In less than two weeks I will be diving head first into the unknown.

This unknown is Copenhagen, Denmark.

I will be packing my bags and leaving the comfort of my own campus for a semester to explore DIS Copenhagen and all that Europe has to offer. Ever since I applied and got into the program, I have felt nonstop waves of excitement, nervousness, confusion, and thankfulness that I am able to embark on this journey. This being said, there are still so many things I have to do to mentally and physically prepare myself for living in a distant country for four months.

The Physical Preparation:

Packing ranks supreme on the list of physical preparations. The daunting task of trying to fit my entire closet into two suitcases is terrifying and not in the slightest bit feasible. My approach to this is sticking with basics and clothes that I can layer. When I get to Copenhagen, it will be Summer and when I leave it will be Winter, so I have to account for three seasons of weather. Neutral colors will become my best friends as they are the ONLY way I will be able to fit enough clothes for four months without wearing the same outfit every day. Even with this idea, I am still extremely nervous because I have a very long track record of over packing, packing clothes I never end up wearing, and forgetting items.

The Mental Preparation:

The overarching thing to keep in mind before I leave is the practice of open-mindedness. There is a certain kind of vulnerability attached to traveling which can only be magnified when living abroad. It only comes with the territory: you are in a new place, meeting new people, and opening your mind to new things. This being said, I hope to go into every experience with open eyes, an open mind, and an open heart. I hope to embrace change, new perspectives, and a new culture with open arms. I will not be at Villanova in the place and with the people I feel most comfortable. Therefore, all that I can do until I get there is to be present and full heartedly welcome the unknown.