Studying abroad during fall semester may sound unappealing to some, but there’s a boatload of perks just waiting for you to discover!
If you’re heading to the southern hemisphere like I did, then you’re in luck. I arrived at the University of Auckland during the tail-end of New Zealand’s winter season, which consisted of a mild 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. Although I missed a bit of summer in the US, I’m now enjoying New Zealand’s lovely late spring, early summer weather. I’m able to hit the beach after class or for a study sesh! The seasons being flipped is a bit of an adjustment, but I’m not complaining about waiting just a bit longer to put on a heavy coat in DC.
Beyond weather, heading away during fall semester means you won’t miss out on the best DC activities that take place in the spring! The Cherry Blossom Festival draws people to the District from all across the globe, making the city a bustling center of culture and celebration. My favorite event is the Blossom Kite Festival; I love seeing the sky around the Washington Monument smattered with colorful kites soaring from every angle. Another spring perk is the National Arboretum. As one of my other favorite DC Spring™ activities, the arboretum offers a relaxing walk through gorgeous flora as it heads into bloom. It’s truly a less explored DC must, and I’m glad I’ll be back for it. Although heading abroad is certainly cool, I can’t say I wouldn’t feel a pang in my heart if I missed seeing all of the beautiful kites, trees, and flowers of DC’s springtime.
Even more exciting, I’m heading back to DC for my last semester of undergrad! I am beyond thrilled to transition from a semester abroad into a semester of celebration and achievement. If you are heading into your last year of undergrad, consider heading abroad for the fall! It is an incredible way to break up your studies at GW and explore the world a bit before you graduate. That way, you can spend the first part of your senior year having a blast across the globe, and then return to DC and finish out your journey at GW with a bang!
Carson Davis
Fall 2023
GW Exchange - University of Auckland
Elliott School of International Affairs
International Affairs Major