Just Do It.

Picking up and moving abroad can have its challenges, but it can also be the key to unlocking the doors to a life full of limitless joy and adventure.

During festival season in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. There are so many celebrations...I could barely keep up!

It was the beginning of 2013 when I had decided that it was about time for me to take the leap and move to a different country. Since at least middle school, I knew that I wouldn’t even stay in California for college, so I was definitely ready for some major change. At this point, I had already graduated and continued to spend the next few years in Atlanta. I was comfortable and [somewhat] established working as a natural hair stylist.

Eventually I began checking job postings regularly and researching different professions that expats held abroad. I found out that the possibilities are really unlimited, but the most common way people around my age found work was through teaching English. One day I saw a deal for 50% off of a 20-hour TESOL course, so I bought it right then. Before I even finished the course, I began applying for jobs, and within a couple weeks, I had Skype interviews lined up and eventually signed the contract for a job in Upper Mongolia (China)...(long story, I'll tell later).

Long story short, I stumbled upon a different opportunity in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where I was made the volunteer director for Art Heals, a campaign started by the Artists for Charity organization.**

A few days before my 25th birthday, I was on the plane with most of my belongings packed into 2 suitcases.

Living in Ethiopia taught me so much. I struggled, indulged, learned, loved a lot…and hated some things (just a little bit). I was welcomed with open arms and learned a lot, not just about Ethiopia, but about myself and what I was capable of.

Had to hand/foot wash my clothes. It was fun until I realized that I had to do it every time.....

There were times where I missed the convenience of some services in the U.S. and I found myself frustrated and feeling like an outsider in some circles, but honestly that didn't last long. I made friends and built a network of people who helped me adjust and really made me feel loved.

Learning to prepare Buna (coffee) the traditional way--- mmm, I miss that smell!

Overall, my first experience living abroad showed me that I was able to survive and thrive in a completely new environment. Language barriers don't have to be a huge issue if you try to adapt and open your mind. And you're never too old to learn! I took public transportation and had to bargain prices for things in the market---I'll admit that it was a bit overwhelming at times, but I eventually got used to it. I gained lifetime friends and got to explore a beautiful country and experience its people and cultures for more than a year.

I DO NOT miss taking public transportation....for the B.I.R.D.S.

Since then, I've moved to 2 other countries.

If you're reading this and you've been battling with the thought of picking up and starting a new journey abroad....JUST DO IT! Do a little research, join expat groups on social media networks and ask questions. It is really not that hard---but you wouldn't know if you never tried.

:)

**Art Heals is a wonderful program that sought to bring joy to children in local hospitals in Addis Ababa. Volunteers painted the walls with bright and colorful pictures to serve as art therapy for healing. S/O to everyone at A.F.C.!