Hi friends studying abroad,
These past two years we've spent getting to know each other and I mean REALLY getting to know each other. From learning "icebreaker" stuff at orientation (name, where you're from, etc.) to many meals together on campus and off, taking (and commiserating over) classes, pregaming, recruitment, "the sophomore slump" (which is VERY real) and even hospital trips, we did it all together. We have seen each other at our best and worst, and we have grown up from high schoolers to mature young adults. You all know about my extreme FOMO for a night out, let alone a semester abroad.
I really wanted to go abroad because I love to travel, experience new things, eat absurd amounts of food, and learn new languages. (I'm a Spanish major and learned Portuguese here, for goodness sake!) However, circumstances didn't allow it. I may be a little bitter about it, but I would never take it out on any of you. I want you all to experience all that the world has to offer. Travel, take pictures, make wonderful memories, try new things - the world is literally your oyster. I don't want you to feel like you're leaving me behind in Atlanta and take pity on me, but we're growing in parallel situations. Someone needs to hold down the fort - it might as well be me.
That being said, while it may seem that I come off as jealous or disinterested when you bring up going abroad, I'm not. However, please be sensitive to my situation and the dozens of other people you're friends with who didn't go abroad. I really wanted to go abroad in the worst way, and my mother keeps mentioning spring semester (don't worry that is not happening, I don't want to be away from y'all a second longer). The world will still be there when I'm ready. Luckily, I have been to many of the places you are going so I don't feel very left out. Maybe you can bring me back a souvenir (Limoncello from Sorrento, tea from Claridge's, ANYTHING from Galeries du Lafayette, hint hint) or do something you know I'd do (space cakes in Amsterdam, London Eye, MONACO). That would mean so much to me.
Have the best time and be careful. I love you all and can't wait to hear (in moderation) about your time abroad. See you all in perfect condition in January.
Your Friend,
Nicole
