The night before I left for the States, I got maybe two hours of sleep because I didn't want that time to pass. Instead, I stayed up talking to my friends and family until about 3 AM, having to wake up at 4:30 AM...it was rough! We took a very crowded bus to the Rome airport and boarded our plane for an 11 hour flight home. Once we landed in Chicago, we hustled our way through customs and security in order to make it onto our respective flights home. Once we were through security, I was headed for the G gates while everyone else in my group was headed to gates J-M; these were of course split up so I had to walk to G alone while everyone else could savor their last few minutes or hours together. I hugged everyone goodbye and practically ran to my Dayton-bound flight. When I made it to the gate, there was already a line to start boarding! I was so stressed. I landed and made my way to baggage claim to see my family for the first time in 6 weeks. They were very excited...I only kind of was! I was happy to see them, but I did not want to be home. We then went home and ate Chinese food (THANK GOD), I handed out their souvenirs, and then I went to bed, MY bed!!!
Reflecting back on this trip, I consider how stupid it was to be so nervous about not knowing anyone or the language. This was the best experience I have ever had! I would definitely encourage everyone to take the opportunity to study abroad if ever given the chance. It may cost more than you want to spend, but it WILL be worth it; I now have friends all over the country and stories to last a lifetime. I can't stop reminiscing. In fact, yesterday was my birthday, and in honor of my trip to Zinzinnati's sister city Munich, my family went to the Hofbrauhaus Cincinnati. More sausage and potatoes!
Travel Bucket List:
ALL OTHER COUNTRIES
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