Alex moved to France to study abroad and returned to California for University. She knew this trip was not the ‘be all and end all’ of her travels.

About Alex

Alex, 25, is a self-proclaimed lifelong explorer who has started her own website design business, Alex Morton Creative, to achieve her dream of working remotely from anywhere in the world.

Over on her blog, she delves deep into life- and entrepreneurial stories and she loves meeting and connecting with other female travellers, business owners, and wanderlusters.

Alex, originally from California, has always been called to France - from the language to the culture to the appreciation of the simple things. Her life in France began in 2013 when she arrived in Paris to study for a semester. She later returned and 'cemented' herself into her life in France. Since then, Alex has been au pairing, teaching English, falling in love and is now making arrangements to become a full resident!

“Put yourself out there for opportunities but do not stress out if it doesn’t work out.”

— Alex Morton

When coming home...

Emotions Alex faced - Found it to be like a puzzle on how to fit back in with her community, friends and family, including how her thinking had shifted.
What changed for Alex - Was really excited to come back to take advantage of her university experience. Had a feeling that she would return to France.
The biggest stress - Getting caught up in the different identities that she had in different communities and how she would show up in the world.
How Alex supported herself - Focused on university, found people that she could talk to and who could relate to her. Pick and choose who support you.
How Alex used her mindset - Aimed to feel comfortable and feel grounded in a place that is not her home. Not feeling like you have to stay in the town where you grew up.
3 Lessons learned from travel and reverse culture shock

Be adaptable and be open to experiences.
Cultivate relationships you have with your friends and family.
Treat everyone as an adventure and be ok with not knowing.

Advise to herself for returning home - Dont stress about having a plan in place because everything will change. Put yourself out there for opportunities but do not stress out if it doesn’t work out.