This past Christmas was no typical Christmas. Rather than waking up and opening presents with my beloved family, we slung our suitcases into the car and took a nine hour drive down to Miami where we hopped on our flight to Budapest. Since arriving in Europe on the 26th, I have traveled to Budapest, Vienna, Innsbruck, Munich, Palermo and Tunis.
It has been a wild ride traveling with my family- family trips are never without hiccups considering everyone in a 6 person group, no matter how easy going and accommodating, has slightly different priorities. However, I cherish those hiccups more than anything because they have led to endless laughter, the kind of laughter that makes you feel like you're in the gym working towards a six pack. Needless to say, the experiences we had were breathtaking, thought-provoking, one-of-a-kind and exploratory, both extrinsically and intrinsically.
Intrinsically, I have been able to self-assess. I am more than eager to begin my journey studying abroad, but it is a big transition to travel alone rather than travel with my favorite people. Traveling has been a part of me since I was brought into this world, but this moment, the moment of stepping away and exploring on my own, is a big step. But definitely a step I am ready to take. The best part of it all is that I know I will be able to find another family within my program that will make me laugh and love every moment the same way. When I embarked on this journey, I was one of six. Now, I have only myself to continue exploring the continent of Europe and myself.
Julia Chodyla
<p>My name is Julia Chodyla, and I am a junior at The George Washington University majoring in International Affairs and Dance and minoring in Economics. I am happiest and feel most like "Julia" when I am dancing, traveling, exploring the outdoors, laughing and trying new things.</p>
