Monday, January 30, 2012

Home Away from Home

                Leaving loved-ones is always difficult.  Traveling is my passions but I can do without saying “Good-byes.”  I felt like I could create a river with my tears.  I have been to Dominican Republic, Peru, London, and Tanzania and I am still an emotional wreak every time.
                On the bright side, INDIA is phenomenal and it feels likes a “home away from home.”  While I was on the plane the Indian couple thought I was Indian and began to speak to me in Hindi.  They were very kind and friendly.  She asked me questions, I helped her fill out her immigration form, she gave me a hug and wished me a good journey. 
Also, some customs and sites are very similar; for instance, everyone is so friendly and welcoming.  The market is very similar to markets back home in the Dominican Republic because there are a lot of people and displaying their goods in stalls.  There is also a lot of variety – so many yummy fruits and vegetables like passion fruit, jack fruit, black grapes, guava, watermelon, apples, oranges – and all of the food is fresh.


                Moreover, INDIA is so new and full of adventure everyday but very familiar at the same time.  Therefore, despite how difficult it is to leave my friends, family and boyfriend, India is the perfect destination since it feels like home.

Hasta Luego – Ready to Go!!!

I leave for India tomorrow.  Alas, all my hard work has paid off.
  1. Alliance Online Application
  2. Statement of purpose that worked on and perfected for a year
  3. 2 teacher recommendations
  4. 1 recommendation from my study abroad advisor
  5. Internship Intent form with an essay component
  6. Interview
  7. Writing a completely different resume
  8. Applying for scholarships
  9. Budget, Budget, BUDGET!!!
Once I was accepted – more paperwork!!!
  1. Intent to enroll form
  2. India student Visa Application
  3. Medical form
  4. Housing form
  5. Course selection form
  6. Booking my flight and filling out the flight confirmation form
  7. PACKING, which was only possible with Matt’s help
I am proud of myself for taking this leap especially during my senior year.  I am going to miss graduation but India is, in my opinion, a more memorable experience since I am still going to get the degree.  Also, trying to finish my thesis abroad is going to be a challenge but  I am a firm believer in the idea that “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
Wish me luck everyone!!!  By the way, if anyone is into SNAIL MAIL, feel free to write me at
Alliance for Global Education,
Bungalow # 3, Fergusson College F.C. Road,
Pune, 411004