They were there for my first birthday without my mom, making sure I knew that I was like family here. I never felt alone, and I am torn up having to say goodbye to them.
On top of that, the memories I made with my friends. I am not much of a party person, but with the right crowd, I can have fun. I was very lonely in New York before I went abroad. Now next year I have friends to hang out with in NYC! I got to meet people I probably wouldn't have met at the New York campus, and they have become the highlight of my college/university experience. I'm going to miss not seeing them every day, but it's not a goodbye for now, just a see you later.
Next year, I am entering my third and final year at NYU. Fun fact: I graduated high school and got my Associate degree at the same time, so I could take a year off of my undergraduate studies! I am very grateful for the opportunity to go to school across the country and spend a semester in Argentina. This wouldn't have been possible without the support from NYU financial aid, federal grants and the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship! With the help of these organizations and institutions, I was able to embark on this journey and share it with all of you.
For those of you interested in pursuing higher education, and studying/working abroad, look into the financial aid offices of the institutions and see if they offer scholarships or grants for studying abroad, or see if you qualify for their financial aid packages (filing out the FAFSA is a MUST!!!!) Also, look for outside scholarships. A simple Google search can make a HUGE difference for you!
