What an amazing semester!
I can’t put into words how special the University of Virginia is. The sprawling grounds are stunning, the fall foliage is breathtaking, and the students are all so welcoming. Having the privilege of getting to study at this school was something I’ll cherish for a long time.
My last month and a half was packed with exciting activities. We went out for ‘Haloweekend’ and had to construct three costumes- one for each night. Basketball season started, and I cheered until my voice box gave out. I ran a 5k with all of the fourth years to raise money for charity on the day of our final football game, and it was remarkable to see the thousands of students who showed out for the cause. I helped plan an Olympics with a lot of my friends (unfortunately I lost and had to eat baby food). At our gymnastics Christmas party I got to try eggnog which was certainly interesting!
Over Thanksgiving Break, Brodie and I traveled to my childhood home in Delaware. He got to meet my cousins and had his first Thanksgiving which was really exciting!
After Thanksgiving, we buckled down and studied for finals. I spent my days in the library relearning about Afghanistan and different policies, and my nights with friends milking our last few moments together.
If I could go back in time and relive my last four months, I would jump at the opportunity. I’m planning a European backpacking trip after I graduate to visit all of the international friends I made, which will be magnificent.
What you get during exchange is what you put into it. I made the most of every moment at UVA, and I couldn’t be any happier with how it turned out. If you or any friends are considering studying abroad, It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity you’ll remember forever. Four months felt like the blink of an eye, and the friends I made will last a lifetime.
