I have left my heart in so many places

When I was in college I knew I wanted to live abroad for a year. With the help and support of my parents in August 2012 I left for Switzerland to get my masters. I left behind my family and friends and my little bubble of comfort. I knew absolutely no one and only had my memories of my semester abroad to get me around the city. I ended up meeting some of my closest friends, and having one of the  most amazing years. I fell in love with Lugano and Switzerland all over again. After I graduated I extended my stay for the summer in order to work as an intern for a start-up. Among many other activities, I traveled the world with my school, I skied the Swiss Alps with Shannon, went boating on Lake Lugano, hiked more Swiss mountains and Swiss tripped with Jeannie.

In October 2013, I once again packed my life into suitcases and headed back across the pond for a job. Destination: Paris! Although I was going over knowing a few people, I didn't know the city or the language. Between French classes and work, I experienced a different kind of Paris. I learned the culture, the language and way of life. Through it all, I met life long friends who helped make the year as incredible as it was.

This past summer, I closed my suitcases up for the last time and headed back across the Atlantic. When I left for Switzerland in 2012 I thought I would be back the following May, I never thought that I would stay for 2 years. I also had no idea how much I would learn, how many amazing friends I would meet and how much I would change and accomplish. I fell in love with two amazing and beautiful cities and although I may not know exactly when I will return, I know in my heart I will. The past two years have helped shape me into the person I am today, and for that I am eternally grateful.