Packing for 4 months is a challenge. Besides going to college, I have never been on a trip for longer than a week. So, it has been quite a task trying to decide what to bring. Even deciding between pants is tough. I find myself asking, “But what if ____?” way too often. I guess I will just have to pack light and hope for the best!

I am getting excited about my classes for the semester. I will be taking 15 credits, which is the same amount of credits I typically take at WashU. Two of the courses, Immunology and Infectious Diseases and Neurodegenerative Diseases, will count for my biology major. You can follow the links to learn more about the classes! I am looking forward to having smaller, focused science classes, as opposed to large lectures.

My Core Course for the program is called Translational Medicine: From Bench to Bedside. I am looking forward to this class because it focuses on how clinical research is applied to patient care. In this class, we will also be going on a week-long study tour in Paris! 

The last two classes on my schedule are The Vikings and Glued to the Screen: TV Shows, Norms, and Culture. They sound so interesting and fun. I mean… When else will I be able to take a class on the vikings? I couldn’t not sign up for that one!

It is currently a week before my departure date. Amidst the scramble to pack and get prepared to head overseas, I’ve fit in some self-reflection time. I am feeling a mixture of excitement, nervousness, happiness, and stress all at once. For some reason, the little things are stressing me out the most. Where will I buy shampoo? What if I get on the train in the wrong direction? How many times will I embarrass myself attempting to order coffee? More than anything, though, I am curious and optimistic about what this semester will bring: A new home, a new culture, new friends, and a new lifestyle. The excitement of what’s to come helps me to throw all of the little worries aside. Sweden, I’ll see you soon!