When I first heard this quote by J.R.R. Tolkein, I wasn't really sure what it meant. I have always had an avid enthusiasm for traveling, but up until now the majority of my trips were organized with family, friends or non-profit organizations. While by no means is this bad, it just provides you with a different perspective. So when I applied for this program back in December, I became excited to start a new chapter in my life-one where I was in charge of what I did, where I went and who I went with. Something completely within my hands. And let me tell you, it sure has been worth it. Since arriving in Paris, I have had some pretty amazing experiences with my classmates, but today after class I decided to venture off myself and do some personal exploring before we leave for Rome. In doing so, I did something that I never thought I would get to do: climb the Arc de Triomphe. All I can say is wow...and thanks to IES for the student ID card that got me in for free. In climbing up the 200-something stairs, I was able to catch the most breathtaking view of Paris, slightly windy and very high up, but I have never been so amazed.
While I tend to be an independent person by nature, I found it incredibly rewarding to not only explore but also understand my way around the city that I have been lucky to live in these last 2 weeks. A normal day at school does not provide me with opportunities such as exploring a different culture, or even enough free time in general, therefore I had to take this opportunity and allow myself to continue enjoying my experience in Paris. Today I wandered its streets and breathed its culture, and I can happily say that not once did I feel lost. If that's not a reward from studying abroad, then I don't know what is.
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I Came, I Saw, I Fell in Love
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Hannah Abel
Hannah is a rising senior at University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, majoring in Human and Social Development with minors in Psychology and Education. When she is not in class, Hannah serves as Vice President of Coordinators on the Panhellenic Executive Board and a member of the Student Government Senate as well as being a member of the Homecoming Executive Committee and Kappa Kappa Gamma. While she has been on a safari in Africa and tried fresh sushi in Japan, this will be her first time studying and traveling in Western Europe, a dream of hers since high school. She is excited to document her adventures and hopes to share this blog on the study abroad adventure of a lifetime.
