Vagabonding: My Post-Grad Plans

Hello W&M World!

I shudder when the thought comes to mind, but I am now considered a graduate of the College of William & Mary, something that brings me great pride and great fear at the same time. Now we’re on to the next proverbial chapter of my life, and I think it’s going to be pretty exciting.

I can only see so far into the future, but I’m sure that the next sub-chapter revolves around vagabonding. For those unfamiliar with this term, it is the art of long-term travel, illustrated wonderfully in the book of the same name by Rolf Potts. After reading the book, I was hooked on the concept. It outlines how a few months of work can pay for several months of budget travel, depending on how much you’re willing to “rough” it, so I’ve been waiting tables all summer for the chance to turn those dollars into an unforgettable experience.

So in October (after attending William & Mary Homecoming 2011, of course) I leave for Central America, traveling from Guatemala through Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica to finally reach Panama. I’ll hike volcanoes, ride on crowded buses filled with locals, eat exotic foods, scuba dive in the Caribbean, meet up with friends and family, and generally immerse myself in the newness of every passing minute. Needless to say, I’m pumped, prepared, and positive.

This summer has made me look forward to the rest of life– the life after William & Mary– which I honestly didn’t even believe existed until very recently. And even though waiting tables is pretty miserable, I know that it’s going to be the foundation for some stellar memories.

-Christian

PS.  A very belated congratulations to the Class of 2011 and my warmest of welcomes goes out to the incoming class of 2015!! Hark upon the gale!