Gabrielle Lamontagne

Lately, I've been taking time each day to count my blessings. Not only do I have an amazing support network of family and friends, but I have been blessed with this opportunity to live and study so far from home – especially during a global pandemic. Each day in London is beautiful in a new way – even when I don't leave my room for more than a half hour walk. Being here and spending so much time reading and writing truly makes me feel happy.

Walking home from the campus library late this afternoon, a sense of euphoria came over me and took over an hour to dissipate.

I am excited to announce that I'm loving my classes! That's probably not a huge surprise, considering I'm well known for my love of reading, discussing literature, and writing. Still, it's reassuring to know that I picked the right field of study.

Johnny Cash and I finally have something in common. After several days in self-isolation, I found myself watching the cars go by outside the gate of Old Court courtyard from the hall window and wondering, will I ever be free again? It really brought home “Folsom Prison Blues”. I spent a lot of time fluctuating between reading Two Towers, reading ahead of classes, writing, watching television, and playing games on my phone. My body became so annoyed at the sitting position, that I spent a few hours dancing around my room to a Spotify playlist. Even with all these activities to keep me busy, the cabin fever was creeping into my soul.

Cats of the wild are known for being predators, fearless. However, the second flight was bumpier than I'm used to or enjoy. I did arrive safely in London, of course. In fact, reaching my campus was not difficult in the least.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” - Saint Augustine Those of you who know me, know I'll be spending a year in London and that I intend to spend my time wisely in the UK, studying and traveling. Adventuring, if you will. In fact, my adventures have already begun.