Exactly one month from today I will be boarding a plane to take me 4500 miles away to start my exchange year in SPAIN.
It’s insane how quickly this year has gone- it seems like just yesterday I was at District Interviews, walking around the “country fair” and trying to decide which countries I should list on my preference sheet. Let me tell you, that adorable girl from Lithuania nearly had me convinced. I clearly remember the day when, three agonizing (I do not exaggerate- I was going nuts waiting) weeks later, the letter finally came: SPAIN. It’s right up there in Top Ten Moments of my Life. Eight months, three orientations, and a visa process later, I can’t believe I’m almost there. I sometimes get asked if it’s weird that all my friends will be starting college and I’m taking “a year off.” The short answer is a truthful “no.” I realize taking a gap year (and certainly being an exchange student) is not for everyone, but I’ve never doubted my decision.
And so…I’m busy enjoying the last few weeks of my summer, although admittedly about 95% of my thoughts are on Spain (a slight increase from the school year….I apologize to those who probably got very sick of me talking about it). My visa is ready, and all that’s left to do is wait….and pack, and intensify the Spanish practice, and finish college applications, and listen to my mother’s constant stream of “you’d better not leave your room a mess like this in Spain.” It’s going to be a busy month, and hopefully it will fly by.
It’s crazy to think that some students have already started their exchanges; I wish nothing but the best to all 60+ districts 5950/5960 Outbounds.
Here’s to an incredible year ahead.
-Paige
