Last Goodbyes

As I find myself at the end of this exchange semester, it’s impossible not to reflect on the journey that led me to Philadelphia, which was never really on my mind until earlier in April this year. Comparing the version of myself pre-Philly to the one now brings a myriad of differences, yet the same person at the same time. The people I’ve met from diverse corners of the world have been the major contributors to this transformation, shedding light on the stark realities of our global differences.

This exchange, a very late decision, unfolded into an unexpected field of experiences and insights that I had not expected at all, I definitely had underestimated how the experience was initially. It’s truly interesting how unplanned detours often lead us precisely to where we’re meant to be. The city of Philadelphia, with its distinctive character and surprises, became a canvas for personal and academic growth. Drexel University, initially just an academic institution, paved into a haven away from home, an integral part of this transformative chapter. I wouldn’t change a single thing or choices I made during my time here. It’s not all ups during this time which most people think about (to the point where I questioned in my lows whether I was doing something wrong) and its definitely the extreme lows and highs you go through that lead to a very fulfilling experience, knowing you had made a good decision, it is truly a rollercoaster.

As I conclude this chapter, the symphony of reflections carries me back to where this journey began – New York City.

This time, my trips ventured beyond Manhattan and into the other boroughs. This trip was different compared to my other times in NYC, it was a lot lot more crowded during the holiday season. Saks Fifth Avenue, where the Rockefeller Christmas Tree stands, was a bustling hub, and on Sundays, the entire Fifth Avenue shut down to avoid the crowds forming in the area.

Here concludes all the trips, foods, assignments, last-minute plans and seeing snow for the first time. These 4 months have been a true blast and will always remember the moments I had here and hopefully cross paths with the people and the city in the future.