How did you decide which country/program to study abroad in?
I decided on the Bologna program through the Italian department because Italian was the main language I was learning. The Bologna program is the most immersive program the department has to offer, so that's why I chose it.
What were you excited about and/or nervous about before your program?
I was quite nervous as I had never left the US before, but upon arrival, most of my nerves were gone. I was also nervous about meeting the other students, but everybody was in the same boat, so most of my nerves there went away too.
What was your favorite place that you traveled to or an activity you did while abroad?
My favorite places that I traveled to were either the hiking trip that me and two friends did in Triglavski National Park, Slovenia. The other is getting a true Italian tour from my roommate of Venice, the city where he was born.
How do you think the intersections of your identities and values impacted your study abroad experience? Do you have any tips to share with future study abroad students?
I believe that I am a very closed off person who likes to stay in the comfort zone, which this was very out of. However, it's good to challenge your comfort zone, within limitations. This was a great experience for me to challenge it, and really figure out who I am.
Could you articulate one personal/professional/academic goal you achieved while abroad?
I definitely achieved one goal while abroad, which was to take solo adventures, and learn to be happy doing things by myself. I went on multiple trips by myself to places, and learned to become more comfortable with it.
What advice would you like to give to future study abroad students?
I would say to try and take one solo trip, where you can't rely on someone else to speak the language or figure everything out for you. Try to challenge yourself and take one weekend to travel alone.
