By Anastasia C.
Group 4

Upon signing up for this study abroad, I knew absolutely nothing about El Camino de Santiago. I had never heard of it. The only thing I did know was that I wanted to participate in a study abroad and going to Spain sounded amazing. After learning about the history of this pilgrimage, however, my excitement and curiousity grew beyond its bounds. I believe myself to be a deeply spiritual and philosophical person so the opportunity to travel along this road that thousands of pilgrims have walked before to find personal and spiritual fulfillment is a chance I’m eager to grab at.

The longing for me comes from my ever-growing wanderlust and continuous desire to grow as an individual. The calling happened after class one day with Professor Lukens-Bull. He announced that there was going to be a meeting after class for a study abroad that he was participating in and I didn’t even think about it; I just agreed to go. Which is strange for me. I overthink everything. My inner monologue is always making me doubt myself and my decisions. After hearing about the trip in this meeting and learning that it counted for six credits, which is the exact amount I need to fulfill my major class requirements, I knew it was meant to be and decided right then and there that I was going to do it. You know what they say; if you think about it for too long, you will probably never do it. Just go. And that’s exactly what I did. The departure has not happened yet although it is only only hours away from now. I hope to find peace, learn more about myself, and possibly come to understand my life’s calling along the Camino. I am truly humbled and feel blessed to be able to make this journey and can not wait to walk my feet along the well-traveled road.