Am I really leaving for Germany in 12 hours? Someone pinch me!

Sorry Chris, I am sure that mine is the last pre-departure post. I always do this to myself; without fail I can never be packed, ready, and asleep at a decent hour the night before I leave for international travel. Despite my best efforts to start packing early, I am still awake...anxious and excited...typing my thoughts. This week has been a craze of packing, buying needed supplies, booking hostels, trying to find a job for the end of the summer, and tying up loose ends...but I am very excited and ready for our journey in Germany.

I have traveled on many programs before and I love to travel and explore new places. I could not pass up an opportunity like this trip. I have never done an organized Veterinary program in Europe, so I think this will be a very eye-opening experience. Additionally, I am really excited to interact with Veterinary students in another country and be able to compare/contrast Veterinary medicine in Europe. I only briefly was able to talk to the German students that visited, so I am really excited to meet them in their home and get an insider's view of the country.

I have heard such wonderful things about this program, that I know, no matter what, I will have a great time. All the excursions Dr. Wasser and AIB have planned for us really makes me believe we will get a good tour of the country and learn as much as possible in 3 weeks, while still enjoying the culture. I cannot even say that I am excited for one thing in particular, each day has an interesting component that I am interested to see or hear about.

Previously, I have traveled to countries where Spanish is the main language (which I have a moderate knowledge of), however, I know hardly any German. This does make me nervous, even though I know many people speak English and Dr. Wasser will be helping us most of the way. I know how helpful it can be to speak the language and how much more you can get out of the experience. Even though I feel unprepared in this aspect, I know that I will be able to find my way around despite language barriers. This also heightens my desire to absorb as much as I can of the language while I am there.

I am ready for the journey to begin. Bring it on, Germany. Here I come!