It took one month last fall to realize that I wanted to work abroad; another one to realize where. By Christmas, I applied for a Fulbright grant that could bring me to Christchurch, New Zealand to document the aftermath of the 2011 Canterbury Earthquakes. However, by May, when the grant fell through, I conducted a short job search that ultimately yielded a job offer in Wellington, New Zealand. After signing the (generous) offer; filling out heaps of paperwork to apply for a visa application; packing and planning; saying goodbye to San Francisco and my friends; moving to back to LA to be with my family; and waiting in anxiety for it to come through--during which my visa application was sent to an unusual second round to investigate my extensive medical certificate per New Zealand Immigration standard--I have finally received my New Zealand work visa.
I fly out from LAX tomorrow night. My first day at work in the Wellington CBD is Monday! I'll spend the next 30 months (minimum) exploring the country's culture and landscape via this new job as a structural engineer. Each day will contain some new vista and experience. And so...I'm going on an adventure!!
I'm ready to go on the adventure with you! I'll be reading!
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