Should I study abroad in England? Or go home?

Question

I am a 25 year old with a 8 year old daughter. I am currently in 3rd year University (Political Science) in Canada and hope to get into law school when I am done. I have been chosen to study abroad in England for 5 months, which is where I am right now visiting friends. My daughter is at home, staying with my parents. She had the choice to come but she wanted to stay with her friends/school/sports/etc. She seems quite happy, although I know she misses me.

So here is my predicament...

I know this exchange will do a lot of great things for me. The very least of which is confidence and self-esteem will go up… which is a major thing for me. It will also demonstrate my flexibility, adaptability, motivation, initiative, independence, self-reliance, responsibility… the list goes on...

But I miss home. I'm having a really hard time being apart from my daughter. We've never spent any significant time apart. Should I power thru and get it over with? Or give in and go home?

Answer 1

I think you should go for it! In the scheme of things, five months really isn't that long but the pay off will be much greater and longer lasting. You will get unique experience that will look great on your cv and it will show someone willing to take a challenge, and all those other things you mentioned. It's not often that people are chosen for such an opportunity and you may regret it if you decide not to do it. It could also put you above others in your aims to get into law school as you will have something different to show for your time at university, and it's unlilkely that most other people will have that experience.

If you are going to be based in London, you could perhaps go and visit the Royal Courts of Justice and the Old Bailey (even if you just stand outside!) as these are famous courts of law, you may even be able to sit in the public gallery during a case.

You already have friends here and you'll be in a country where your mother tongue is spoken so there will be no language problems. In terms of your daughter, yes, of course you must be missing her dreadfully, but she is with family, with people who care for her and love her. Apart from you, you know she is in the next best hands. If your parents are happy to look after her and your daughter is ok, too, you should do it. Also, in these days, you've got email, text, telephone to stay in touch.

Ultimately, it is your decision but I think it would be a small price to pay for a promising future that will benefit both you and your daughter. I imagine as a young mum you have not had much time to yourself, this will give you the time and space to follow your dreams and discover yourself which in turn can only help you and your family. Good luck with whatever you decide!!

Answer 2

Look, you're 25, and for your age, I'm sure you're wanting to travel the world, as much as anybody else your age does!

My point of view is, as much as you have a responsibility to your daughter, you have to remember that you have 2 (or 4 with your parents) rice bowls to take care of, a house over your head and many other problems. As most people would say, go with your heart, but I'd say, go for this exchange. For one, it would open up job opportunities and meeting new people, as well as a different experience to behold.

I'd say 5 months ain't a great deal of time. The pain would smart at first, but we aren't in the stone age. Get a vidcam, and try to spend some time chatting to your daughter over the internet every week. If you don't want to do that, I'm sure you wouldn't mind spending a bit on telephone bills. What really matters is not the time spent together, but the quality time spent together that matters. You'd really have to sit down and talk it through to your daughter, as well as to yourself (in a schizo way maybe?) that you'd have to learn to be more independent. In this way, you can teach your daughter the invaluable experience of having to be independent when she grows older.

Perhaps it is because it's coming from a male point of view, which would seem a bit selfish, but I hope I've given some proper advice. Whatever the decision, it is, always for the better.

Answer 3

Five months doesn't seem like such a long time. You say your confidence and self-esteem will go up, and that can only benefit your daughter in the long run. All the other things too - independence, self-reliance, responsibility. Remember, she is watching you and all the choices you make will influence her when she grows up. It's very likely she will make the same ones.

Maybe this will help - what would you advise your daughter to do were she in the same situation one day?

Answer 4

Both towns are tremendously lovely, however very distinct Some men and women reply a pupil's query as though night time- existence had been the one key aspect, ha ha Obviously, in case your area is historical past - established, each towns might present up plenty of scope I've studied in London and despite the fact that high priced, it used to be special in each and every approach Edinburgh is a town I've visited and idea it dramatic, fashionable , special, and sure, historic ! ( Great at Festival time in the summertime )

Answer 5

Better be with ur child/You will have ample time for everything when she goes away after marriage/If u r a loving mother possibly u can not afford to be away from homely enviorments/Better spend time with ur own people.Once u go away every thing changes.We r humanebeings subject to many pressures.Sometime things go out of your hands.Fact of life

Answer 6

study abroad. this will bring you good things for you and your daughter for long term. if you'll have a better life, she will have one too. it's going to be a bit difficult but go for it!

Answer 7

what ever makes you happy