I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in London last semester. Every day was full of adventure — from exploring everything London has to offer, to traveling around Europe and taking in all of the famous sights. My weekends were jam-packed with day trips around England and extended stays in France, Austria and Italy. During the week, I wandered around London’s many parks, cozied up with a book in my favorite cafe and shopped on Oxford Street.
Now, I find my weekends full of homework, meetings and rehearsals. During the week, I’m lucky if I can find time to hang out with my housemates or catch up on my favorite TV shows.
Why did I ever leave my glamorous European life behind?
My first few weeks on campus were not easy. I was yearning for my “London Life,” a life full of unexpected adventures and incredible opportunities. Everything around me felt dull and boring. It was truly challenging to find excitement in my monotonous routine of classes. I found myself slipping into a “Post-Abroad Depression,” and I didn’t know what to do.
Then, on any ol’ Tuesday, I rushed past the graduation countdown clock in Dyson and saw that there are less than 100 days left in the school year. While I’m not graduating this year, I was smacked with the realization that my days at Marist are sadly numbered. With graduation becoming more of a concrete concept, and post- grad plans taking up many of my thoughts, I realized that I needed to break out of my funk and take advantage of every second of my time left here.
Of course, I’ll always miss London, and if someone presented me with a plane ticket right now, I would be on that plane faster than you can say “Prince William.” But there are so many adventures to be found on campus and in the Hudson River Valley … there’s no reason to be bored here!
From here on out, I’m making myself a promise to enjoy each day at Marist. I’m also challenging myself to find something exciting to celebrate about every day … it will make each day seem more special in the long run. With only one year left at the best college in the country, it’s time to start taking advantage of everything Marist and this region has to offer!
Besides, there’s always London for grad school!
Photo credit: Marissa Russo