I've always been a traveler. One of the perks of being related to someone who works for an airline, flying is practically in my blood. My parents made sure that my siblings and I grew up with memories of the trips we took, be it to visit family, a national monument, or a fun theme park. As I got older, the trips expanded, but also became more personal. I got to take one on one trips with my mom or dad, and I would eventually begin traveling with my friends.

It's a passion. I've never really been big on shopping or being extravagant in anyway, but I have a weakness for adventures. It started January of my senior year. I had the opportunity to go on a school trip to Europe. Looking at the price of the trip nearly gave me a heart attack, but I took the risk, and I wouldn't trade that experience for the world. Since then, I've gone out of the country three more times, and I'm not wanting to slow down in the foreseeable future.

I don't mean for this to be a post that guilts or alienates people who can't afford to travel or are restricted by work, school, or any number of reasons. I am very aware of how fortunate I am to have the opportunities that I do. This is just meant to be my talking about how, if possible, everyone should take a trip somewhere in which they push their comfort levels. Try new foods, see new things, learn parts of a new language. There is SO MUCH to know that you would never get the chance to experience if you live the same old same old everyday.

It doesn't have to a massive, transatlantic trip. Look online to see what national parks or monuments or even just fun things to do are a realistic drive away. You don't have to be crazy, but it's 10/10 worth it to push the envelope and try things you never have before. It'll make a world of difference.