Passion is energy.

Hi, 

I need to get better at posting these! Since returning from Vic Falls, we have been nonstop with classes, clinics, village visits, and finals. Even with all the craziness of studying abroad, it feels like time has stopped. Studying abroad is an immersive and transformative experience that transcends boundaries and opens up a world of new opportunities. As I embarked on my journey, I quickly realized that time seemed to take on a whole new dimension. It was as if the world around me paused, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the richness of the experience.

In the midst of exploring foreign lands and cultures, time seemed to stretch and expand. Each day felt like a treasure trove of moments, filled with awe-inspiring sights, vibrant conversations, and meaningful connections. The act of studying became more than just a task; it became a gateway to unraveling the mysteries of a different academic system, absorbing knowledge from esteemed professors, and engaging in intellectual discussions with students from around the globe.

As I delved deeper into my studies, time took on a surreal quality. In the classroom, it seemed to slow down, granting me the luxury to soak up every detail of the lectures and dive into thought-provoking discussions. The hours would pass effortlessly, as the subjects I once found daunting became fascinating puzzles waiting to be solved.

Outside the academic realm, time embraced a similar enchantment. Exploring the vibrant streets of unfamiliar cities, wandering through ancient landmarks, and indulging in local cuisines became timeless adventures. I would lose track of hours as I ventured through winding alleyways, capturing the essence of a different way of life, and forging unforgettable memories.

However, this sense of time suspension wasn't just about leisure and exploration. It was also about personal growth and self-reflection. Living in a foreign country, far away from the comfort of familiarity, allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and discover facets of myself I had never known. Time stood still as I confronted my fears, embraced new challenges, and learned to adapt to a different rhythm of life.

In this bubble of suspended time, studying abroad became more than just an academic pursuit. It became a transformative journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and lifelong friendships. As the days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, I realized that this precious moment would soon come to an end. But the memories, experiences, and lessons I gained would stay with me forever, reminding me of the profound impact of pausing time while studying abroad.

It also presents a unique opportunity to not only explore new horizons but also to bring my passions and interests to a new country, intertwining them with the rich tapestry of the local culture. As many of you know, I am on the Board of Directors for the national nonprofit, SafeBAE. SafeBAE works to end sexual violence and harassment among teens through the lens of prevention education. As the only peer-to-peer organization of our kind, we help promote culture change by giving teens the tools to help lead school culture change through dating violence, sexual harassment and assault, affirmative consent, safe bystander interventions, survivor care, and their rights under Title IX, while also offering schools the resources to educate, prevent, and better respond to disclosures from students. 

Throughout this semester's classes and clinic visits, it is apparent that sexual violence is highly prevalent in Botswana. Over the past few weeks I have been brainstorming on how I could help combat the issue here and it finally clicked. One of the topics for my “Health Care Issues in Botswana” class was gender-based violence. My professor subtly told us that the organization she supports as “Mrs. Botswana” was a local women’s shelter. Once I got over the shock of my professor not only being a world-renowned doctor but also Mrs. Botswana, the lightbulb went off. 

I talked to her about SafeBAE, and she was on board to bring programming here! The next day, I met with the administration for two secondary schools and talked to them about the programming we offer and they were on board! A few days later, I sat down with a large group of students. After sharing my story of being a survivor and my involvement with SafeBAE, it was clear that they were ready to shift the culture around sexual violence. Since that meeting, I have visited a few more times and helped them start the peer educator training, so they will be able to go to surrounding schools and give them the tools to promote a shift in their communities.

Sharing my passion for sexual violence prevention education not only allowed me to deepen my understanding but also provided a bridge for cultural exchange, fostering mutual respect and appreciation. In bringing my passions to a new country, I discovered the power of cultural exchange. I encountered different perspectives, approaches, and techniques, which challenged and enriched my own understanding. The act of sharing my passions became a reciprocal process, as I eagerly absorbed the essence of the local culture, incorporating it into my creative endeavors.

Studying abroad became an arena for growth and exploration, where my passions became catalysts for personal and intellectual development. As I immersed myself in a different environment, I discovered new dimensions of my interests, expanding my horizons and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. The experiences I had while pursuing my passions in a foreign land became invaluable, shaping not only my academic journey but also my personal and professional trajectory.

Ultimately, bringing my passions to a new country while studying abroad allowed me to leave an indelible mark on the cultural landscape and forge lasting connections. It taught me the universality of human expression, transcending language barriers and societal differences. And as I carried the memories and experiences of this transformative period back home, I knew that my passions had grown stronger and more vibrant, forever intertwined with the profound impact of my time abroad.

Before I end this blog, I went to mention the trip we went on last weekend! We stopped at Mogonye Village and were able to speak to the kids and provide them with new classroom supplies, sports equipment, and other basic essentials like toothbrushes, hand soap, and toilet paper. After the village visit, we went a few hours north to Khama Rhino Sanctuary. On the game drive, we saw 7 rhinos, 4 hippos, 2 giraffes (I never realized how BIG they are!), countless zebras, baboons, pumas, and wildebeests! After the game drive, we had a big bonfire under the stars. We played games, sang, talked, and made smores until the sun came up! It was a weekend I will never forget. 

Friday at 3 am we embark on a 22-hour ride to Swakopmund, Namibia. Swakopmund is a large city where the desert meets the ocean. We have 3 full days to explore and so far we have planned a whale-watching catamaran ride, go ATVing through the dunes, and camel rides! I am not excited about the bus drive but am excited to see the ocean and explore!

While it's natural to feel a tinge of sadness as studying abroad comes to an end, it's also incredibly exciting to look forward to the future that awaits. The experiences, knowledge, and friendships I’ve gained during my time abroad have undoubtedly transformed me into a more confident and culturally aware individual. As I return home, I bring with me a unique perspective and a wealth of international experiences that will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors. 

The end of studying abroad marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with endless possibilities. I now have a broader understanding of the world, and my global network of friends and contacts can open doors to exciting opportunities in various fields. The future holds new adventures, challenges, and chances for personal growth that I can embrace with enthusiasm. So, while it's normal to feel a sense of nostalgia for the amazing moments I’ve had abroad, I’m letting the excitement for the future take center stage as I embark on the next phase of my journey. The experiences I’ve had and the lessons I’ve learned will continue to shape my path and contribute to my success in whatever I choose to pursue. I’m embracing the memories, cherishing the friendships, and letting the excitement of what lies ahead guide me toward a bright and fulfilling future.

Xoxo, 

Abbie