31 days until my flight
august 19, 2025
pre-flight diary | 31 days out
today was just another rollercoaster of emotions — it was the first day of school.
💭had i decided to stay where i was instead of taking the leap to move, i would have started another year of teaching today. the emotions hit me hard — i miss my students, i MISS my coworkers/friends, and i miss having a clear purpose every day. there i was feeling all sad and conflicted about my decision.
so i spent some time scrolling through some photos from last year :) but then i realized i was romanticizing HARD.
while i do love teaching and my students, i am a little relieved to have a break from the american education system. and i made the decision to go back to school to be a better educator in the future. i am focusing my full attention on this degree so that i can get the most out of it — for my students.
but here’s the bright side: i get to start my school year in a whole new way. instead of lesson planning and grading, i’m planning adventures. i’m trading in my classroom for cobblestone streets, new cultures, and the chance to grow in ways i can’t even imagine yet. i’m reminding myself this isn’t the end of teaching — it’s a pause, a reset, and a chance to come back stronger.
plus, how many people get to say they get a “first day of school” in scotland?
✨ tell me — do you ever romanticize your old routines, or are you more excited by change and new beginnings?
#BackToSchool #movingabroad #digitaldiary #lifeinmy20s #newchapter
As the departure date approaches with just 31 days left, it is common to experience a mix of emotions reflecting on past routines and anticipating future changes. Many individuals facing a move abroad can relate to the bittersweet feelings of leaving familiar environments, especially when it involves stepping away from purposeful careers like teaching. In this context, planning ahead is essential, not only for logistics but also for mental preparedness. Taking a break from the American education system to pursue further studies abroad can be a strategic decision for educators seeking growth and enhanced skills. This pause allows for valuable personal development, cultural immersion, and academic advancement, which ultimately contribute to being a more well-rounded and effective teacher. One exciting aspect of moving abroad and beginning school in a new country like Scotland is the opportunity to experience different teaching methodologies, educational philosophies, and cultural perspectives. Engaging with diverse communities broadens worldviews and fosters adaptability. It also rejuvenates passion for education by offering fresh challenges and inspirations. Additionally, departing from routine lesson planning to planning life adventures offers a unique form of renewal. Exploring cobblestone streets, immersing in new cultures, and building new friendships create enriching experiences that complement academic and professional goals. For those preparing for such transitions, it is helpful to balance nostalgia for the past with enthusiasm for the future. Romanticizing former routines is natural, but embracing new beginnings encourages resilience and opens doors to unforeseen opportunities. For fellow digital diary keepers and readers, sharing such reflections enhances community support and inspires others contemplating similar journeys. Using hashtags like #BackToSchool, #movingabroad, and #newchapter can connect individuals navigating these life changes. Overall, this countdown to flight is more than a logistical milestone—it represents a transformative journey towards growth, exploration, and renewed purpose.