August 28 was a blur.

I just remember stepping on the plane, sitting around for hours, nearly missing my connecting flight, and taking my first step on French grounds the following morning, at the Charles de Gaulle airport.

On the car ride to the CEA Paris Center, I was in total and complete awe. Everything was just so different. Sure, Paris had some similarities to Los Angeles… But, in its entirety? It was a completely unique scene: the people were dressed differently, the buildings were elegant, and everything was in French.

Admittedly, the initial experience was overwhelming, in a good way. There were so many things to see in every direction, every blink of an eye felt like a missed opportunity!

There were a lot of firsts. My first step on a Parisian cobblestone street. My first melt-in-your-mouth bite of a fresh baguette. My first trip up the vintage, wooden stairs and into the adorable little room that would be my home for the next four months.

And after those experiences, I wasn’t sure why I was so nervous in the first place.

In reality, August 28 was a blur because it happened so smoothly. I spent a large chunk of the day worrying about whether or not the flights would be on schedule, or if I were going to lose my luggage, or if I were going to get lost in the airport. I was so, so blessed. This was my first trip abroad on my own, and it could not have gone any smoother.

Fast forward to August 29: my first day in Paris. I spent the day navigating the metro system, meeting and getting to know the people in my program, snacking on delicious crepes, and walking around the 3rd arrondissement. I even completely unpacked my suitcases and added some personal touches to my room.

That night, as I settled in my bed and stifled a yawn, a couple of thoughts ran through my mind:

Where should I go next? What should I do next? The possibilities were truly endless.

The entire journey felt so incredibly surreal. Am I really in Paris, France?