Harvey attended the MTV VMAs in Los Angeles on Sunday, Sept. 27, where she spoke with PEOPLE about her life since leaving the show.
"Honestly, life has been super surreal," Harvey said. "You get thrown out and you have so many people knowing who you are and so many opportunities, but honestly it's been such a blessing."
Harvey watched the VMAs from the BACARDÍ suite and said the support she has received from her loved ones and fellow islanders has made the transition easier.
"I'm so grateful for every opportunity that I'm blessed with," she said.
The reality star also revealed that her relationships with the other islanders have continued beyond the show. Harvey said she remains in contact with her fellow contestants and now considers many of them family.
"I'm in touch with all my girls. I love everybody," she said. "I have made so many friends on the island. They're truly my family now. That's a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
The Love Island USA season 8 finale aired on July 12, with Harvey and Carl Schmidt finishing as the runners-up. During the Aug. 31 reunion, Harvey revealed that the pair were continuing their relationship despite the distance between them.
"We talk to each other every day," she said at the time, adding that they communicate through FaceTime and text messages.
Harvey previously reflected on her time in the villa in a July Instagram post, describing the experience as an "answered prayer." She acknowledged the challenges she faced while filming but said she would always treasure the friendships and romantic connection she formed.
She also expressed her appreciation for Schmidt, saying he made her time in the villa especially meaningful and that she was excited to see where their story would lead.
At the VMAs, Harvey reflected on what she learned from her time on the reality series. Her biggest takeaway, she said, was the importance of remaining positive and keeping her head up when faced with difficult situations.
"Everything happens for a reason and if you keep your head up, everything's going to work out the way it should," Harvey said.
As she adjusts to life outside the villa, Harvey appears focused on appreciating the new experiences and opportunities that have come her way since her Love Island USA journey ended.
