Although there was always so much to explore in Tokyo, there is so much more in Japan to see. That is why one of the most memorable experiences studying abroad in Japan was the IES Abroad-sponsored trip to Okinawa Prefecture. A distant island between the Japanese mainland and Taiwan, Okinawa has a rich history, distinct culture, and beautiful scenery. In Tokyo people are always busy, and there is always a train to catch. But there are no trains to catch in Okinawa: everyone drives or takes the bus instead.

It’s pretty mind-blowing how quickly time whizzes by when you're abroad.  Every once and a while I have to consciously remind myself to stop and reflect on the irreplaceable experiences I am gathering.  Of course being away for a few months with no comfort of any familiar faces, homesickness may pop up out of nowhere.  But whenever a hint of homesickness kicks in, I just remind myself how absolutely incredible it is that I am here, and how lucky I am to be able to take advantage of this opportunity.  Not to mention it is already

Greetings from my last week in Santiago! I can’t believe that we are getting towards the end of my experience here. It feels like just yesterday I was living in three worlds: a world in Bloomington, IN where I go to school, Chicago where my family is, and then a suitcase filled with all the things I wanted to bring to Santiago. I was honestly a mess. I didn’t know what to expect once I arrived and I was extremely anxious about the whole trip.

The End

I have been back in Texas for just over a week now. Being back here reminds me how much I missed this great nation and how much I missed America. It has also showed me how awesome Australia was. As great as Texas is, I do not have the Opera House here, neither am I close to a beach nor kangaroos and koalas.

Like any other language, Arabic is not complete without the little phrases that make it unique. There are a ton of these phrases (inshaallah, yalla, etc), but one of my favorites is “Alhamdu lillah!” Alhamdu lillah is the Arabic version of “Thank God!” and using it has caused me to reflect on gratitude in my daily life.

I am currently writing this in a little coffee shop back in Indiana, and just three short days ago, I had to say goodbye to Vienna.  I was obviously excited to get home and see my family, but I also already miss the city I called home for the past six weeks.