Anticipation!

Growing up, my family took annual trips in the summer to a beautiful place in Maine.  Its limited cellphone service made it a great way to escape the world and enjoy a more simple side of life.  However, my mom once told me she wished we had spent a few of those summers visiting new locations so my brother, sister, and I could experience other cultures.  Taking this to heart, I decided to do just that.  I created a bucket list and began jumping on opportunities that would take me abroad.  This has probably been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made because I believe traveling to be one of the healthiest things a person can do for themselves.  It broadens the mind, promotes cultural acceptance and brings life into perspective. 

Germany has been on my list ever since I discovered the origin of my last name.  It would be a great experience to see where my ancestors came from and develop a better appreciation for the culture.  A few years ago both my parents took a DNA test and discovered that the vast majority of my DNA, 30%, is Scandinavian.  This slightly altered the way I feel about Germany though I still wish to visit since it takes root in my name.  Scandinavia is now located high on my bucket list but will have to wait for another time. 

Robert Morris University has a fast pace nursing program with very little down time between quarters.  My classmates and I are constantly battling burnout so this program creates a perfect opportunity to achieve several things at once. It’s a break from everyday activities, credit hours are included and my bucket list gets shorter. 

Some of the sights we’ll be seeing throughout the trip are the Berlin Wall, Stonehenge, and Neuengamme Concentration Camp Memorial.  Museums don’t generally interest me when traveling but the Florence Nightingale has been calling me.  After reading about her accomplishments in an earlier nursing class, I look forward to visiting her museum.  

It will be fun to see the touristy parts of the city, but the main thing that I tend to enjoy the most is interacting with the locals.  Cultural differences amuse me to no end.  New foods will be fun to try although I don’t expect there to be too many differences compared to the States.  One of the many things Germany is known for is their beer though unfortunately I won’t be having much, if any at all, since it doesn’t suit my taste.

One of the biggest things I’m super excited about is seeing my Aunt and her family who live in London.  It was an unexpected surprise and a total delight to discover how close this trip is taking me to them!  Our family visits are few and far between so I can’t wait to see all their smiling faces and share stories about this wonderful adventure I’m about to go on!