Fate Intervenes

I've never been a big believer in destiny. Maybe it's because I love thinking that I have some control over my life, or that I just don't believe in any higher power pulling the strings of our lives (or both). I also have thought it was an easy way to mask reality and find meaning in mere coincidence. However, some great things have been happening to me lately, that while I certainly don't ascribe them to fate or my innate destiny for greatness, they have certainly improved my life in ways I hadn't expected.

Mostly, this concerns one area: Australia. It is pretty common knowledge that I have been wanting to go on an exchange there next year. However, I recently have settled on plans that make this nearly certain (99%). Not only will I be studying in Adelaide for a semester, but I will also be working there from June-August before classes begin. The exchange is heavily supported by my school, to the point where they are actually giving me some funding! I have never thought it could work out so well or so easily, and I will be living there for longer than I anticipated, which is amazing. So from June to December, consider me an expatriate!!

It has been a dream of mine since I can remember to study abroad, and my commitments in Pittsburgh over the last four years made it impossible. This opportunity gives me an incredible end to an incredible college experience, and I think it's really lucky.

Everything works out for the best sometimes, I guess. I was sad that I didn't get the job in Portland, but this is so much better! And the rest of the semester is looking to be jam-packed with fun things to do. It's going to be a race to the finish, but I'm looking forward to [almost] every minute of it.

Also, I thought I'd share my senior yearbook photo. I'd gotten a bunch taken in February, and in looking over the proofs, this one was our favorite. There are a couple more I also liked, but we'll see if they make the final cut.