As I reflect back on my trip, I have an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I can’t help but think of what a privilege it was to have the opportunity to experience the things I did while abroad in New Zealand. It was interesting and eye-opening to interact with a culture so different from the United States. While I did constantly find myself comparing the two countries, I noticed there were similarities that seemed universal. Not only was I able to learn new things from local residents, but something that surprised me was what I learned from my own classmates on the trip. It was nice to get to know and learn from people I would not have normally met organically on campus. Now, I get to take those friendships and experiences with me back to Bama and let it influence my life for the better. I can’t lie, it is a little overwhelming to have all these memories and lessons and to now just be back to my normal life. I keep waking up thinking I have a million things to go see and do. Slowly, I have started to try to get back into my routine (and get rid of the jet lag), but also try to implement all the lessons I have learned while travelling. I want to be able to treat others with the same welcoming and fair attitudes I was met with in the wonderful, beautiful country of New Zealand. Even though my trip was on the shorter side for study abroad, I certainly do not regret it and am grateful for all of the people, places, and cultures I got to learn from.