It's now been a month and a week since my return to my home in the US of A. And although part of me thinks this post is overdue, I know that's not at all true. I know that it's going to take much more time for me to fully understand and appreciate all that I have learned and experienced during my 5 months in New Zealand. But in the interest of closing out this blog, here's what I've come up with so far.
One of the most prominent lessons I've learned is that it's a Small World. Of course, that's a phrase that get's thrown around a lot, but it is completely true. Even after 18 hours on a plane, there are still McDonalds on every corner, iPhones in everyone's pocket, and Katy Perry on the radio. These were some of the unfortunate aspects of the Global American influence that greatly diminished the culture shock. But luckily all it took was a set of wheels and advice from the locals to find what I was looking for, which brings me to my next lesson...
The World is still wild and unexplored (if you're willing to find it). We've all heard the scares about global overpopulation and how one day we'll run out of land. Well I can tell you that won't happen for a damn long time. The population of New Zealand is 4 million, half that of New York City while NZ is 220 times bigger than NYC. Of course, that's an extreme example, but there were times when we would be driving on the busiest road on the island and not see another car for hours. And there were times I hiked into the woods and found a level of absolute silence I didn't know existed.
One thing I will always miss about New Zealand is the people. It was like there were no strangers in the whole country. You could (and I did) start talking to anyone on the street and before you know it, they're inviting you to their home for dinner. It's hard to describe how genuinely warm and over-the-top friendly these people are. It was rather sad to come back here and see people walking with headphones on, heads down and avoiding eye contact. We're all in this together, why not pay an extra dollar for the car behind you at the tolls or hold the door open for someone? Maybe at least smile at a stranger?
The people of New Zealand taught me to never take life too seriously. We're all going to die eventually, so why not have a fun time while we're here? It's really not the end of the World if a car cuts you off or you fail a test. Life goes on. Kiwi's are pro's at laughing at themselves and not taking anything personally. That's why in New Zealand you could freely ask someone what their salary is or playfully insult them to the point that an average American would call it verbal assault. Laughter really is the best medicine.
Only 1% of American college students study abroad, and I am so incredibly grateful to have been given this opportunity to be part of that one percent. Without the help of UNH, AustraLearn, and the University of Otago I would have been so lost. I also could not have enjoyed my time there without the support of my friends back home, always messaging me to see how things are and being there for me when I got back. But of course, my biggest support system has been my Mom and sisters. Aside from the enormous financial help (thank$ Mom!), they would always stay up late to skype with me and would always make me smile with facebook posts saying how much they miss me. I love you girls so much!
Some people have asked me how the trip has changed me. That's a tricky one that may be easier for people back home to answer. I'd like to think that I have become more independent, more open-minded, and more confident. Like I said before, I think it will take some time before I know the answer to that one.
When it comes down to it, I'm very proud of experience in New Zealand. At 21, I flew half-way across the globe to live on my own for 5 months in a foreign country. I travelled as much as I could during those 5 months and saw so much of the South Island. I met some incredible people who I will never ever forget. I bungy-jumped 440 feet. I hitch-hiked 200 miles by myself. I kissed a kangaroo and ate a kangaroo steak (in Australia). I spent all my money and then some. I hiked a lot and saw places that quite literally took my breath away.
And I don't have a single regret.
Thanks again to everyone who kept up with this blog, I really do appreciate it!
Signing out for the final time,
See ya later!
