First of all this video is a summation of me fighting back tears and reminiscing on what I learned and because of that it literally makes no sense at all. So I decided to write a little excerpt on what I actually wanted to say. So consider this a translation:  

My experience abroad was unlike anything I’ve ever felt before. I had the opportunity to go to Paris, and spend a couple days in Scotland. As I look back on what I learned I realize that I learned more than just geography(I didn’t know the difference between the UK and Britain and England and I thought Paris was Italy…I’m really smart. What can I say?). Its one thing when to learn something at a desk and its a whole new experience by immersing yourself in another culture, breathing, feeling, and grasping every new experience as your own. 

I came here with intention of studying theatre but I didn’t study it, I was enlightened by the deeply rooted culture. I was able to see shows at fringe venue’s, The National, Hampstead theatre, and even homeless shelters. Our teachers encouraged independent learning by experience and for that I will always be grateful.

I moved around a lot, as a kid, and I was never able to call any place home, but that all changed this semester. London is my home now and for the first time in my life I felt accepted by being me. I was surrounded by love in a way that made me feel important and worthy. It took a trip to London to figure that out but I wouldn’t have it any other way. 

 A year ago study abroad was just a dream but it became something that was tangible with hope. I hoped and prayed for years to get out of the small town of State College. I finally did and now with my last hours before boarding my plane (I never thought I would say this) I miss that rinky dink old town. I miss the cows, I miss strangers stopping to smile at you, I miss camping, Wal-mart, and tree’s. I miss the smell of manure and the smallest mall known to man kind. I miss the tradition of being in a college town. I miss State College (Eww that just sounds weird). But most of all I miss my family and I’ll never forget the family that I created here in my home away from home-London.