Dear Pre-departure self,

As I sit here, in a city as old as time, I reflect upon my last 4 months here. I am filled an array of emotions—nostalgia, curiosity, gratitude, sadness, and happiness. The person you are now has been shaped and molded by experiences, challenges, and obstacles of living in a foreign environment. It is a testament to the growth that this global experience has offered you.

         One of the most profound ways you’ve matured is your ability to grow while being independent. Being away from family, and friends, you’ve still been able to flourish and learn more about yourself than you could have if you remained in your comfort zone. Venturing out, getting lost, and discovering new places is the key to learning how to be independent. Immersing yourself lets you adapt and create new comfort zones in different areas and with different types of people.

Looking back to my pre-departure self, there are for sure things I wish I’d known before taking such a big leap in my college career. I wish I’d realize the importance of spontaneity while visiting new countries or cities. I have learned that some of the most memorable moments while traveling have been the ones that weren’t planned. On top of that, some of the best ones were when things went wrong and we had to improvise, like getting on the wrong train and ending up in Rome at 12am on a Sunday. Although it might be a problem in the moment, it is important to be able look back at that moment and laugh.

The most surprising aspect of this global experience has been the connections I’ve made with both the people and Florence. Walking along the thousand-year-old cobble stoned streets, I am able to enjoy the warm smiles of people to the beauty of the Renaissance art I pass on my walk to class. I have formed friendships that trump language and culture barriers, constantly reinforcing that there’s a universal language of kindness and happiness.  

One piece of advice I’d give to my pre-departure self is wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, or whoever you’re with, stop everything for a few minutes, sit in silence and take in a moment of appreciation (or MoA). Traveling to 13 different countries, as of when I write this, has taught me the importance of cherishing everything that has allowed you to get you to where you are in that moment. Appreciate everything your family has done for you, the time you’ve put into working, the opportunities you’ve had in life.

Good luck on your travels,

Thanos