Arrived in Stockholm

I have finally arrived in Stockholm, Sweden, and WOW, I am so excited to get started. I just came from Paris after spending a week there and I can now finally say that I have experienced a part of Europe. Now I am on to the next chapter and my excitement grows by the day. Going to Paris first was such an amazing experience, and it also really helped me adjust to the time change. When I got to Sweden, I was somewhat already adjusted. So if you are thinking of studying abroad and are able to, I would highly recommend taking a small trip beforehand to get used to the time!

I got here this past Saturday and I was so excited to see my room. Seeing my room only confirmed my expectations. It is absolutely perfect for two people. It is very spacious, but also cozy at the same time. We have two beds, a big table to share, a big piece of furniture to store our clothes, and our own bathroom. We also have a communal kitchen that our whole floor shares together, and it is a great way to get involved with others and interact. It is a space for all of us to get to know each other, cook together, or simply watch television together. Everything we could possibly need is in this room and on this floor, so I am so happy with the room and floor my roommate and I were assigned to.

Since I have been here, I have also been able to explore Stockholm a little bit. I went to the Palace, and also went to the Old Town. The buildings in this area are stunning. I will be sure to continue to explore this city more in depth when things begin to settle down!

Today we had our first day full of mandatory meetings, and it was extremely informative. After today, I feel that I have gained much more knowledge about everything, such as how to print things, how to start our European phones, how to navigate the transportation systems, and much more. All of the students then went on to explore a part of the city which was so much fun. Personally, I now have a better feel for the area in general; however, I still have some work to do as far as getting to know where things are.

Although today was very exciting and informative, there were some challenges. A few students and I got somewhat lost while trying to find out way home. We took the wrong bus out about an extra 25 minutes, and then had to find our way back. We managed to get ourselves home, and it was definitely a learning experience for all of us. The biggest challenge for me these next few days will be getting a routine with how to use the transportation system here. However, Im sure that will come with time!

For the mean time, I am simply going to enjoy being in Sweden, make sure I am organized for this upcoming week, and meet as many new people as possible! I am so grateful to be here and I do not want to take a day for granted.

Bye for now 🙂

Valerie