I can’t believe this is really happening! Thanks to the Education Abroad scholarship from the University of Alabama, I’m about to embark on a journey that feels like a homecoming of sorts, even though I’ve never actually been there before. This isn’t just a trip—it’s a leap into the next chapter of my life and career.
Here’s the deal: I started my Hospitality career at Domenica in New Orleans, where I worked front of house and got a taste of what real Italian cooking is all about. The chef who opened Domenica had trained in Parma, and the stories and flavors he brought back always fascinated me. Now, I get to walk those same streets, taste the local cuisine straight from the source, and see for myself what inspired him. It’s like tracing the roots of my culinary family tree back to where it all started.
Getting ready for this trip was a mix of the usual stuff and diving deep into what I wanted to get out of it. I sorted out my passport, figured out my flights, and did all that grown-up travel prep. But the real prep was all about getting into the Italian mindset—picking up a bit of the language, studying up on regional dishes, and setting myself up to soak in as much as I can, not just as a tourist, but as a cook and food lover.
Honestly? I’m buzzing with excitement but also a bit nervous. Italy is a dream destination for anyone who loves food, but stepping into the unknown always gets the butterflies going. I’m thinking about all the places I’ll see, the people I’ll meet, and, of course, the incredible food I’ll get to try. But yeah, it’s a big step, and I’m feeling all the feels.
I’m heading there with a mission: to dive deep into Italian culinary techniques and bring back a suitcase full of inspiration and knowledge. I want to connect with local chefs, learn from them, and share meals that tell their stories. This trip is about growing as a chef, but also about growing as a person—getting out there, getting my hands dirty, and getting a taste of Italy that goes beyond the usual tourist experience.
I’ll be sharing all the gritty and tasty details right here on this blog. So, stay tuned for stories, photos, and maybe even recipes. Here’s to making the most out of studying abroad and bringing a piece of Italy back home in my heart and my spice rack.
