I am often asked why I decided to study abroad for a full year. While many factors contributed to my decision, it was largely based on my conversations with other students who only went one semester. Many students shared the common sentiment that the semester was over right at the peak of their love for the country and its people, prompting them to regret not studying for another semester.

So, when the opportunity to study abroad for a year presented itself, I jumped on it. While I don’t regret my decision, I did not anticipate some of the difficulties tethered to it.

Social aspects are the most difficult to adjust to in the transition between semesters. It’s hard to say goodbye to great friends, especially ones that were right there with you on the crazy emotional ride that is studying abroad. Over the semester they became family. We knew our favorite activities, restaurants and outings, and developed a rhythm that is now gone.

As the only student studying at the University of Hyderabad for a year, this also translated to a whole new batch of students to get to know and develop friendships with. Apart from the sheer number of students this semester — 50 instead of last semester’s 15 — they had already spent two weeks together before I arrived back on campus. So in many ways, although I have been living in Hyderabad for six months, I am the outsider.

These initial feelings of seclusion have been gradually eased, not only by beginning to build friendships with this semester’s students, but even more so by my familiarity with the environment and relationships with local students.

The city of Hyderabad and many amazing people I got to know last semester are still here, and there is comfort in that. However, the opportunity to further develop friendships with locals and further explore surroundings are not the only perks to a full year of studying abroad.

Increased confidence in courses and decision-making situations has been an added benefit. I feel more confident in my courses, as I am already used to the methods and expectations of my professors. This makes me a more efficient and successful student, and removes much of the stress due to uncertainty I experienced last semester. One of the top perks for me is the chance to further my Hindi language skills through a second semester of class in its native country.

The opportunity to study abroad is a life-changing experience, and if you are able to prolong it to a year-long program I would highly recommend it. While the experience of living in a country you love for an extended period of time alone is enjoyable enough, the confidence and practical skills gained and friendships made along the way are what really make it worthwhile.

Laura Ellen Brandjord is an NDSU student currently studying in Hyderabad, India. She writes a weekly column on her experiences while abroad.