In two short days, I will be boarding my plane to France. I have spent numerous hours since October planning for this journey but hoped for the opportunity to study abroad for years. I cannot imagine the adventures I will encounter over the next few weeks that will not only benefit my own personal growth but my future students. I think it is extremely important to place yourself outside of your comfort zone in order to grow and I could not think of a better way than traveling outside the country studying agriculture and the culture of Toulouse, France. However, considering I am going outside of my comfort zone I am slightly nervous that I am forgetting something or something will not go smoothly. Did I get enough Euros? Surely my debit card will work? Do I have enough copies of my passport? I hope my cell-service comes through… I am sure everything will be fine, but it takes a lot of preparation getting ready. But what is a life without risk?

I’m tickled to begin this journey to gain a different perspective and appreciation for the French culture. This adventure would not be possible without CAES and a wonderful support system!

à bientôt! (Talk to you soon!)