Dear Family,
Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity, but it has its setbacks. For me, the worst part is being separated from my family for so long. I am used to seeing my family regularly, so an entire semester halfway around the world will be challenging. Not only will I miss my family but I will miss the friends who have become family. I have spent so much time with you all, so don’t forget me while I’m abroad.
Just because I chose to study abroad doesn’t mean I don’t love you. I’m not trying to run away; I promise I’m coming back. I will think of you every day while I’m gone, even if I don’t have time to Skype. I may not call every day, but that doesn’t mean I have forgotten you. Look on the bright side--the less I tell you now, the less annoyed you will get when I constantly talk about my study abroad experiences when I get back home. I want to say thank you to my parents who have allowed me to follow my dreams halfway across the world. You have raised me with a wonderful sense of adventure and pushed me to be brave in the face of a challenge. I want to say thank you for listening to me talk about my semester abroad nonstop and for sending me money when I desperately needed it. You have given me the world and for that, I will be forever grateful.
To my friends, we have had some good times together so far and I am going to miss you all very much. Even if I make new friends abroad, they can never replace you. I can't wait to tell you guys all the fun adventures I had, and listen to all the things you guys did without me. Your friendship means the world to me, and even if I am in another part of the world, you will be with me in my heart.
To my siblings as I embark on this adventure, I want to tell you thank you for keeping our parents company in my absence, but don’t be fooled- I am still the favorite. I know you are jealous of my time abroad, but know I love you, and always will. I also want to apologize in advance for forgetting a real souvenir for you and buying it at the airport on the layover home.
This also serves as a PSA to Europe, so beware, because I am coming for you! Expect many typical tourist pictures of me to hit Facebook soon. I’m still awaiting my invitation to tea with the Queen, but I’m sure it is just lost in the mail. I am so excited to study abroad and I love my family for supporting me; it means the world to me. I promise to Skype you updates as often as possible.
With all my love,
Your Wanderlust Traveler.
