These five photos mean so much to me because they represent the beginning of my study abroad experience in Paris. When I arrived in Paris, I knew what I was getting myself into. Having visited the city multiple times before, I was already pretty comfortable here. It was an absolute rush meeting new people, going to new classes, and visiting new places (in and outside of Paris). I am astonished at how much my friends and I managed to see and experience in those first weeks. Now, I am writing this post in October; the leaves are starting to change and the rain clouds are pushing in slowly over the horizon. Looking back at the photos I took during this time, I am reminded of how much has changed between now and then. Beautiful though they were, those humid, end-of-summer days were exhausting, both physically and mentally. The change of weather has been a kind of turning point for me, personally. I feel myself less running around, trying to complete a never-ending to-do list, and actually feeling more settled in here in Paris, with a true sense of home and belonging. I look forward to seeing what this new chapter of life abroad has in store.
