We all love to travel. The thrill of exploring a new place excites everyone, whether it's walking in an old and cobbled-stone city or hiking through the elements while conquering mountains. I have always had this never-satisfied need to travel — but to travel, you need to pack. And that's the worst.
Studying abroad for any amount of time is such a blessing, however, the preparation can take away some of the joy of having the opportunity to learn about different cultures while educating yourself on various subjects. In honor of the dreaded need to pack, here are 18 thoughts the characters of "The Office" would have while packing for a study abroad trip.
1. Oh my gosh! I haven't started packing and I leave TOMORROW!
Procrastination is embedded into a college student's routine. So when it comes time to pack a suitcase, filled with things you'll need from anywhere between a few weeks to an entire semester, we don't rush to be productive.
2. Let's face it, I'm not going to finish on time.
Time is getting away from you quickly. Stuff those bags fast with textbooks and t-shirts alike.
3. What do I even wear to _____?
Do your research. It isn't OK to wear short shorts and tank tops into a European church, and it's probably not the best idea to pack four jackets when you are bound for South America.
4. Do I even have a BIG enough suitcase? Without it, this trip will be a disaster.
If you're anything like me, you tend to overpack, thinking of the different combinations of shirts, pants, accessories and shoes. But your suitcase may not allocate for your fashionista mindset.
5. Well, I better pack this thing. You never know if I'll need it.
Again, try not to overpack.
6. OK, it's kind of ridiculous to pack six pairs of shoes...
Or is it???
Your Pinterest board of perfect street-style outfits may require too many scarves and sunglasses. Heels, flats, boots, sneakers, all the makings of a stylish study abroad wardrobe. Too much stuff, not enough space.
7. I need a break.
The stress is getting to you. Packing requires energy and motivation, things that you are quickly running out of.
8. Well, it's been two hours and I have NOTHING ready to go.
Literally, nothing is packed. You just spent the last two hours actually watching "The Office" while leaving your responsibilities behind. Let's get back to work.
9. HOLD ON. I got to leave room for souvenirs.
Never forget the swag. A tiny statue of the Eiffel Tower, a folding fan from Japan, or coffee grounds from Brazil. Leave space for souvenirs that you will treasure forever.
10. This is officially the worst part of the trip, and I haven't even left yet.
Packing is the worst, enough said. The weather could suck the entire time you are gone and this is still the worst part of your entire study abroad experience.
11. I have to pack really cute outfits for this trip. Classy, not trashy.
Hate to say it, but we Americans can walk the line of being too obnoxious and loud when we travel. Whether it be with our words or our style, we are very upfront with our American-isms. Learn more about the fashion and culture of the place you travel before you stuff your suitcase with Nike shorts and baggy t-shirts.
12. What about an outfit to go out in??
Study abroad isn't all about studying. Right??
13. *TRY TO PUSH THE LAST TOP INTO THIS FREAKING SUITCASE!!*
One more top and THEN this bag is ready to go.
14. Will this suitcase ACTUALLY zip up?
Let's hope and pray.
15. HOORAY! IT ZIPPED!
Somehow this suitcase was big enough to fit enough clothes for more than a month of travel. BLESS UP!
16. But I spent so much money preparing for this trip that I'll be broke during it.
I guess souvenirs won't be making it on the return flight home.
17. And I'll have to repack all of this when we start heading home.
Don't think about redoing this all over again a month or so.
18. AT LEAST IT'S DONE. I DID IT! LET'S GO EXPLORE THE WORLD! STUDY ABROAD HERE I COME!
Travel to your heart's content while learning something in your field? I'll take it. Even if it means packing a suitcase, the most dreaded thing ever.
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Whether you are jetting off to the far ends of the Earth or traveling across the country, may packing a suitcase be the worst of your preparation. Stay safe this summer, and learn about the amazing places around you.
