It always feels good to return home, no matter how wonderful the experience abroad was. I know for a fact I was ready to sleep in my own bed and pet my kitty, Honey (pictured below). However, after being abroad once, I have the urge to go abroad more. This experience has sparked the desire to travel more, and see more places. To experience cultures and communities I have never seen before. I have always been more of a home body, never one to step out of my comfort zone, and while this has not completely changed, I now have a new respect for things I am not comfortable with/used to. I have a newfound respect for going abroad and learning from people different from myself. Not only did I learn a lot in London on my study abroad, but I went to Paris after the conclusion of the program for some self exploration, and it. Was. WONDERFUL! I had only left the country twice before this trip, once to go to Ireland when I was four, and once to go to Canada last summer. I do not remember much from Ireland, but I can confidently say three days in Niagara Falls did not in any way prepare me for Paris, with the culture shock and language barrier. The experience was well worth the risk, though. This summer is one I will never forget. Even more than the experience, I made what I already know will be a lifelong friend on the journey. The days in London and Paris brought us super close together, and helped us to bond quickly in a way I do not do with many people. This friendship has lasted since returning home, visiting each other every weekend, and I am confident it will continue to grow.
