January 26, 2016 marked a year since I left for the Netherlands to study abroad. I remember feeling a mixture of both excitement and nervousness before I left. Moving to a new country completely on my own and not knowing what to expect was scary and at the same time really amazing.
The first few days were hazy, due to jet lag, but I quickly met new people and got costumed to Dutch traditions. I lived in Den Haag (The Hague) which was about 45min away from Amsterdam by train, and I just want to thank the Netherlands for giving me an experience of a lifetime. Sure, everyone says that about their time abroad but I really feel as though I met long time friends and had the best time.
Living abroad taught me how to adapt, and truly be independent. Nothing really screams "independence" like finding a doctor in another country who accepts international students by yourself. That was probably the hardest thing I did abroad. It's interesting to look back and realize that I did not have a group of Dutch friends or even the opportunity to really learn Dutch, but what I got in return was even better.
The Netherlands gave me the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. We all came from different backgrounds yet we were able to create a bond that is just as strong almost two years later. To me that is the best part. I know for a fact that If i'm ever feeling down or need advice my friends are only a WhatsApp/facebook message away.
I've been wanting to write about my experience for so long and I found that I was honestly something kind of difficult to put into an article so I asked some of my close friends what some of the best memories in the Netherlands were for them, and what made it such a great experience. The responses I got reminded me of what made the Netherlands so special.
From going to the beach and dancing at festivals to the everyday Dutch life- my friends reminded me of everything the Netherlands gave me that no other country has. I feel so lucky to have been able to celebrate Midsummer and Kings Day with amazing people. These are all things I wouldn't have known about if it wasn't for the Netherlands.
I want to thank all the amazing people I met who truly helped me have an experience of a lifetime! Thank you for getting lost with me and for going on trips to other countries with me. Thank you Den Haag for the great food, people, and beer! I hope to someday meet up with all my friends again in the Netherlands and dance and just celebrate life together!
