "who am I? What do I value? What do I want out of this experience? What kind of traveler am I? What are my boundaries and limitations? and finally, what are my worries and fears? 

    Story writes about how the questions, who am I? and what do I value? can be refined and revised over your lifetime, but it is important to start thinking about them for the sake of self-development. She advises people to ask themselves these questions each morning and night and to notice when your answers change over time (Story, 2016).  As I started thinking about these questions, I realized that I really value relationships that I have, and most of my self-image is related to being a good friend and family member. I see myself as someone who works hard to make others happy and comfortable, however I want to work on being more assertive. I am a shy person, especially around new people, and I am hoping I can come out of my shell and learn how to be more confident while traveling.

    Story writes about how people should plan their travels around what type of traveler they are, as well as the types of travelers they are traveling with. I am a very go-with-the-flow traveler, or as Story labels it, a "sponge", but I also enjoy small breaks where I can wonder without set plans. I really want to "soak it all in" and take in new cultures and sights. (Story. 2016). I also believe I will be a good travel partner to my friends, who are more schedule oriented. As someone who is willing to go and see anything, I don't think there will be many disagreements or need for major compromises. 

    Lastly, Story writes of the importance to know your limits and think about your worries and fears. She writes about possible scenarios, such as classmates putting themselves in vulnerable situations in unfamiliar settings (Story, 2016). Thinking about my own limits and fears, I realized that I do not want to drink or do any substances, especially while abroad. I also realized that I would not feel comfortable being the only completely sober person in a group. Lastly, my main fear is getting harassed or possibly assaulted, or one of my friends and/or classmates getting harassed or assaulted. To avoid this, I am going to be aware of my surroundings, always travel with at least one other person, and make sure that at least one person in the group is sober. 

Word Count: 469

Honor Code: I have acted with honor and integrity in producing this work and am unaware of anyone who has not. 

Works Cited: Story, S. (2016). Prepare for Departure. Createspace Independent Publishing Platform.