What a journey it’s been!
It’s been about seven months since I landed here in Tirana. Before coming I remember crying non-stop in the airport. I felt a mix of fear and excitement as I prepared for the journey. Deep down, I knew it was something I needed to do. It was a chance to reconnect with my culture and family. I had no idea what awaited me: the people I would meet, the impact I might have on my students, the beautiful places I would experience or the meaningful memories I would create, especially when my parents came to visit!
I feel extremely grateful for the opportunity to immerse myself in the culture of a community I had always longed to be a part of. The culture is rich, and the hospitality is truly unmatched. Many people in the Balkans place a strong value on human connection, something I have come to deeply appreciate. During my time here, I have gained more confidence in speaking with others, listening to their stories, asking questions and spending more time just sitting and chatting with people. Even after a long day of work, Albanians always find time to go out and sit, chatting for hours with friends and family. This sense of connection is something I hope to carry with me and continue to embrace when I return to America.
