It’s hard to believe that in a few hours I’ll be on my way to Brazil. In August, I finally got approved to reserve an appointment for a student visa — the last step before booking my flights. Even though I was reaching milestones in the process later than most exchange students, I figured that, at worst, I’d get through the interview in September and start my exchange year in early October. Unfortunately, my predicted worst-case scenario was a little optimistic, and the soonest available appointment was in mid-October. I say “unfortunately,” but there hasn’t truly been any misfortune in the extra time I’ve spent at home. In fact, the things I’ve learned over the past two months have made me feel more prepared for my exchange year.

The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that it’s always better to make the most of a situation than to wallow about it. Sure, starting my exchange this “late” isn’t ideal, but who else can say they departed on Halloween and landed on the first! This extra time has also allowed me to have memorable experiences simply by saying “yes,” like:
Learning how to rope because I agreed to attend a rodeo.
Learning how to bale hay and drive a semi because I agreed to help out on my dad’s farm.
Having the best tea at the coolest antique tea shop because I agreed to go on a walk.

Boosting my confidence in my video game because I agreed to host a meetup for my community.
These past few days have gone by so fast! Now that my bags are packed and at the door, things are starting to feel a little more real. I’ve frequently spoken with my host families, who’ve been super supportive throughout this process. It’s definitely reassuring to know that I’ll be staying with kind people. I’ve also looked at the area around my first home and found lots of craft stores, libraries, and parks nearby. I’m used to living on the outskirts of a rural town, so I’m looking forward to being somewhere that has more things to do within walking distance.

Recently, many of the highest daily temperatures in Florida have been in the 60s, so I’m glad I’m leaving before it gets colder. I’ll be skipping fall here and heading into spring in Brazil! Summer break will start soon after I arrive, and I’m excited about having more time to explore my host city. I’m also looking forward to attending school in Brazil. The school days are a bit shorter than in the U.S.; classes start at 7 a.m. and end at 12 p.m. I doubt I’ll understand much at first, but I plan to put a lot of effort into learning. I’m a bit nervous and don’t feel entirely ready, but I’m not completely unprepared either. During my exchange year, I will continue saying “yes” to new experiences and hopefully fill a journal with memories by the time I return!
Until the next time! 👋🤠