Today is the 22^nd of May. Although this may seem like an average, inconsiderate day to most, I have other feelings. This day signals the ending of our incredible class trip to Osnabruck. I am conflicted with feelings of despair and excitement, as a memorable chapter of my summer is closing and opening to another. These past two weeks have been much more than a gateway to Europe. The cultural exchange I have experienced with this trip has left my mind brimming with new perspectives and ideas. However, as made evident by Dr. Kleine’s speech today, it is best to keep one’s head forward and continue. Although I may not look back on these moments during this summer, as I will hopefully continue this adventure with new moments well into August, I know that once the trip comes to an end I will have so much to reflect on with those two weeks in Germany. From here, Europe is my playground.

            After Osnabruck, I plan on traveling extensively throughout Europe. Some of the noteworthy places include a three day excursion to Morocco, adding a whole other dynamic to my trip as well as testing the waters for future travels that could possibly include Africa. In Morocco I plan on making a straight shot to the exotic town of Marrakesh. Along the way I hope to ride through the Sahara on a camel expedition as well as observe some of the natural elements of beauty present in the country. Another noteworthy point in my travels is a short trip to Sardinia. There I plan to rent a motor scooter and ride through the island witnessing all of the raw beauty of this Italian island. I plan to end my trip with a two week stay in Greece. My grandmother owns an apartment in Greece where I will be basing all of my travels from. She also owns houses in several small villages where I plan to spend a night or two observing a simpler side of Greece. Lastly, I plan to hike Mt. Olympus to figuratively be as close to my ancestral Gods as man could.

            Besides this, I would like to thank Mr. Lucien, Dr. Kleine, Anne, Sara, Tatitana, our IFT partners, the citizens of Germany, and most importantly our intellectual and high-spirited students of the Germany honors class. I wish the best of luck to all of you, including your travels this summer as well as any future endeavors you pursue in your life.

Take Care