Natalie Abroad: 5 Week, 3 Day Anniversary

Today is the 5 week and 3 day anniversary of my arrival to Longridge Towers School. Seriously where does the time go? It's been an easy transition for me into the new school because of how similar it is to Highland Park High School. The kids, the classes offered, the movement between classes, everything closely resembles the structure of HP. Obviously there are slight differences that, added up, make it an interesting and new experience. I think the fact that I speak the same language as the kids and we grew up in similar cultures made it easy for me to fit in and get along with the students at school. Although, Carmen found it an easy transition as well even though she speaks a different language.

I have had a less easy time getting used to the rules and structure of the boarding house. While I understand completely that all rules laid out have a purpose and are put there with good intention, I feel that some of the rules are unnecessary. Overall, it has just been different and it will take time for me to adjust to having specific time frames that things must be done in. I prefer how at home I have the freedom to choose what time I do my homework, how long I spend on it, and I have more flexibility regarding prioritizing homework and my social life.

That being said, everyone in the boarding house is here to help me and all of the kids are very friendly. It's like living with 30 brothers and sisters! The best part is that when we go to school if we see another boarder we say 'hi!' and 'how are you?' and 'how is your day going?'. Knowing all of these people makes me feel included and like I have been at the school my whole life! I love it and it makes me feel very at home.

And here, for your enjoyment, are some random pictures from the last week :)