“We didn’t realise we were making memories, we just knew we were having fun.”
– Winnie the Pooh
It has been a year and a half since I last updated you all on my adventures and wow have I a got a lot to tell you. In that time I have lived in two different countries, started a long-distance relationship, and began learning a new language. 2021 was the year I needed to find myself again after the challenges of 2020. I am proud of my recent achievements and grateful for the opportunities. In my next few blog posts I would like to reflect on those experiences but for now let me reintroduce myself and let you know what I am currently up to.
My current focus and where I am mentally/geographically:
I am in my 2nd semester of my 3rd year at the University of St. Andrews studying International Relations and Spanish. This academic year I am on an Erasmus Exchange in which I spent my first semester focusing on the IR part of my degree at Sciences Po in Paris, and this semester I am studying Spanish at Universidad de Alcalá, in the Community of Madrid. Right now I have been lucky to take a break from working part-time and my sole focus has become studying and simply enjoying this incredible experience.
Mentally throughout my time abroad, there have been ups and downs (as there are with everything) and new challenges to face surrounding living abroad and speaking different languages. But I am trying to take it all in my stride and attempting to ebb and flow with the tide. I appreciate every moment, and am extremely grateful to be in this position.
Why am I writing this blog:
I started Laura Jane Adventures as a way to document my experience in the United States as a FLAG exchange student, and since then I have posted content about solo travels and trips around Scotland. I have never been consistent with this blog, which is something I hope to change because I want to help people who are having or would like to have similar experiences. I am writing this blog as a way to document my own memories but also to create a resource for exchange students, those undertaking an internship, and simply anyone who wants to travel and talk openly.
My plans for this summer:
The Laura Jane Adventure continues…. and this summer I am over the moon to say I have secured an Internship through Entrepreneurial Scotland as one of this years Saltire Scholars. I will be working with Scotland Shop as their Business Development Intern in Albany, in New York State. I am so excited and eager to spend more time in the United States. The company specialise in tartan and we both share passions about the heritage of Scotland and traditions which come with being Scottish. When I first applied for the programme it was my aim to get an internship in the USA, I worked hard throughout the application process, manifested, and I am extremely happy to say it all paid off. Especially as I am undertaking an internship that aligns with my personality and interests.
What can you expect to see on this blog in the future:
I would like to write reflections about the past few years, emotions, share resources that might be useful, but overall I want to be honest. I hope to share the joy I find in simple things like a good coffee or my neighbour saying buenos días. My aim is to share my adventures not only through the lens of travel but the everyday adventures that come with living .
Speak soon!
Lots of love,
LJ x
Laura-Jane Adventures 