"Live Long and Prosper."

2 days ago, I took my first trip to Disneyland. Nothing else could have culminated my incredible four-day rendez-vous with Adrienne (and a number of new amazing friends) in Los Angeles than a day of sun in the place where all your dreams come true. Adrienne and I were on the way to LAX, and it had been one of those days that make you wonder how one person can be so blessed. After much anticipation for this entire semester, I finally met my entire study abroad team in the airport waiting to board our flight at little after 1am. Whether fear, anxiousness or excitement painted the faces in front of me, one thing was consistent: we were ready! There are only 11 students building the heart of our team; however, we represent 5 different campuses across the US. And as I shook many hands, already failing to remember some names in my head, I thought to myself: this is it! This trip of a lifetime is finally here! Although I adore Asia and meeting new people, embarking on this journey is the farthest I have been from my “comfort zone” in a long time.

14 hours and a surprisingly refreshing night’s sleep later, we managed to land soundly and skip Monday altogether. It is amazing how time can fly. J So, there we were, finally landed on God’s wonderful earth, en route to the National Taiwan Sport University (NTSU). 

How this culture values hospitality and joy truly amazes me. We were welcomed with photos, gifts, and a ceremony including lively introductions of the staff and dance performances. I could get used to seeing so many smiling faces every day! But what meant the most to me was the measure that our host students and faculty went to make sure we felt welcomed and wanted. For the next three weeks, I found that I am partnered with two NTSU students named Da-Man and Mental. It’s no joke! They chose these “American” names for themselves in a fun way to embrace the culture we bring here. Da-Man and Mental are best friends, love to pick on each other, and have already given me the nickname CC.

We spent the remainder of the afternoon getting friendly with the athletic training students here, touring the beautiful campus, and going over the outline of this incredible program they have put together for us. Though they stumble with forming full sentences, the NTSU students are so eager to practice their English with us. Everyone here is absolutely perfect, and as I look around at the rest of my team, I can already see so many friendships taking root.

In the evening, we took a bus into the city to receive “special” foot massages and enjoy a buffet dinner with a variety of American, Chinese, and even Italian food to choose from! Although the humidity and smell of the streets remind me of the Philippines, Taiwan is so different than any place I have been to before. Convenience stores line the streets and a multihued canvas of signs light up the night by sunset. The conversations and laughs come easy here, and I think it is more than safe to say that I already love this country.