and I'm sorry to say that I am probably responsible for the loss of somewhere between three and four hours of trees, at that rate.
Now I know what you're thinking.
ERIN! Think of the environmental impact! The loss of habitat! Loss of OXYGEN! Don't you know how many species of animals, plants, and microorganisms are lost every year because of deforestation??
Well first of all; Yes. I do. About 50,000.... but let me explain. What could cause an earth-loving girl like me to commit such an atrocity!? One word: PAPERWORK.
Since I started this whole study abroad process, I feel as if I have gone through a forests-worth of paper. Applications, forms, letters, instructions, and, most importantly, photocopies. Tons and tons of photocopies.
This process has definitely taught me a little about how to navigate through the notorious bureaucracy in the U.S. as well as in France, and a LOT about the importance of organization. I'm no slob, but I have never been quite so organized as I am with this process. I think staying organized has helped to significantly minimize the stress that I have experienced so far.
I can't say the same for my parents; even if they don't show it, I'm pretty sure they are freaking out.
I say all this so that I can reassure prospective study-abroad-ers that the process is VERY doable, and there is no reason to be intimidated--but it definitely helps to be neat and stay on top of everything.
Actually, who am I kidding, I am saying all this because I like to ramble on about things. But hey, if I can offer a little advice from my experiences in the rambling process, then great! Stay organized, read instructions, and keep everything together so it's easy to find.
Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go nurse my paper cuts and restock my supply of blue-or-black-ink pens for Erin vs. paperwork, round 3!
Now I know what you're thinking.
ERIN! Think of the environmental impact! The loss of habitat! Loss of OXYGEN! Don't you know how many species of animals, plants, and microorganisms are lost every year because of deforestation??
Well first of all; Yes. I do. About 50,000.... but let me explain. What could cause an earth-loving girl like me to commit such an atrocity!? One word: PAPERWORK.
Since I started this whole study abroad process, I feel as if I have gone through a forests-worth of paper. Applications, forms, letters, instructions, and, most importantly, photocopies. Tons and tons of photocopies.
This process has definitely taught me a little about how to navigate through the notorious bureaucracy in the U.S. as well as in France, and a LOT about the importance of organization. I'm no slob, but I have never been quite so organized as I am with this process. I think staying organized has helped to significantly minimize the stress that I have experienced so far.
I can't say the same for my parents; even if they don't show it, I'm pretty sure they are freaking out.
I say all this so that I can reassure prospective study-abroad-ers that the process is VERY doable, and there is no reason to be intimidated--but it definitely helps to be neat and stay on top of everything.
Actually, who am I kidding, I am saying all this because I like to ramble on about things. But hey, if I can offer a little advice from my experiences in the rambling process, then great! Stay organized, read instructions, and keep everything together so it's easy to find.
Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go nurse my paper cuts and restock my supply of blue-or-black-ink pens for Erin vs. paperwork, round 3!
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