Reflecting on Goals

    Prior to arriving in Italy for study abroad, I had a lot of goals and expectations. I wanted to maintain an open mind, be curious, participate, and make more relationships with peers and instructors. I think my expectations were far exceeded and I made the best memories that will last a lifetime. My one hope is that the relationships I have made on this trip stay steady and we can continue to be close once we get back home. This was one of the best experiences I have ever had, and I knew that before I even left that it would be. 

    This experience was simply life changing and exceeded all of my goals and expectations. I made so many new friends and deepened my friendships with others. Honestly, I was not expecting to connect with everyone as quickly as we did, but it made it that much more special and now I am sad to leave everyone. I think another thing that was exceeded was my expectations of others. Everyone was so kind, inclusive, and attentive. I think that since everyone was able to drop their cool as Quy says made the experience so much more awesome.

    I learned so much about myself throughout this trip which I am grateful for. I learned that I am a quiet leader that will speak up when needed, am always thinking I can do more, and am dedicated to everything I do. I also learned that I am a perfectionist based off of my enneagram, but I knew that I like things to be perfect. Throughout this trip I was able to push myself out of my comfort zone. This was one of my goals and I think it helped me to realize that not everything must be done perfectly. There is beauty in imperfection, and I am glad that I was able to learn that on this trip. 

    If I could give a piece of advice to someone attending this experience next year, I would tell them to fully take in the experience the entire time. Do not let the fact that you may not know a lot of people going be the reason why you do not have a great time. You will make friends, and the experience will change your life if you let it. Sometimes the best experiences happen when we least expect them. Be all in, be present, and enjoy it because it goes by fast. 



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