This week was another fabulous week in Ireland, this one being extra special since my sister, Malena, and dad came for the weekend. At this point in the trip, I felt like a bit of a tour guide, proudly showing my family around the amazing city I have become so familiar with. One thing I wanted to praise for this week was the sense of community through this program and Bucknell in general as this weekend truly highlighted that for me.
I was really looking forward to my sister coming, given she is not just my sister but my best friend. I hadn’t seen her since before I left for the trip, therefore making her visit even more exciting. Before her arrival, I was a bit nervous as I wanted her to really enjoy not just the trip but the people on the trip as well, especially as she is an incoming freshman at Bucknell. In the past, she has always been more selective with who she surrounds herself with and is critical with who my friends are, which comes from a protective standpoint. During this weekend, I really wanted Malena to get to know more people from Bucknell, as not only would it make her start at Bucknell go more smoothly but it would also get her more excited for the four years to come. Being a huge Bucknell lover, Malena knew how much I loved it but I wanted her to get an opportunity to feel that love herself.
The moment she arrived, she was thrilled. She immediately immersed herself into the group and found some good friends right away. I was in shock, given how comfortable she had gotten so quickly. Then I realized why; it’s because of the amazing people at this school and the genuinity of the student body that makes others so comfortable. This weekend made me feel an immense amount of gratitude for the Bucknell community, as my sister, who is one of the most important people in my life, became so comfortable and became so happy to be surrounded with these amazing people. As a big sister, I am very protective of her and seeing how happy she was when doing anything that weekend, made me the happiest big sister ever. After she left she shared how excited she is now to come to Bucknell and cannot wait to spend the coming years with the amazing people she met.
Bucknell continues to showcase such a unique student body which has so much to offer. Where we all connect is our ability to be ourselves and value one anothers differences. This weekend truly reminded me of the special place Bucknell is and made me even more proud to be attending a school with people like this. The people on this program have become my family in the span of two months, and to think this journey is soon to come to an end makes me so sad. I remind myself though that when this comes to an end, we all will go home for a bit and then return to our collective home, Bucknell. I felt it was important this week to discuss how special Bucknell truly is and the amazing community I have found.
Bella,
What an inspiring point about Bucknell’s strong camaraderie between fellow students. I had a great time hanging out with your family. Looking forward to seeing you in Amsterdam. Links Rechts!
Hi Bella,
Thanks for introducing me to my wife
Your wife?! What in the world did I miss in the past week?! I can’t wait to hear the recap!