Dear New York - xx, London

Dear London,

Welcome to my new blog created for a new adventure overseas!

As many of you know, I have made the decision to become a student again. On September 12, I will be heading off to begin a Master's program in Creative Writing and Publishing at the same university I attended as a study abroad student - Kingston University, London. It was the home-base of one of my most fulfilling life experiences. While as a study abroad student, I learned more about myself and being a citizen of the world than possible while staying in my comfortable state of existence in Cooperstown, New York. I believe with my return to the United States, it was clear to many people around me that I would work my way back to London – perhaps, even before I knew myself.

With regards to Kingston, I cannot say for certain how I discovered this institution, but many can attest to the fact I had discovered it in my sophomore year of undergraduate work. It developed into a goal of creating my future of working with books in publishing, and the written word in writing. After a semester at Kingston in my senior year of college, I had resigned myself to this path. Becoming a student again, for myself, is a very exciting and nerve-wracking decision. I know myself best as a student, and with that I know both my strengths and weaknesses. Right now, I am in a healthy state of mind about my current goals. The choice to do this program overseas is crucial. To be a writer and to work with books takes a certain level of empathy, experience and worldliness - being comfortable, without incident, does not make great literature. From the small bite I had before, I know that London is where I need to be in order to develop myself on at least those three strengths.

But do not think I am this weird statue of assured confidence – I am nervous as hell.

It has just become a fact to me, that in order to begin a successful path, this is the first step. Receiving a Master's in Creative Writing and Publishing, is the first step. The power of education is a worthwhile investment, especially when experienced by one who refuses to let it go to waste - which, is someone like myself. Right now, I do not know the answers, by next year at this time I hope to have a different response to the questions of – who, what, when, where, why and how. My habits of being stubborn, ambitious and determined have been the fuel for these goals up to this point – as much as they have caused conflict. I have gained much knowledge in the last several years.

When you do not believe in regret, every decision is worth its experience.

This blog is going to be a public record of my steps as I work on my goals – starting with being an international student in London. This time at Kingston, I will be at the university for a full year. The approximate time period of my studies will be from September 12, 2011 till June 28, 2012. I will be making worldwide connections and digesting worldwide information during this time. It will give me a chance to grow back into my independence. However, it will also be the longest extended period that I will be away from home – without the certainty that I will be home for Christmas.

As I continue to write on this blog about my time, I will be thinking of my family and friends at home. Each post will be a letter to you who chooses to read. I also hope that as you read my posts, you will comment – I will love to hear from all of you. Of course there is always the opportunity to Skype me or send me an email – kberg032@gmail.com – whichever option is more flexible to your needs.

Please stay in touch!

xx, Kristin

PS: This post will always remain here - Purpose of Blog.