and so it begins...

Hi Everyone! As I set off on the greatest few months of my life to date, I figured I would keep everyone updated on some sort of blog or website so everyone knew what was going on! I'm going to be pretty busy, so I won't really have time to send emails updating everyone, so I thought this would be the next best thing. I apologize in advance because I am not the best writer, but if you are reading this, thanks so much for being interested in my life, haha!

First off, on Monday, January 9th, I am going to be embarking on my semester abroad! I will be spending my spring semester in London at the Ithaca College London Center. I cannot believe the day has finally come! Ever since I was little and I saw my dad traveling back and forth to London, I decided that I needed to go there. I have loved traveling since I was young. I was no stranger to airplanes, seeing as I had been on more than 80 flights before I was 2. Seeing pictures of Europe and receiving gifts from Harrod's, I knew I had to get there. When I was younger, I heard stories of friends and family spending a semester of college abroad. I instantly knew that I could not possibly pass up an opportunity to spend a semester in another country. Upon looking at Ithaca College, I saw how many awesome programs they offered for studying abroad. I was torn between the Los Angeles Program and London. I decided to stick with my previous plan, and spend a semester in London (although I am lucky enough to also be participating in the LA Program this summer, but that's for later). There has been a lot of preparation that has gone into this and I could not have possibly been ready to leave Monday if not for all the help from my school, my friends and especially my family. Everyone has been giving me tips for how to live in another country, very practical gifts that I know will be put to great use and a lot of suggestions of awesome places to visit! It's finally starting to feel real that I'm leaving! I've said a number of goodbyes already, which although tough, I can't help but remain giddy for what lies ahead! Ithaca has become my second home, so it will definitely be difficult to be away for a semester, but I know it'll be just as great upon my return.

I am so excited to experience all that Europe has to offer. Not only will I be living in a foreign country for a few months, but I will also be taking classes and working at an internship. Aside from experiencing the culture and learning, I am also going to be traveling all over Europe. I think that might be one of the most exciting parts to me; how easy it is to travel to so many different countries. I will be taking a number of trips with my school, as well as excursions on my own with some of my friends.

Living in another country is going to be great. I cannot wait to experience the people, food, drinks and culture in Europe. And as if my journey to Europe wasn't enough, I'll be spending my summer in Los Angeles, also through my school. These next few months are gonna be crazy and I can't wait!