When my best friend Chloe and I began to plan our summer plans for this year, we prepared a list of places we hoped to live. As part of the process, a list of four states was compiled, including California, Colorado, Florida, and Hawaii.
There was no doubt in our minds that a summer in Hawaii would be a truly memorable experience, but it was an ambitious goal. When we discussed the idea with our parents, they thought it was a little unrealistic, which prompted us to look even harder for a place to stay. It was only a matter of time before June arrived, and before I knew it, I was packing my bags for the tiny island of Oahu in Hawaii.
It was by chance that we found an Airbnb on the North Shore in a small town named Pupukea. The moment I realized my dream was about to come true, my nerves started to kick in, and my decision was brought into question. I had nothing more than a place to live, a car, and my best friend.
Over the course of the first two weeks, I applied to every job I could find. It was during the second week of the application process that I lost confidence. I applied for everything from working at the Dole Pineapple Plantation to leading zip-line tours. As it turned out, it was a happy coincidence that I ended up nannying for Miko, the two year old daughter of my sweet neighbor, as well as cleaning vacation rental properties for my friend who I met on the way.
I awoke to the sounds of roosters outside my window crooning when the sun rose, announcing the start of most days. We spent our days hiking, watching sunsets, surfing, doing yoga, snorkeling, running, and going to the farmers' market.
While I was in Hawaii, I was able to cross off a few bucket list items during my visit: shark diving, skydiving, and visiting Pearl Harbour.
Upon packing my bags to return home in August, I cried all the way to the airport. As a result of living on my own and making everything work, I gained much more self-confidence than I ever could have imagined.
Someday, I hope to live on Oahu again, and I am so grateful to everyone who helped me to make this dream a reality! My memories of this time will last a lifetime.
I hope my words have inspired you to push yourself out of your comfort zone and make the most of your youth by traveling, especially now. Don't hesitate! You won't regret it!
Aloha!
Caroline Mathisen
How much fun! Great post!