Over the last 19 weeks I have visited 18 countries and territories, 30+ cities, and made countless life long memories. This semester away was very important to me in that I wanted to better myself emotionally, mentally, and physically. Physically I was able to start consistently working out and dieting more, something I’ve always wanted to do but always seemed to have obstacles in my way. Even with the constant traveling, since the the new year, I have lost over 25 lbs and so damn close to benching 225 lbs, a goal I never even knew was possible. Mentally and emotionally I was able to take a step back are really focus on on my mental health. Being 4,000 miles away from friends and family gave me the opportunity to be alone, something I’ve really never experienced in my life. It gave me time to reflect on the first half of my college journey and what I wanted to see from myself. I talked with numerous people on how I could create a better balance at managing school and friendships and how to transition everything I learned in Ireland back to KC and Ames. If there’s one piece of advice I can give you, please look into study abroad programs. It’s truly a once in a lifetime that many people don’t even get the option for. Not only is it spectacular for traveling to countries around the world, it gives you that opportunity to reflect on yourself like I did. Life is short, you have to make the most of it. There’s no time waiting around hoping for change. You have to be the one to do something about it. Do whatever you want that will help you succeed, because remember, there is no tomorrow...