13 Things People Who Have Lived Abroad Know To Be True

There are some things you can't learn in school. So join the Peace Corps, and see where life takes you!

1. You can navigate public transportation in any language.

Liz Highleyman (CC BY http://2.0) / Via Flickr: liz_at_blackrose

It's all about colors, numbers, landmarks, and the kindness of strangers.

2. You're open to whatever new activities may present themselves.

Courtesy of Matt Çetin

"There's something called volcano surfing? Sign me up!"

3. You're great at explaining where you come from to the people you meet.

Courtesy of Lauren Burke

Just think big buildings full of tiny, overpriced apartments; people who text while walking really fast; and pizza places that stay open until 3 a.m!

4. And you people-watch like a pro.

Chris Waits /(CC BY http://2.0)/ Flickr: chriswaits

There's no better way to familiarize yourself with a different culture than through simple observation. And you never know what special moment you may witness. :)

5. You constantly challenge your understanding of "normal..."

Chris Eason (CC BY http://2.0) / Via Flickr: mister-e

Pedestrian may be a much more inclusive term!

6. ...and of what you consider beautiful.

William Murphy (CC BY-SA http://2.0) / Flickr: infomatique

Gianluca Colla / Getty Images

You could turn a corner and suddenly be completely humbled.

7. You enjoy your own company.

Courtesy of Nathan Paterson

When you don't have your best friends and family around you 24/7, you learn to make your own fun...and take comfort in it.

8. You see food as an opportunity to be adventurous.

bigbirdz (CC BY http://2.0) / Via Flickr: bigbirdz

Yep, you've once seen what's now in your dish crawling up a glass water tank at a zoo. Bottoms up!

9. Being able to laugh at yourself is key.

Courtesy of Abigail Glerum

It makes it easier to step out of your comfort zone (and into a mysterious new zone full of possibilities!).

10. You celebrate people's differences and simultaneously realize just how much everyone has in common.

Courtesy of Lauren Burke

It's a beautiful paradox.

11. You can miss home and love where you are simultaneously.

Courtesy of Nathan Paterson

And it makes you appreciate everything even more.

12. You know how to change up a comfortable routine.

Jupiterimages / Getty Images

Walking to work suddenly looks very different.

13. And above all, you know there's nothing like immersing yourself in a culture entirely different than your own.

Swissmediavision / Getty Images

You only hope that you've enriched people's lives as much as they've enriched yours.

There's nothing quite like it! Join the Peace Corps today, and start your journey.

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