As the semester comes to a close, most of us will be returning to our respective homes. We won’t be able to see some of our best friends for five whole weeks and will inevitably be separated by thousands of miles. Others of us (like myself) are preparing to leave the Bowdoin Bubble for much longer…and are traveling even further. Many Juniors will be heading abroad to countries all over the world for an entire semester, making the five week break seem like a breeze. Although it might not be easy, we must accept the fact that we have to say goodbye to our closest friends. I must admit that, even though our generation is provided with ample ways to keep in touch, we often fall short when it comes to maintaining connections with the important people in our lives. I know they say that ‘distance makes the heart grow fonder’ but keeping in touch is a crucial element in the equation. Here are a few tips on how to stay close even when you’re worlds away:
1. Skype
Skype is the obvious front-runner when it comes to keeping in touch. Leave your Skype up on the background of your computer when you are home and maybe you’ll unexpectedly have the chance to re-connect with friends.
2. Write Letters
Sadly… Our generation has moved away from the art of letter writing. However, there’s nothing better than opening up your mailbox to something other than letters from the bank and spam from Wal-Mart. Handwritten letters are genuine and show you care.
3. Send a Care Package
Send your friends a batch of your Grandma’s Christmas cookies or a souvenir from the places you travel over break!
4. Snap Chat
If you haven’t yet heard of Snap Chat, it’s time to check it out. It’s an I-phone App that allows you to send photographs to friends that appear for five seconds, and then disappear into the cyber world for eternity. It’s a fun and funny way to say… Hi!
5. Write a Blog
Especially if you are going abroad, writing a blog and sharing short stories and photographs of your experiences can be incredibly interesting to friends and family who are curious about your trip. Plus, it’s a great way to document your time for yourself.
Great distances can make us feel isolated but, all it takes is pen, paper and a postage stamp, or a quick Skype chat to re-connect with our friends and loved ones. The people in our lives give us energy and livelihood, and there are no excuses for letting distance get in the way!