Even as I’m sitting here writing this blog article, I can see the large boxes across from me I ordered from the storage company. We’re heading into the last week of exams, and for those who live in residence, some people have already started moving out of halls and into their new flats for next year, or heading home for vacation.
Wrapping up the end of first year feels somewhat like a surreal experience – on one hand, the past nine months have passed in a blink of an eye; on the other, it seems like just yesterday that it was the start of revision week and I was lining up to sign up for clubs at Fresher’s Fair, or meeting my Academic Family for the first time.
Living far away from home on my own for the first time was an overwhelming experience when I first arrived in St. Andrews, an common experience for many international students (and even UK students), I’m sure. But the caring and open student community made my transition into university so much easier, and it has been a truly memorable year for me, from making new friends to participating in events unique to St. Andrews, such as the Raisin Weekend foam fight and May Dip.
This first year at university has also given me a chance to branch out and explore new interests and activities, such as writing for our very own HerCampus and helping out with different volunteer groups. Next year, hopefully I’ll get a chance to step out of further outside of my comfort zone – after all, that’s where the magic happens, right?
I’m definitely looking forward to heading home soon for the first time since Christmas Break, but the thought is bittersweet – I’ll be leaving behind some wonderful memories. I’ll miss walking down Market Street near sunset, heading down to the beach on one of those rare sunny days, hanging out at Rector’s with friends – see you in a few months, St. Andrews!