Happy Thanksgiving!!!! Normally, we don’t celebrate Thanksgiving, but since I’m in the States this year, I’m doing as the Romans (Americans) do. There won’t be turkey, but our good family friend is treating us to a very special meal (stay tuned for the review!!)

BUT….. there’s something more important than all the food: What I’m thankful for! In previous years, I’ve done my top 5; this year, 5 just isn’t enough- How about 10? Let’s get going!

1. CMU- CMU is the responsible for a good portion of the other items on the list, so I’ll start with the big one. I’ve written a bit about my college application experience (here and here); however, I’ve never gotten the chance to express how grateful I am to the admissions committee for inviting me in. CMU was probably one of the last places I imagined myself at, but now that I’m here, I can’t imagine myself anywhere else. Everything from the size to the atmosphere and academics was exactly what I was looking for. Oh, it’s not just a computer school 😉
2. My Job(s)- Two of my biggest goals in university were to get a job and delve into research. CMU gave me the opportunity to do both at the same time as a lab assistant to TWO professors- Professor Downs and Professor Lowenstein (yes, George Lowenstein). I’m also invited to department lab meetings and seminars. Basically, I’m getting paid to learn and network with the top professors in the field- now that’s something to be thankful for. How lucky am I to be in an environment where top professors not only agree to work with undergraduates, but actively seek them out!
3. School- Hold you’re breath- this is a LONG one. To start, my professors are AMAZING. Sure, the courses are introductory, but my professors make even the most basic content fascinating. I also struck gold in terms of my schedule. With only 2-3 classes a day, none of them longer than 80min, everyday feels like a weekend! As for workload, I’m able to do very well in school and still have time for work, blog and plenty of fun- enough said. This will probably change soon, but I’m enjoying it while it lasts 🙂
4. Little Moochi- CMU, as a hub of innovation, has a lively community of entrepreneurs. Among them is Little Moochi (read more here). I joined the team in back in September and haven’t looked back. The team has been more than welcoming and I’m so thankful they accepted me. I look forward to the semester (and hopefully years) ahead. Don’t forget to check out their blog for exciting updates (click here)!
5. Friends/the Community- I’ll admit, I’m not the most social person. I’ve never cared for a “close community”, but that’s changed this semester. Everyone from dorm mates to dining staff have made me feel more than welcome. Special shoutout to the Scobell boys. They’ve done so much for me- including always smiling, letting me use their kitchen on a regular basis and even running to get me chopsticks just because I asked! Oh, and how can I forget my friend who’s been keeping me company on my Pittsburgh adventures!
6. Life Experience- I’ve been lucky  sheltered kid for the past 18 years, but eventually, that was going to have to change. I’m more than thankful to be able to transition in such a safe environment. This semester, I’ve gotten to experience making doctor’s appointments, budgeting, doing laundry and even dealing with banks and online merchants! Sure, there’ve been struggles, but it’s actually been quite, I daresay, fun navigating the challenges.
7.  Pittsburgh- There are three things I look for in a city 1) Modern 2) Convenient 3) FOOD Guess what, Pittsburgh ticks all the boxes.To make things better, Pittsburgh is a veritable cultural center and CMU students get free passes- Check out my Pittsburgh adventures! What about the weather? Well, it’s been absolutely AMAZING. Sure, it rains, but the bright days far outweigh the dull ones
8. Freedom- This is the first time away from my parents, and while I definitely miss them, I’m relishing in my new freedom. I get to set my own schedule, plan my own meals and choose what I want to do. Of course, with great freedom comes great responsibility. I’m still learning what that entails, but whatever it is, I’m willing to accept if it means getting to enjoy the perks of my own life
9. Family- At the base of the pyramid are the things so fundamental they barely need to be mentioned. Family definitely falls into the category. My parents have done more than their fair part in taking care of me and continue to go the extra 100 miles even though they’re no longer legally obligated. Now that’s something to be thankful for!
10. The Basics- I’ve lived a pretty struggle free life and I cannot be more thankful for that. Enough said

These are only 10 of the millions of thing I should be thankful for. I hope everyone enjoyed the post and more importantly- HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!!

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