Saturday, 5.25.19
Coming into college, the one thing I knew that I wanted to do was study abroad. My dad would always roll his eyes and jokingly scold me, saying I should pick a school for its academic merit rather than its study abroad program. While I knew he was right, and often reasoned with myself that being in such a credit-intensive major I most likely wouldn’t have time to do so, it has always in the back of my mind. Time passed and I experienced many obstacles. In my four years of undergrad thus far I have attended three different colleges, taken on numerous difficult science classes, joined a sorority, and took on a leadership position organizing a university-wide event. I have pushed myself academically and personally, participating in every experience I can.
When the opportunity presented itself to be able to study abroad for two weeks working at a zoo, I knew that an experience I could not miss out on. Sitting in the Miami airport terminal right now en route to Belize, I have so many different emotions.
I am grateful to be able to study abroad in spite of my busy schedule. I am nervous to embark on a brand new experience that is entirely out of my comfort zone. I am scared of being home sick. But most importantly, I am excited for my adventure.
As a kid, I used to watch a show called “Adventure Camp,” in which a group of kids just a little bit older than me got to go to an aquarium in Florida and have behind the scenes experiences working with the animals. I remember being awestruck, thinking of how incredible that must have been, but thinking that I myself could never do that because I was not brave enough.
With each obstacle I have had to overcome these past four years, I’ve been surprised by my own resilience. I continually push myself out of my comfort zone, no matter the consequences, and each time it has led me to be one step closer to the person I strive to be.
I cannot wait to go on this adventure, and be able to share it with those who have encouraged me to take this next step.
Have a great time! Love, Bop