When I decided to study abroad one spring, I had to weigh the pros and cons of the decision. People who study abroad typically get worse grades abroad than at home because of the educational and cultural differences, so I had to consider the risk to my GPA. I also had to consider how expensive it would be to live abroad without being allowed to have a job, so there was a financial risk as well. On top of this, when studying abroad at this particular university, because of the difference in education, I was allowed to take only 3 courses, which was significant to me because I already was on a strict schedule from switching majors so late in my college career. So I also had to consider the risk of cramming my schedule with difficult classes in my senior year. But I knew that this was going to be a life-changing experience that I may never get to participate in again. So I took the risk and studied abroad. Now, I have that experience, and it has prepared me better for my career. It shows that I can overcome great challenges and have been immersed into foreign culture, which is important in my career in the art industry.