While Abroad
What are your first impressions?
When I first arrived in Italy, my luggage was not there, I was a day late and the rest of my group was not there, so I had to figure out where to talk to baggage claim about my luggage and find a taxi. Needless, to say I was terrified. On the taxi ride to the hotel, I was honestly shocked. There was so much graffiti everywhere and I just wasn’t expecting it. My first impressions were not good and I cried a lot but the good thing about starting at rock bottom is you can only go up. The first picture I took abroad was the line for the taxis (it was really long).
Favorite thing about Italy?
My favorite thing about each city in Italy was the food and the walkability. I loved being able to walk to dinner each night and the food was amazing there. I have not been able to go back to Olive Garden since. I wish that I could fly back if only to eat dinner.
How were the academics?
On my faculty-led trip the classes were mostly on our own, which I did not expect. I thought we would have a class each day or a time to sit with the professors and learn, but it was more online work and work by yourself. We would go to the sites and learn a brief history and then explore on our own and be free for the day.
How are you preparing to return home?
Before returning home, I had to make sure I bought all the souvenirs I needed and the keepsakes, which led to me needing to buy another bag. I was excited to get home and see my family and dog but I knew I was going to miss it. I honestly just wished they could fly to me and we could all stay longer. My feelings were so very different from when I arrived and I wanted to stay.
