The Cyclical Nature of Life.

As the sun sets on my study abroad adventure, I can't help but marvel at the parallel it shares with the cyclical nature of life—the eternal rhythm of sunrises and sunsets. Each sunset signifies an ending, a closure to a beautiful chapter filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences. Yet, as the sun dips below the horizon, it leaves behind a promise that it will rise again, ushering in a brand new day, a fresh start, and the chance to create new memories.

In the same way, my study abroad journey has reached its sunset—a moment to reflect on the amazing transformation it has brought into my life. The emotions of excitement, gratitude, and nostalgia are like the colors painted across the sky during sunset, vibrant and bittersweet all at once. I am excited about the opportunities that await me in the new chapter of life and eager to apply the knowledge and insights gained during my time abroad. The gratitude I feel is like the warm embrace of the sun's rays, gratitude for the people I've met, the experiences I've had, and the personal growth that has unfolded like the petals of a flower under the sunlight.

Nostalgia washes over me, much like the fading light of the setting sun, as I recall the moments that have become treasured memories. Yet, just as the sun rises without fail, I am reminded that this ending is also a beginning—a prelude to the next phase of my journey. The sun always rises, and with each sunrise, I have the chance to start anew, chase my dreams, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.

Just as the sun gives the world its light every morning, illuminating the sky and casting away the darkness, I am ready to embark on a new dawn in my life. The sun's rising is a symbol of hope, a reassurance that there is always a chance to begin again, to learn, to grow, and to make a positive impact on the world. It reminds me that life is a series of cycles, and each end leads to a new beginning, like a continuous dance of light and shadows.

With the sun always rising, I am encouraged to embrace change, step into the unknown with courage, and face challenges as opportunities for growth. Like the promise of a sunrise, I am filled with a sense of hope and enthusiasm for the adventures that await me in this new chapter of life. And as I watch the sunset one last time on my study abroad adventure, I am grateful for the journey, excited for the future, and open to whatever the next sunrise may bring.

Looking back at the past months, I am filled with profound gratitude for the experiences I've had and the people I've met. The friendships forged, the cultural exchanges, and the challenges overcome have shaped me into a more resilient, open-minded, and compassionate individual. My study abroad experience has been a transformative one, and I am thankful beyond words for every moment.

While I bid farewell to the place that became my second home, I also eagerly welcome the new adventures that await me. My study abroad experience has opened my eyes to the vastness of the world and the diversity of its people. I am eager to continue exploring, learning, and contributing my skills to creating positive change wherever I go.

What truly made this journey unforgettable were the incredible people I had the privilege to meet and befriend. From my fellow students to the caring professors and the locals who welcomed us with open arms, they all became my second family. We laughed together, cried together, and shared our passions, dreams, and fears without hesitation. I will miss the laughter that echoed through our apartment building, the late-night conversations, and the sense of freedom that came with exploring the unknown. In the short span of time we had together, our connections grew deep and meaningful and I know they will be in my life forever. We already planned a reunion in October, as we cannot fathom not being together every moment of every day. The memories we created and the ones to come will forever be etched in my heart, like an intricate mosaic of gratitude, love, and friendship.

Through this journey, my passion for public health has been cemented. Witnessing firsthand the impact of public health initiatives on diverse communities around the world has lit a fire within me—a fire that will continue to burn brightly as I step into the future. The knowledge and insights gained during my time abroad have only deepened my commitment to making a difference in the world, one community at a time. As I return home, I carry with me a heart brimming with hope and optimism. The memories I've made and the lessons I've learned will serve as the guiding stars in my pursuit of a career dedicated to improving global well-being. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, knowing that the experiences I've had abroad have prepared me to face any challenge with courage and determination.

Participating in fieldwork and research projects during my time abroad was an invaluable aspect of my journey. Collaborating with local organizations allowed me to work directly with communities, experiencing their daily struggles and aspirations. I witnessed the transformative power of public health initiatives and the tangible impact they had on people's lives. These experiences were a revelation, as I realized that public health was not just a theoretical concept, but a tangible force capable of making a real difference.

Moreover, being immersed in a foreign culture taught me to appreciate the importance of cultural competence in public health work. Understanding and respecting cultural differences is crucial for crafting effective and sustainable public health interventions. The friendships I forged and the moments of cultural exchange helped me develop the sensitivity needed to engage meaningfully with diverse communities, an essential skill in the field of public health.

Studying abroad also nurtured personal growth and resilience within me. Adapting to a new environment, navigating through language barriers, and facing unfamiliar challenges equipped me with the tenacity required to tackle complex public health issues. These experiences fortified my resolve to contribute my skills and knowledge to improving health outcomes on a global scale. As I returned home, my heart was full of gratitude for the life-changing experiences I had encountered during my study abroad journey. It was clear to me that my passion for public health had been ignited and solidified, and I knew that this path is the one I want to pursue wholeheartedly.

