Touching down back in Alabama after weeks in Italy felt surreal. There’s something about coming home that makes you see it with new eyes, especially after living a completely different life halfway across the world.
Walking through the airport, everything felt familiar yet oddly distant. I found myself missing the cobbled streets of Ravenna, the bustling markets of Bologna, and yes, even Marcello’s ceaseless stories. Everything seemed quieter here, and I couldn’t help but crave the vibrant chaos of Italian life that had become my daily rhythm.
Italy changed me. It’s that simple. I’ve come back with more than just recipes and souvenirs. My whole approach to cooking has transformed—I’m slower now, more deliberate, and every ingredient has a story. I appreciate the craft more, and I’ve learned the true meaning of patience, whether it’s in waiting for dough to rise or for a slow-simmering sauce to reach perfection.
The biggest shock? The pace. Everything in Alabama seems to run at half-speed compared to Italy. At first, I was impatient, tapping my foot at coffee shops, puzzled by the quiet streets at noon. Then I remembered the laid-back afternoons in small-town trattorias, and slowly, I found a balance.
For those gearing up for their own study abroad journey, here’s my advice:
- Dive in completely. Don’t just be a tourist; be a local. Shop where they shop, eat where they eat.
- Pack light but bring a big appetite—for food, for knowledge, for adventure.
- Keep a journal. Write down everything. Those little moments can be just as transformative as the big ones.
- Learn the language, at least the basics. It opens doors and hearts.
My suitcase might be unpacked, but the journey’s far from over. Italy taught me lessons that I’m still unpacking—about food, life, and myself. I can’t wait to bring a little bit of Italy into my kitchen here at home, sharing the flavors and stories with friends and family. So here’s to the next adventure, wherever it leads!
