From the Editor’s Desk: Commerce Examine Overseas for Solo Journey

When I dedicated to Loyola, one of many issues I used to be most enthusiastic about was the prospect of learning overseas. When I began lessons, nonetheless, I rapidly grew to become conscious of a alternative I must make. 

I may both be an editor at The Phoenix, or I may reside out my Roman goals on the John Felice Rome Center with my mates. 

You’ll possible not discover it surprising — primarily based on our weekly interplay by way of this text — to be taught I selected to present my time to The Phoenix. People ceaselessly ask me if I’ve regretted this choice, and my reply is at all times the identical.

“No. Not studying abroad doesn’t mean you can’t still travel.” 

It’s straightforward to really feel like your solely choices for journey as a 20-something-year-old in school are to check overseas or journey with mates, however this turns into difficult when you may have different commitments and your mates — and also you — have very empty financial institution accounts. 

There’s truly a 3rd possibility: solo journey. The terrifying, exhilarating, life-altering expertise that’s solo journey is one you shouldn’t permit to cross you by. It can, undoubtedly, be costly, however with correct budgeting, a very good backpack and the best mindset, I promise the expertise will probably be value your whereas. 

I used to be lucky and privileged sufficient to take three solo journeys in 2025. One by way of Spain throughout winter break, one other by way of Italy over spring break and the third by way of Ireland which I just lately returned from. Each of them gave me a brand new listing of mates from everywhere in the world, recollections I’ll spend the remainder of my life considering and speaking about and a worldview that’s been modified for the higher. 

If you ever really feel trapped by American politics, schoolwork, obligations or the dread of what’s to return after commencement, think about a visit alone. I can virtually assure you it’ll be one of many least lonely experiences you ever have. 

This week in The Phoenix, the primary since getting back from winter break, learn concerning the good and the dangerous of “homeless chic” in opinion, hear concerning the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Walk for Warmth in information, make amends for the happenings of the lads’s basketball staff in sports activities and prepare for the Grammy’s with our workers’s predictions in arts.