Here I have included one of the best days of my life in Korea to highlight the hole left in my heart now. The hole is left by my friends who were always there for me to go and eat, play and explore. Kimberly, Verena, Jenna, Deniz, and more along the way. I am so fortunate to have met them and gone on trips and had the best laughs and tears.
I really bonded with many around wintertime. When I was a little more alone during my time I found out who really was there for me and who I got along with most. I went on my trip to Gyeongju and it was still one of the most beautiful areas I have ever seen in my life. I was able to see so many beautiful sights and get lost with these people. So there is also a little piece lost when I had to leave Korea.
I met most of my friends in the dorm or during on-campus activities and I was able to see them every day If I wanted. Kimberly if you haven't noticed was there every single day of my semesters (except for winter break). I was able to take all three trips I wanted with Kimberly and yes all three trips were to the beach. We went to festivals, got lost in random neighborhoods, went clubbing for the first time together, and had long late-night talks. Whoever I met along the way helped me feel at home in Korea.
I made many Korean friends and had one from America as well. Jihye helped me settle in and buy groceries as well and showed me some of the best restaurants I have ever been to. I had real Korean drinking experiences with Jongchan and his friends and always had the best times with them. I was so lucky to have met people who were willing to show me the way and the culture and introduce me to more friends!
Overall how I ended up with those holes in my heart is no surprise. When Deniz left during winter break it was the start and then slowly more and more people left then it was my turn to leave everyone behind. Getting into that taxi to the airport was the hardest thing I had ever done. Let me tell you sobbing while wearing a mask in a Korean taxi is also very embarrassing and I would not like to do it again. Technology is so easy to use I can call them and message them still even if the timezones make it rather difficult. I will not lose them.