Describe a time when you changed your mind about something

I'd like to talk about a time when I changed my mind about studying abroad. For years, I was convinced that it wasn't for me. I thought that it was too expensive, and that I'd feel lonely in a country where I knew nobody. I was quite comfortable in my hometown, with my family and friends, so I never seriously considered leaving.

Things started to change when I was twenty-two. My cousin, who had always been rather shy, went to study in Poland, and I assumed that she'd return after a few months. Instead, she called me every few weeks and described how much she was learning, not only in class, but about living independently and meeting people from different cultures. Then I visited her for a week during the summer. I saw how happy she was, and I met her international friends, who were friendly and curious. I also realised that scholarships exist, which I hadn't known about before.

When I went back home, I couldn't stop thinking about it. I spent several weeks weighing up the pros and cons, and I spoke to my parents, who were surprisingly supportive. Finally, I decided to apply for a scholarship programme, and I was accepted a few months later.

I felt a mixture of nervousness and excitement. I admit it was hard to accept that I'd been wrong earlier, but I'm glad I stayed open-minded. In hindsight, it's one of the best decisions I've made. It taught me that it's better to change your mind than to stay stuck with an idea just because it's familiar.