by Baylee Dyer

Leading up to leaving New Zealand I was excited. But the reality hit that I was really leaving when I was at the airport walking away from my parents. It’s a surreal feeling walking through an airport by yourself knowing you are about to leave everyone and everything you know behind. Especially with no tickets booked for returning to New Zealand, it was a daunting thought that there was no definite date that I would see everyone again.

I had a layover in Sydney first before flying on to Dallas. With a long layover, the boredom definitely set in. The flights were long but I managed to sleep the majority of the time which distracted me from too many nervous thoughts. In Dallas, it was an overwhelming feeling getting through customs. When I did I stepped out the airport door – and the heat hit me (a nice humid 33 degrees)! I spent my first night in America alone in a Motel. Due to the time difference, it was hard to make contact with friends and family. The next morning I flew into Wilmington to stay another night in a motel. These first few days were rough as the jet lag was bad. Combined with being in a foreign country by myself for the first time. Made for a lot of time with just me and my thoughts. 

Since then, I have moved into a dorm with 8 females and started classes. With something always happening it makes coping with homesickness a lot easier. Even tagging along for a trip to the supermarket is exciting. You could spend hours just looking at the variety of foods. I have also made an effort to get involved with UNCW life – going to events, and joining a volleyball team and Clubs. Alongside social events (can confirm frat parties are exactly like the movie) and going to the beach. This is making the adjustment a lot easier.