It feels like just yesterday I was wheeling my suitcase through Grounds, getting lost and sweating in what felt like 100 percent humidity. Somehow November is already upon us, which means my year of studying abroad is almost halfway through. I’ve been swept up in the initial craziness of the semester — making friends, joining extracurricular activities and juggling the intense workload. But I’ve recently realised that I’ve fallen into the trap of a routine when I should be making the most of my year abroad. So, last Friday, I set myself a challenge to do something new every day for a week.
Day One — Brown College hosts “Hauntings on the Hill”
From pumpkin carving to decorations, the scale of Halloween is a lot greater in the United States than England. I began my “Halloweekend” by going to “Hauntings on the Hill” — an event that raises money for charity and promises to get your heart racing. The effort that went into the production was phenomenal. Costumes? Check. Blood? Check. Dead bodies? Check. People were tied to chairs, stuffed in boxes, collapsed on the ground with various knives protruding from their faces, all while ghosts and ghouls jumped out at us. I have to admit — I screamed more than once.
Day Two — Shenandoah National Park
Despite having only had a few hours of sleep, I woke up early Saturday to get in a car with my friends and hike in Shenandoah National Park. This was on my studying abroad bucket list before I came, and I was not disappointed. The view from the top of Hawksbill Mountain was remarkable, and it was made all the more amazing by the beautiful fall colours. I will definitely be returning to watch a sunset in Shenandoah, hopefully before the winter chill hits.
Day Three — PB&J sandwich
I awoke Sunday to a downpour of rain. “Have I somehow ended up back in England?” I cried, as I watched the gray clouds roll over the sky, matching my melancholy mood. After accepting that I wouldn’t be going outside, I decided to get out some bread and spreads in the hope that I was about to discover the answer to all life’s problems in a tasty little snack. PB&J sandwiches aren’t a big thing in England, and in my mind, mixing sweet and savory is a recipe for disaster. However, as I tentatively bit down into a sandwich oozing with calories, and my American friends watched me with hopeful expressions, I realised these two spreads are indeed made for each other. Maybe not the answer to life, but definitely close to perfection.
Day Four — Harry Potter Room
On Monday, I had been in the middle of a minor mental breakdown about how much work I had to do when my friend suggested that I come with her to study in the “Harry Potter Room.” Although I had heard rumours of this majestic room in Alderman Library — officially called the “McGregor Room” — I had never stepped foot inside it and, as someone who is still waiting for their Hogwarts admission letter, I was curious to study here. The room looks exactly like something you’d find in Hogwarts. It’s filled with cosy armchairs, bookshelves with ladders and a focused atmosphere, which makes it a great environment for working — whether you’re a wizard or a muggle. Studying in a room filled with hints of magic is sure to make you feel like you can accomplish anything.
Day Five — Trick-or-Treating on the Lawn
As a lover of Halloween and all things Virginia, this University tradition was definitely on my list of things to do. Masses of children and families flocked to the Lawn dressed as princesses, pirates and penguins in their best costumes. There were even dogs dressed as tiny hot dogs. This event brought the community of Charlottesville together for a frightfully fun evening and definitely got me into the Halloween spirit.
Day Six — Villa Diner
I decided Wednesday that I should finally go and try out the Villa Diner, a classic American diner that has been recommended to me more than once. My friend and I were greeted by friendly staff, and we quickly decided that omelettes and hash browns were the way to go. American portion sizes still amaze me, so I was a little taken aback when a huge plate of food arrived in front of me. Nonetheless, I tucked in and demolished the delicious breakfast. I would definitely recommend this restaurant — crisp hash browns make for a delightful break from studying.
Day Seven — Aerial Dance Club
After eating an array of unhealthy PB&J sandwiches and hash browns this week, I decided I needed to get some exercise. When I first arrived at the University, I was keen to join the Aerial Dance Club. Unfortunately, though, my evening class meant I couldn’t join. However, this week, I decided I needed to live out my dreams and try it at least once. Aerial works on strength and flexibility, and this week, we practiced on lyras — think “giant hoops.” I had so much fun I didn’t even realise I was exercising — although my arms definitely ache now.
If, like me, you sometimes feel like you go about your day on autopilot, break out of the routine and do something new. The University is always hosting fun events, and I would definitely recommend exploring more of Charlottesville. It’s very common to forget about your surroundings and just stick to the norm, but from now on, I’m determined to try something new every week to make the most of my time here. Why don’t you try the seven-day challenge yourself?
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