Well…. it’s over! I’m not ready to leave yet, but I am excited to reunite with my friends and family back home. This truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am immensely grateful for all the friends I made and the memories I created over these past eight weeks. Time really did fly by. This final week was the perfect way to wrap up my time here.
This past weekend was a free weekend, and a large group of us decided to travel to Amsterdam! It was an incredible experience, and I did so many amazing things. We went on a canal tour, which was possibly my favorite part of the entire trip. Cruising through the picturesque canals, with the sun glistening on the water, was peaceful and relaxing. We also visited the Rijksmuseum, immersing ourselves in its world-renowned art collections. The intricate details and historical significance of the pieces were truly captivating.
On one of our days, we took a day trip to Zaanse Schans, a quaint Dutch village known for its historic windmills and traditional houses. It felt like stepping back in time as we explored the town, complete with working windmills and artisan workshops. We watched a demonstration of wooden shoe carving and sampled some delicious local cheeses. The village was picturesque, with its lush green fields and scenic waterways, offering a perfect contrast to the bustling city of Amsterdam.
We also ventured to Belgium for a day, which was another highlight of the weekend. We visited Brussels, where we marveled at the stunning architecture of the Grand Place and indulged in some of the best chocolate and waffles I’ve ever tasted. It just so happened to be their independence day when we visited, and the city was alive. There were festivals and parades, which we were so lucky to be able to enjoy. I even got to tour their parliament building!
Aside from the major attractions, we also spent time wandering through the vibrant streets of Amsterdam, stumbling upon charming cafes and unique shops. The atmosphere was electric, and the blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy made the city feel alive. We even had the chance to try some local delicacies, such as stroopwafels, which were absolutely delicious.
Today, I wrapped up my internship, and I can’t believe it’s over. I enjoyed my time here immensely and am grateful for the experiences and opportunities afforded to me. My supervisors were incredibly supportive, and I feel like I’ve grown both professionally and personally. I have learned a great deal and will cherish these memories forever.
As I pack my bags and prepare for the journey home, I’m filled with a mix of emotions. I’m sad to leave this beautiful place and the incredible people I’ve met, but I’m also excited to bring back everything I’ve learned and experienced. This entire trip has been a transformative journey, and I’m looking forward to applying the skills and knowledge I’ve gained in my future endeavors.
These past eight weeks have been unforgettable, filled with adventures, learning, and personal growth. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity, and I will carry these memories with me always. Here’s to new beginnings and the lasting impact of this incredible experience.