Before I end, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support you all at home have shown me throughout my journey of studying abroad. Your belief in me and your encouragement has been the driving force behind my pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. I am beyond fortunate to have family, friends, and a community like mine who have allowed me to spread my wings and explore the world, embracing my passions and following my dreams.

Your love transcends borders, and your encouragement knows no distance. Your trust in my abilities and your constant presence in my heart have given me the confidence to embrace new challenges and seize every opportunity that comes my way. This journey has been transformative, and I owe it all to your unwavering support and belief in me. Your presence, even from afar, has been a guiding light, reminding me that I am never alone in this pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery.

Whenever I face obstacles or uncertainties, you lend a helping hand and provide the strength I need to overcome any adversity. Your belief in my abilities and constant motivation pushes me to strive for greatness and never give up on my dreams. Your presence brings warmth and comfort to my life, knowing that I am never alone in this journey. Whether it's a listening ear, reading my blog and commenting on these blogs, a comforting hug, or a simple word of encouragement, you all have always been there to lift my spirits and remind me of my worth.

As I continue to embrace my passions and follow my dreams, I promise to make the most of this incredible opportunity. Your love and support have instilled in me the determination to excel and make you all proud. Once again, thank you for being the pillars of strength and encouragement in my life. I am eternally grateful for your love and the endless opportunities you've provided me to grow and learn.

In regard to emotional strength, this summer has allowed me to grow and prosper in so many ways. During our last dinner together, my girlfriends and I decided to share the highs and lows of life. It was raw, emotional, and empowering. Each of our highs was this summer but all for different reasons. For me, this summer was not only academically and socially enriching but was positive for my health. These past few years have been tough on everyone, but the effects of the pandemic don’t help when you are forced to handle multiple knee surgeries and a cancer diagnosis on top of that.

Ever since I was little I remember feeling anxious and depressed but in the past few years, it had gotten much worse. I was doing what I could to combat the symptoms by attending weekly therapy sessions and taking daily medications. Don’t get me wrong, I am thankful that I have access to the medication I need and love going to therapy (if you’re my therapist reading this right now, know I love you and am so thankful for you<33) but I felt like I was in a rut. This summer I remembered what it was like to feel pure happiness.

Experiencing true happiness after a prolonged period of emotional struggle is akin to witnessing the first rays of sunlight breaking through heavy clouds after a long storm. It's a moment of profound relief and joy that washes over you, filling your heart with warmth and your soul with a newfound sense of peace. During those difficult times, the weight of worry and sadness seemed never-ending, but now, as happiness returns, it feels like a breath of fresh air. I savor this feeling, cherishing every moment of contentment and gratitude. It's as if a heavy burden has been lifted from my shoulders, allowing me to stand a little taller and smile a little brighter.

I appreciate the small joys that might have gone unnoticed before, finding beauty in the simplest things and feeling grateful for the little blessings that come my way. This newfound happiness comes with a deeper appreciation for resilience and personal growth. I recognize the strength within myself that helped me weather the storm, and take pride in the progress I’ve made. Past struggles no longer define me but rather serve as a testament to my ability to overcome challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.

Feeling truly happy after a long period of difficulty is a powerful reminder of the inherent resilience of the human spirit. It proves that even in the darkest times, the sun will always rise. As I cherish this moment, I carry the knowledge that happiness is not a constant state, but a fleeting and beautiful gift to be treasured whenever it graces my life. In tandem with my incredible support system, I know that I can face whatever life throws my way with courage and determination. I cherish each and every person who makes up this support network, as they have become an integral part of my journey and my heart.

Though I may be leaving the physical space of Botswana, I carry with me the spirit of this land- its resilience, its compassion, and its ability to embrace differences with open arms. This summer has enriched my life in ways words cannot express and for that, I am forever grateful. As I say my final goodbyes, my heart aches, and yet, I know that this farewell is not a final one. The memories we have woven together will remain alive within me, and I look forward to the day I can reunite with the beautiful country and the people that I met along the journey.

I am thankful for the profound impact it had on my life, instilling in me the dedication to work tirelessly for the betterment of communities worldwide. My study abroad journey remains a cherished chapter in my life, and I am eager to contribute my skills, knowledge, and compassion to create a healthier and more equitable world for all.

As the sun sets on my study abroad adventure, I carry with me the lessons and experiences that will forever shape who I am. I know that no matter how many sunsets mark the end of various phases in my life, the sun will always rise again, bringing with it new opportunities, fresh perspectives, and the chance to continue growing and evolving. 

Thank you again for following along. I wish I could give you all a giant squeeze<3

-Abbie

Me and the girls on our last night🫶🏻