How to keep your study abroad memories alive

Words and photos by Gianna Messia, who studied abroad with ASA in Florence during the fall semester of 2004.

Studying abroad is one of those rare chapters of your life that feels almost unreal once it’s over. You land back in the United States, and suddenly you're back to your 8 am class and Dunkin' iced coffee. Am I right?

One day you're exploring a new city. Next, you’re back home trying to keep those memories alive by fitting those experiences into your “normal” routine. While the program may end, the memories don’t have to fade. Keeping your study abroad memories alive is about more than nostalgia; it’s about honoring how much you grew and letting those experiences continue to shape who you are as a person.

Journaling is a powerful way to protect all your special moments. Little details you may not even remember a week from them happening. Even if you didn’t journal while abroad, it’s not too late to start. Write about your favorite countries, the challenges you faced, the cultural surprises you didn’t expect, and how you changed as a person. You can also write letters to your “past self” who just arrived in the new country, or to your “future self” reminding them of all that you learned. Writing can help turn scattered memories into a meaningful storyline.

It is so important to stay connected with the people who made your experience special. Friendships that are formed abroad are unique. They are built on new experiences and butterflies. Keep those connections alive through texting, video calls, and occasional reunions if possible. Even small check-ins can help you feel that studying abroad is still an active part of your life. One fun thing my friends and I do is send “1 year ago today” memories to remind us of what we were doing exactly at that moment. 

Even though your friends and family may not have been abroad with you, it is helpful to talk about all your experiences and “wins” during your time abroad. Share your story with others. Talk about your favorite restaurants and shops with those who are considering studying abroad themselves. One amazing part of coming home from studying abroad was working alongside ASA as an alumna. I am able to create posts for social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, along with writing blog posts such as this one! Creating social media content has allowed me to give my story a purpose for others to enjoy and be inspired. Another important part of coming home from studying abroad was informing your home institution and other students looking into studying abroad. I was given the opportunity to present to multiple classrooms and at the study abroad fair in order to promote ASA. Seeing other students' eyes light up at your pictures and ask you questions about your time overseas is an extremely special feeling. 

It is also great to use what you learned to shape your future. Studying abroad isn’t just about where you went, but who you became. Did it make you more independent than you were before? Maybe more open-minded, or confident? Let those changes guide your decisions. Travel more, work with international communities, volunteer, or choose a career that connects you globally. Finally, accept that memories evolve. Some details will fade, but what remains is the most special part of the experience. You may not remember what you ate for dinner on your first night in Switzerland, but you may think of the courage it took to step into the uncertainty of living and studying abroad. There is growth that comes from being outside of your comfort zone. Keeping your study abroad memories alive doesn’t mean freezing them in time. It means allowing them to keep growing with you.

Thanks, Gianna!