Emily ’28 reflects on learning how to explore, finding joy in new experiences, bonding with friends, and deepening her relationship with herself.
Today was our last day as a group in France, and I couldn’t believe that more than three weeks had gone by. The first thing we did was visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. After visiting so many churches, I found myself wandering around looking for the same things I usually do. From this trip, I’ve learned how to explore, found joy in new experiences, and deepened my relationship with myself.
Aside from my own personal growth, I realized how grateful I am to have bonded with the girls on this trip. We’ve become so close, and today we visited the Galeries Lafayette department store together. It’s been a trip with my best friends, and we had a great time shopping, taking pictures, and sharing a meal.
I think what has really bonded all of us on this trip are our shared experiences. It started with group meals, where we got to talk, share, learn, and reflect together. Since then, there have been many more moments like this—taking the metro, staying up late, and exploring the city. Even tonight, we stayed up late reliving the best moments from the trip and promising to make space in our lives for experiences like this again.
This evening, our last activity was a picnic and boat ride on the Seine. Under one bridge, we were told to make a wish, and I think everyone in the group wished that this trip would never have to end. We all loved watching the sunset, and the Eiffel Tower light show was the perfect way to wrap up our time together.
