College is an exciting time for anyone lucky enough to take part in it. But it is expensive. Whether it's campus housing, books, general tuition, dining options, or any of a dozen other college expenses, these things add up. These expenses pile up at a time when young people are least able to pay for them.

As kids, we never had to budget. And life was good. I started learning about budgeting when I became a fresh(wo)man in college. Initially, I was petrified of that word. I learned about bank accounts, food expenses, saving money (what little I had), and even balancing checkbooks. I started working two months after my 15th birthday so I could pay my phone bill. I really wanted a cell phone, but also understood that my dad was a single parent and I needed to help wherever I could.

I’ll never forget my first visit to a night market in Taiwan. It was a total affront on all senses. Too many people jostling for space; too many unrecognizable odors drifting through the air; too many animal organs skewered and on display for growling bellies.

While I was studying abroad, getting to class was just part of my day to day activities in order to be in class. But, looking back, getting to class was part of the adventure as well. You don’t consider the small details until you reflect on your time abroad. Although it took me almost an hour to get to class, I had come to really enjoy my commute because I was able to exercise, spend time outside, and meet new people. So don’t fret if you end up living in a different area of London! It's doable, and a very interesting journey.