Howdy
Oh my word has it actually been six weeks?! I guess time truly does fly when you are having fun. I am currently in the airport writing this and for some reason it is just so surreal. I never thought the day of me departing from my study abroad would ever arrive. I will forever be in mourning of this era and period of my life with strangers who would become family.
Over the course of this program I have witnesssed multiple changes within myself. The biggest one would be a fluctuation of my self confidence in my abilities to navigate the world. Upon entering Europe for the first time I knew everything would be so foreign. I had prepared for this kind of exposure from the culture, people, food, language, and straight up navigating where to go. As I learned this new setting around me I felt like I was also learning more about myself like: What I felt comfortable with. What I did not feel comfortable with. What I enjoyed eating and what I did not. I felt as I progressed in my walk with the program I also progressed within the walk within myself. This reminded me greatly of the very first lecture we had from Dr. Wasser about the Hero's Journey. I am more than blessed to have been able to embark on this journey of self discovery.
Advice I would give to myself would be go into everything witha. positive attitude. I would also tell myself to participate in every single thing even if I did not feel like it. I would put an extreme emphasis on making the most out of every situation and every experience. In advance I would like for my past self to know not to pack so much. Unfortunately when A&M said to bring double the amount of money and half of what we think we should oacj they were not kidding.
Ultimately, what I gained from this trip is not tangible nor conveyable. The friends and memories I made are some that I intend to carry for the rest of my life. I am beyond greatful for the experience and the people that made the program. To be surrounded by a cocktail or different personailites and various perspectives was so beautiful and stimulating. I loved this trip. I love the people. And I hate to say it but I love Bonn Germany.
Thanks & gig'em,
Victoria Gomez
Hey Victoria! I couldn't agree more with your advice. Myself from six weeks ago needed this blog post. Looking back, I am realizing just how important it is to make the most of every situation and keep a positive attitude. It changes the experience entirely. I am so glad I got the experience this trip with you!
ReplyDeleteHi Victoria! Wow how are we already done with this trip? I completely agree with all of your advice. I think we all learned that the best memories come from the times when we made spontaneous decisions with a positive attitude. I am so glad we became such good friends on this trip and that we got to experience all the adventures together! Can’t wait for all of our hang outs in Cstat!
ReplyDeleteVictoria!!! This is the sweetest post; y'all really are so like family to me now it is crazy. This group of people you termed "cocktail" could not have been more perfect. We had lots of different perspectives and beliefs, but I think every single person on this trip has a deep sense of empathy and respect to where all conversations are on the table. I think that is such a cool, bonding environment, and in agreement, I am just so thankful. Love you and cant wait for class together!
ReplyDeleteA&M was not lying about bringing double the amount of money but it was truly all worth it. Experiencing different things than you're used to helps you to learn so much about yourself. I would have never thought that I would be a person that enjoys the sauna but here I am. I am going to miss this group and certainly miss Germany. See you in College Station.
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