Having just traveled to and from Florida for the Thanksgiving holiday, I found myself with a lot of time in-flight to reflect on what I was thankful for this year (after all, once the wifi's gone, there's a limit to what one can do on a plane). Of course, I'm thankful for all of the usual things -- my wonderful and supportive family, my amazing friends -- both back home and at Northeastern, my lovable cats, my health, etc. This year, however, I'm also incredibly thankful for all of the opportunities I've had by going to Northeastern and living in Boston.

Being back in my hometown was a nice change of pace, but it was also a good reminder of everything I've gained since going off to college. As much as I miss my family, and grits, and sweet tea, and all of the other pleasures of a more Southern lifestyle, going to college in Boston has changed my outlook on life for the better. I've had the opportunity to be a research assistant my first semester of college, I've signed up to spend a month traveling in Spain and walking the El Camino, I've become the world's leading expert in cooking ramen cuisine in a questionable microwave.

I'm also thankful for being in Boston, which has taught me the wonders (and horrors) of public transportation, and which, despite being a "big city", has never felt intimidating or isolating. From public rallies to unique volunteer opportunities, to prime dog-watching spots, this city has it all. And while there are still plenty of things I don't understand enough to be thankful for -- why there are more Dunkin' Donuts than people, why "wicked" is an acceptable slang word, and why 50 degrees is considered warm -- I'm thankful that I will have the ability to continue to figure them out.