Too Old for Study Abroad? Not with WMU!

Heather Mauney
Youth and Community Development, Gerontology minor
Perspectives on Aging in Ireland, Summer II 2019

My biggest fear (well, one of them) going into a study abroad program was my age. Unlike my other travel-mates, I am almost 40. How would other students react to having me on the trip? Would I be viewed as the “mother” of the group? Would the other students even want me there? What would we talk about? What could we possibly have in common? All of these fears, and more, wracked my brain. I was hesitant to even apply for study abroad because of my age, even though it had always been on my bucket list. Above the opportunity to travel to exotic places, study abroad seemed like the ideal way to truly experience and learn about another culture and people while also enriching my own educational experience.

I had the opportunity to participate in study abroad nearly 20 years ago and didn’t. I didn’t want to miss out on another such opportunity. I spoke with the faculty advisor before applying and she encouraged to put my fears aside and go for it. I talked to friends and family and they said I’d be crazy to not apply. In a moment of clarity (or complete craziness, depending on who you ask), I applied for a spot in the Summer II International Perspectives of Older Adults in Ireland program and was accepted.

I have already met some lovely people who have made me feel nothing but welcome. I head to Dublin in two days and couldn’t be more excited. This trip will not only enrich my education and understanding to make me a better, stronger professional, it is also teaching me that you are never too old to go after your dreams.

Categories: Western Europe, Ireland, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Adjusting to new surrounding, Advice, Fears and excitement, Making the decision to study abroad, Nervousness, Overcoming challenges, Personal growth, Pre-departure, Summer II.