This Wisconsinite is taking on the land of Kiwis and hobbits!
"May the wind under your wings bear you where the sun sails and the moon walks." -- J.R.R. Tolkien
Kia ora everyone! Hello! As I write this, I am sitting in my host family's home, listening to the birds sing and the wind blow through the absolutely lush greenery that surrounds this home. I have finally made it to New Zealand and I couldn't be more excited to start this adventure.
I would be lying, though, if I said that it isn't all a little bit overwhelming. I am filled with a mix of emotions. I am in awe of the beauty of this country, ecstatic that I have finally made it safe and sound, filled with gratitude that my host family has welcomed me with open arms, but also beginning to feel the reality set in that I will be away from home for 2 months. As someone who has very deep roots planted in my hometown and Wisconsin, it is a huge step for me to be living in not just in a different state, but in an entirely different country than what I am used to. I know that this adventure will be the adventure of a lifetime, but I also acknowledge that it will come with moments of homesickness and fear. In my opinion though, the best way to grow is to step out of your comfort zone and dive into the great unknown.
So far, I have settled in quite nicely and the fear I had as I packed my bags has begun to subside. I am still nervous about meeting my cooperating teacher and beginning to teach in a culture that I have never experienced before, but I know that the lessons I learn and the situations I experience are only going to make me a better teacher once I return to the states. I absolutely cannot wait to see how classrooms are run and what the education system is like. I know that while I may be nervous now, my confidence is going to increase tenfold when I return because if I can teach in a brand new country then I surely will be able to teach when I am back within my comfort zone.
I hope you will continue to follow me as I move through this journey. I will be sure to post lots of pictures and blogs so that you can see exactly what is going on over here on the other side of the world!
Jessica
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