Coming to Whistler represents a long list of firsts for me.

It’s the first time I’ve been to British Columbia, the first time I’ve ever left home and the first time I’ve ever lived in a hostel or had roommates. Add that to the fact that I have an Egyptian mother who does everything, and I’m basically learning how to look after myself. Also for the first time.

I’ve never written about myself either. I have no problem talking about myself and being the centre of attention, it’s hard to get some with two siblings and a cat, but writing about who I am is by far the weirdest first yet. When I was asked to write a piece to introduce myself, the first thought that came to mind is too profane for my mother’s eyes – she reads my stuff online. They don’t teach you how to write about yourself in journalism school. In fact, we encouraged to remove ourselves entirely from our articles.

So let’s give this a go.

I’ve been living in Ottawa for the past four years where I go to school. Prior to that I was living overseas and halfway through a degree from a prestigious university when I changed my mind and decided that I want to study journalism. My family — begrudgingly — packed up their bags and moved back to Canada where I spent my childhood.

Though I am very attached to my family, I’ve ironically chosen a career that will force me to move around and flex all these muscles I never knew I had. I’m a little bit sore right now, but it’s the kind that makes you want to go back for more.

Which brings us to Whistler where I’m completing a six-week field placement so I can graduate from Algonquin College. I’m not the outdoors type and I think exercise kills you. But I can appreciate an adventure and this is the place to go on one. I’m completely outside of my element not knowing anyone in town and dealing with the most trying living situation, but I’m loving it.

I will be sad to go.