As summer is coming to a close, I wanted to reflect on the time I spent in Paris and London for my study abroad trip. I went on a Texas State University faculty-led program for the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, and although we were only there for two weeks, it was the best two weeks of my summer vacation. We started our days visiting professional businesses such as Agence France-Presse, Weber Shandwick and the BBC, and then we ended our days by exploring the cities on our own.
Here's a little of how the study abroad trip went (HINT: It went amazing!):
1. When you are so excited to go abroad!
I used to live overseas, so it kind of felt like I was going back home.
2. But the jet lag hits you when you first get there
Nine-hour plane ride and only one hour of sleep on the plane.
3. When you have that "Texas-friendly" personality, but Europeans aren't really used to it.
No, you can't go up to anyone and say "hello."
4. When we went on our business visits and saw the different international companies at work.
I hope they are hiring after graduation!
5. Hanging out with your friends/classmates after all your business visits for that day are over.
Turn up time!
6. Calling your parents because you spent so much money, so quickly.
I'm sorry but how many times can you say you shopped in Paris and London?! I guess I really didn't need to add more to my shoe collection.
7. Seeing all the beautiful sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Abbey Road (for my Beatles fans out there), Kensington Palace and Big Ben.
There were so many beautiful sights everywhere we looked.
8. Stuffing yourself with all the amazing food Paris and London had to offer.
I mean have you guys ever tasted an authentic French croissant?! They are so good! Also the French coffee and the British tea were legendary.
9. When you finally have to go to the airport to travel back home.
We did so much in those two weeks that time just flew by.
If you ever have the opportunity to study abroad, I would highly suggest it. You make great memories and make new friends to the point where you don't even really want to leave. Thank you SJMC for giving me such a great opportunity to study abroad and thank you to everyone who made the trip that much more enjoyable!