Moving Abroad at 13: A Life-Changing Decision
When I was 13 years old, I made one of the most defining decisions of my life: I left Rome, Italy, to study at a boarding school in the English countryside, in Surrey—more precisely, in the town of Godalming.
Godalming is a small, peaceful town located near Guildford, in south-west England. Coming from Rome—a large, vibrant city filled with family, friends, and familiarity—this move was a drastic transition. I arrived in a completely new environment, far from home, without knowing anyone.
At the time, it felt overwhelming. But looking back, it was one of the most transformative experiences I could have had.
What Studying Abroad Really Teaches You
Living abroad at such a young age forced me to grow quickly. It taught me lessons that no classroom ever could:
- How to build independence
- How to adapt to new environments
- How to form meaningful relationships from scratch
- How to manage daily life on my own (including cooking!)
These experiences shaped not only my academic path but also my identity.
Studying abroad is often seen as a strategic move for one’s career—and it certainly can be. However, in my view, its real value lies in personal development. You learn new languages, new routines, and new ways of thinking. You discover resilience, adaptability, and self-awareness.
Of course, it is not always easy. Feelings such as nostalgia, loneliness, and uncertainty are part of the process. But these challenges are precisely what make the experience so powerful.
As of 2024, I am continuing this journey at ESCP Business School—an institution that reflects the same international mindset that shaped my earlier years.
The Idea Behind GR Stories
This is exactly why, together with a group of peers, I created GR Stories.
We wanted to build a platform that answers a simple but profound question:
What does it truly mean to live and study abroad?
Many students ask themselves this before taking the leap. Others are already abroad and wonder if what they are experiencing is “normal.”
GR Stories exists to bridge that gap.
What Is GR Stories?
GR Stories is more than just a blog. It is a global repository of real student experiences.
On our platform, students from around the world can share:
- Their personal journeys living abroad
- Travel experiences and cultural insights
- Daily student life
- Recipes and lifestyle tips
- Lessons learned from stepping outside their comfort zone
The goal is to create a space where experiences—both positive and challenging—are shared openly and honestly.
Why GR Stories Matters
We believe that no student should feel alone in their experience abroad.
While every journey is unique, there are common emotional and personal patterns that connect us all. Whether it is the excitement of a new beginning, the difficulty of adapting, or the growth that follows, these stories matter.
GR Stories encourages students to:
- Overcome fear and uncertainty
- Embrace new opportunities
- Reflect on their personal growth
- Learn from others’ experiences
In a world that is increasingly global, understanding these journeys is more important than ever.
You Are Not Alone
If you are currently studying abroad—or thinking about it—know this:
What you are feeling has been felt by others before you.
That is precisely why this platform exists.
Take your time to explore the stories on our website. And if you would like to contribute, share feedback, or suggest ideas, we would love to hear from you.
GR Stories is not just for us as writers—it is for every student navigating life away from home.
