Tomorrow I fly to England. As with any major project or deadline in life, though I've been obsessively planning and considering it, now I feel caught a little off-guard. How did the time sneak up on me so quickly, even while each step moved at an interminable pace?
What has taken me a little by surprise is this: I feel right now the same way I did when starting at St. Olaf just before I turned 18. One of my oldest friends helped me clarify my fears on the phone this week. What if the classes are too hard? What if I can't keep up? What if I get lost on the way to class? What if I don't make any friends? As a teacher, I hear recent graduates express all of these often and my usual response is to smile sympathetically and assure them that their fears are baseless. Why haven't I offered myself the same assurances? I think it's because we're always so much more capable of seeing the possibilities and strengths in others we're blind to in ourselves. While I'm generally good at seeing my strengths (I'm cute, fun, smart, hilarious, modest...just ask if you want more), this move does play on all of my weaknesses. It's been a while since I've had to make a first impression with everyone at the same time.
All of that said, I'm super excited to wake up Sunday morning in one of my favorite cities in the world. I get to go to a full week of International Student Orientation activities for which I'm actually thrilled; my time in London will begin with the touristy side of the city--the part I already know. I'm sure it will be a nice way to acclimate to the new place and people. I'm certain that there will be much more blog fodder in the days to come.
Way to go Ann! You're going to have a great experience, can't wait to hear all about it!
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