The only thing that has stayed consistent here on the Gold Coast is the weather. I've never been so blessed to live in a place where the weather is always sunny and warm.
But besides for the weather I can't say that there is one day where I know exactly what is going to happen. Sometimes that is a great thing, but other times this is just a downfall. At home, there is more consistency. You know at this time, at this place, you will see the same person. Here, you experience something new everyday. It is refreshing, but also exhausting when all you'd like to do is go through your day without any questions.
Everyone may hate the next sentence they are going to read, but I can definitely say I am going to regret this one bit.
I am a little homesick.
It may be because I can't just pick up the phone and call my friends to hangout. It may be because I haven't seen my parents or brother in god knows how long. It may be because my dog is the only thing that can turn my frown upside-down. It may even be the pizza, bagels, Arizona ice teas, or Moe's that I miss so much. And last but not least, it may be because I miss fall, apple picking, cider donuts, and halloween. I can't seem to put my finger on what is the exact reason why, but it's definitely a combination of all those things.
I've come to realize that studying abroad is an individual experience. You are here for yourself and no one else. You have to make your own decisions and you can't blame someone for wanting to do something completely different. The only hard part about that is you want someone to experience these amazing things with you. And if you are by yourself, who's going to be able to relate. I guess that may actually be the reason I am homesick. I want my friends and family to be able to experience this amazing, carefree journey with me.
As a college student, I am constantly learning new things. Classes teach you new things about the world that you are about to actually enter. Your friends teach you how to relax, have fun, and who you can actually trust with your deepest darkest secrets. Your family that teaches you everything under the sun and will always show you that constant affection that you need.
Yet you will always be the one to teach yourself the most valuable lessons.
While abroad, I can't even tell you how my outlook on life has changed. I've learned that relaxation is necessary even when you are in the most stressful situations. You can't focus on the little things that won't matter an hour later. You need to realize the differences that you will have with people and you can't always expect a lot from others. The one thing you can do is count on yourself to make any situation a great one. I've learned that alone time is crucial to staying alive. Being around others constantly is such an exhausting activity. The only way you can reflect and actually ease your mind is to get away. Take a walk by yourself. Clear your mind.
I also want to emphasize one phrase that has started to mean a lot more to me than I would have ever thought.
No Worries
No worries. No worries mate. Such a simple phrase has changed my perspective on life. The amount of time people spend thinking about the "what ifs" of life is ridiculous. You can't waste your time worrying about things that don't have a great impact on your life. You miss the bus? No worries, you'll catch the next one. You have a bad day? No worries, tomorrow will bring great things. There's only so much you can do about your life and you shouldn't think too much into the things that you can't change.
Being abroad is one of the best experiences I will have under my belt.
You not only get to go to some of the most beautiful places in the world, but you also get to meet new people and learn new things about yourself as well as others.
I know this post wasn't about my activities, but at least I can say that I am glad that others are able to see how this experience makes a college student feel.
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