Culture: “I miss home, but not the U.S.” That has been the recurring theme of my time in New Zealand so far. From home-cooked meals to my cozy queen-size bed, home could be anywhere in the world and I would miss it; on the contrary, I definitely need… More
Integration: I arrive at my flat and settle in; one of my flatmates is already moved in. We discover that we both love cats, which is a great start! The two full days before orientation are spent unpacking, shopping, and exploring my new surroundings… More
As I sit at the gate at the airport, there are hundreds of thoughts running through my mind. I see many unknown faces surrounding me, but I know they are feeling the same way I do. The feeling of unknown, but also excitement for the many adventures we… More
Leaving It All Behind: On a chilly February morning I bid my parents goodbye and enter Denver International Airport. The sun has not even risen, and several long days of travel await. I opted to take holiday in Hawaii, some other Pacific Islands, and… More
When I opened my eyes this morning, I was struck by the familiarity of what I saw: my old ceiling, with its off-white, 1950s-style wooden beams; a large cabinet stuffed with DVDs and old photo albums; a painting of a kangaroo I made when I was 12, complete… More