Hi!!
Wow, what a wild trip this has been.
This was my first time to Europe, and even out of the country, so I learned so so much. I realized how different environments may affect me and how I need time to adjust. Many nights I couldn’t sleep much because I was so excited to see and do more things (plus the time difference).
I gained more independence but also learned just how much I thrive doing things with others. I strengthened many other interpersonal skills, as well as really thought about my personal brand.
With much free time and relaxed academic expectations at times, it was sometimes difficult to balance the leisure aspect with the study abroad aspect.
I had so much fun dancing my heart out at clubs with my friends at night, and also taking in as much knowledge and culture as I could each day.
My world felt different, and I loved it. The people were so kind, fun, and respectful. The food. The architecture and language. I loved not understanding it all, but embracing it anyways.
As for a few other extra activities I did on the trip that I didn’t mention, I would say the biggest was seeing a live orchestra at the Klementinum cathedral. It was such a surreal and beautiful experience.
I kept the final day a bit more laid-back, but the one extra activity I did the last day was ice-skating with a couple new friends from the group. It was a great way to spend our last few free hours together!
Then, the dinner cruise closed out the trip! All of the food was amazing. I also tried Belgian hot chocolate on a stick, and even got myself a second glass of it! This night felt nostalgic and peaceful.
I enjoyed the laughs and deep conversations as we all had our last meal together. Ru, Jess, Jasmine, and I really bonded when we discussed what travel means to us and how the trip made us feel.
Ru said she loves the feeling of melancholy when a trip is ending, because you know it was great. She’s traveled a lot, and I was in awe of how she doesn’t feel sad every time she leaves a place. But she said that’s the point, and then to keep exploring new places and keeping those memories with you when you leave.
Jess acknowledged how honored she was to have an opportunity that no one else can experience the same way we did. I was feeling bummed, but then my spirits lifted and I felt quite humbled and grateful for everything.
I suddenly knew that our time in Prague was really fleeting, but I was also starting to imagine just how wonderful it would be to come back and continue my chapter here, or even in another place in Europe.
The world is so vast and feels infinite, so I know my travels are only beginning.
I truly look forward to studying abroad in the future.
THANK YOU professors, Petr, friends, and all those involved in this experience!
Until next time,
-Liv