Expectations.

I am getting so anxious, and nervous about our up coming trip. I am however looking forward to getting to know my roommate, and fellow travelers more. I am the only social work student attending. So it is a little intimidating not really knowing anyone very well. With that being said I am looking forward to getting to know each of the nursing students traveling along with me. I think that this course and the trip is going to fly by. I expect it to be fast paced, fun, and to gain a lot of knowledge. I am most excited about learning about the culture and what the city has to offer. I have heard great things and I am grateful to find out for myself just what New Orleans's has to offer. I decided to take this course because I love to travel and learn about the diversity in each state, country, and city I have visited. Also my social work chair Dr. Wolfe has said great things about this course and recommended I take it, she felt it could really benefit my education. I am looking forward to trying new things and being able to learn about a new city, and new population, and new cultures. This trip I feel is going to be a good one. T-Minus 3 days!
                                   - See you soon Louisiana.

 http://www.travelandleisure.com/local-experts/new-orleans/best-spots-for-a-girls-getaway-in-new-orleans

Preperation is key...

What a whirlwind these last few weeks have been. Finals, Christmas, work, you name it, it has happened. I have been focusing so much on what is going on around me, the time has slipped away and here we are three days away from our departure. I have however found sometime to get started packing. I drug out my big ole suitcase, and received a carry on bag for Christmas which is going to come in handy! I did end up buying some new clothes as well, because I wanted to fit in a little more with the culture around me (and I am not complaining about new clothes). I have had to do some research about the styles that are commonly worn, and of course the weather plays a big part in what I can and cannot wear. The biggest issue I have ran into thus far about being gone for a week, is my work schedule. I am a cheerleading coach for my local high school, and have had to make arrangements for chaperones for the practices and games I will miss, what a nightmare! On a more positive note, I have been looking into the train and what to expect and I am very excited. This will be my first time on a train and I am looking forward to this new experiance. There has been a lot going on this winter and with our trip coming so soon, I almost feel behind and we haven't even left yet. I am looking forward to leaving and experiencing new and exciting things however I feel I may have underestimated the time it takes to prepare for the class, and the trip.