The document discusses the author's experience studying abroad in Belgium, comparing their expectations to the reality. While expecting freedom, independence, and excitement, the author experienced culture shock, less freedom than expected, and different values and expectations. However, the author also learned a new language, more about themselves and their capabilities, and how to adapt. The document prompts discussion questions about studying abroad experiences and college course selections.

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Education & Studying Abroad

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My Experience In Belgium!
Why did I choose Belgium?

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What I Expected:
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Freedom
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Independence
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Constant excitement
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One Year of Happiness
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Acceptance

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What Really Happened:
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Culture Shock
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Less freedom
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Different Values
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Different Expectations
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Building Trust

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What I learned:
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A new language
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A lot about myself
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What I am capable of
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What I really “need”
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How to run

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In Pairs:
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Have you ever studied abroad?
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If you have not studied abroad, would you? What would you
study?
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What would you expect your experience to be like?
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What would be your biggest fears about studying abroad?
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What would you expect to gain from your experience?

7. +
In Pairs:
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What did you study in college? Why?
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What was your most challenging class?
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What was your favorite class?
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Who was your most difficult professor? Why?
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Who was your favorite professor? Why?
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If you could go back in time, what would you study? Would it
the same subject or a different one?