Brother Gianna in Switzerland!

​Dear Brothers,
 
Hello from Switzerland! It’s crazy to say I only have a month left here, but my time abroad so far has been absolutely incredible. When trying to recap briefly my semester, I find it difficult to focus more on the places than on the people who have brightened my life since I arrived in Europe. Through my exchange program, I have made friends from all over Europe, South America and even Southeast Asia. My best friend is from California, and I have a trip already planned to visit the Canadians next semester. In class, I’ve been working with German and Swiss students who consistently leave me in awe at their knowledge and worldly experiences. Finding similarities and differences between such a diverse pool of perspectives and that of mine has not only been a fascinating learning opportunity, but it has also provided me with unique friendships that will last a lifetime.
 
With that being said, my best advice is to, first of all, study abroad (duh) and secondly to push yourself far out of your comfort zone. If you’re a big city person, go somewhere small. Live on a different continent if you know the European culture. When you travel, do it alone or meet a friend in a new city. Stay in hostels and listen to the stories of backpackers that decided to spend a few years just meeting people and traveling. Also, another lesson that I will carry with me forever is that it is okay to have bad days and for things to not go perfectly. Isn’t that the point of all of this – to learn something? On some of the toughest days, I’ve learned so much about my strengths and weaknesses. Instead of becoming consumed with the imperfections of life, embrace them. Lastly, and most importantly, take time for yourself during your study abroad experience. Read a new book, hike through the mountains, go skydiving! Of all times to focus on yourself, take the opportunity to do it in a beautiful place when there most likely isn’t a worry in the world for you. 
 
Overall, I’ve been to Munich, Strasbourg, Amsterdam, Interlaken, Budapest, Berlin,  Zurich, Marrakech and Prague. Each city was absolutely amazing especially because most of the trips included meeting and exploring with some of my best friends from school or home. It’s weird that I’ll be coming back to reality soon, but I cannot wait to return for senior year and tell all of my crazy stories. I miss all of you and am looking forward to meeting all the new brothers! Congrats to those graduating – I can’t wait to see all of the incredible things you guys accomplish. See everyone else in the fall !!!
 
 – Gianna