Auf Wiedersehen, Österreich

As my time in Linz, Austria has come to an end, I look back with nothing but a grateful heart. I truly could not have asked for a better semester abroad. The friends I made, as well as the experiences and opportunities I had were unmatched.

My friends opened my eyes to new perspectives and helped me realize how we all live such different lives but can come together with a similar goal and drive. Some unforgettable memories were made with my group of girls who come from all over the world. I was also fortunate enough to spend time with some locals. They helped prove many of the “cultural sensitive” dynamics that we were taught about in class – don’t even think about walking inside with your shoes on. ;)

Practicing my German (outside of the classroom) and getting some local perspectives was a blast.

The last month was filled with many trips together with some amazing people. I went to the Netherlands and met up with many of my family members and had some quality time before the holidays. A few days after my arrival, I finally got to see my parents and siblings again. The day after Christmas, my mom’s whole side of the family took a road trip and came to Linz. Showing the people I love the city that I have grown to love was one of my most precious memories. Once the extended family had to go back, my parents, siblings and I continued the road trip to Switzerland for a couple days of sightseeing. After the departure of my parents and little brother, my sister and I headed to Greece. We spent an adventurous week exploring Athens and taking a road trip through the beautiful country. Once I came back to Linz and completed my last final, a friend and I went to visit another friend who lives in a massive ski area in France. Everything about this trip was incredible and I could not have asked for a better last time with the girls I had grown so close to during the semester.

This experience showed me that the finest pleasures are often the unexpected ones. A previous dean from my home university contacted me earlier in the semester and told me about a local Linzer who had spent time at Fort Hays State University. Through this I was able to meet someone who understood and related to my background. Throughout the semester I was also invited to play coed volleyball with some university students and professors. I have missed this sport so much and it was nice to play for fun with some guys and girls that are quite talented. My exchange ended in a remarkable way by attending the JKU Ball. New Horizons was attended by over 3,300 guests – including students, professors, business professionals, mayors and governors. My date is the deputy chairman of the university senate and therefore we were also able to attend a special welcome ceremony along with some of the most influential people in the area. Just an overall magical night.

Goodbyes are always hard. Flying away – halfway across the world and leaving the people and place that made such an impact on me was tough. The unknown of if/when I will see anyone or anything again is such a strange feeling. But nonetheless, I would not have changed a single thing about this experience and if I could, I would do it all over again in the exact same way.