Last spring, I had full intentions to attend classes during the 2015-2016 school year. I was finally a senior, anxious to graduate the following spring.
Then I actually realized how close I was to graduating - to venturing into adulthood. I was scared stiff and got cold feet. So, in a bout of impulsivity, I dropped all my classes and decided to move across the country.
During the summer and fall, I participated in my second Disney College Program in Orlando, Florida. I worked 50-70 hour weeks to save up as much money as possible. Then I went crazy with it.
It started with a trip to Seattle, followed by a cruise to the Bahamas, then a venture over to Disneyland in California. Before I knew it, I was spending two months exploring Europe and Asia, and another two months living in Maui, Hawaii.
Last week, I was supposed to graduate. I was supposed to get a "big girl" job and earn a steady salary. Instead, I'm flat broke and living off of peanut butter sandwiches, hurriedly preparing for the first day of my senior year tomorrow.
But I have never been happier in my entire life.
Traveling makes you more independent.
For the most part, I traveled alone. My responsible side kicked into overdrive as I navigated foreign cities, budgeted for food, and tracked down modes of transportation. It gives you an incredible sense of empowerment knowing that you can do this without someone by your side to help every step of the way.
Traveling makes you realize the difference between want and need.
Although I saved up enough money to make it to Europe, I wasn't left with a whole lot for food. And on days where I wished I was eating a fresh crepe in downtown London, I settled for an apple and pint of milk at the local convenience store. This philosophy also prevented me from buying a ton of unnecessary trinkets. I've learned pictures make the best souvenirs.
Traveling makes you appreciate your home.
I used to think I could spend the rest of my life traveling the world alone. That is until I actually traveled the world alone. By the time I hit the midpoint during my two-month adventure, homesickness engulfed me. Never had I felt such an appreciation for the simple amenities I was used to. And for the first time in my life, I liked the idea of settling down.
Now that my adventure is over and I've got all the traveling out of my system, I'm excited to start "adulting". And although it stings to see my friends graduating without me, I will forever be grateful for the critical life lessons I've learned this past year.
