Trying to sum up my experience abroad in one short letter is an almost impossible task, but I ask that you bear with me as I attempt to convey how much studying abroad has meant to me and how much it has changed my life. I think it is a common belief amongst study abroad students that it is one of the single best experiences of their college career. Now that I am a part of this group, I can agree with that statement. Before I left for Italy I had been out of the country for a grand total of 1 week, so I was beyond nervous to be out of the country for almost 4 months! I didn’t know if I would be able to survive the trip! My Italian was shaky at best, and I’m a generally nervous person, so how would I fare on my own in this new country?
The night before I left home, I was up all night worrying about everything I could think of, and wondering what in the world I was doing by going on this trip. Leaving my parents in the Atlanta airport was one of the scariest moments of my life, but once I left their side, I knew there was no turning back. I wish I could go back to that girl in the airport and say, its ok! Just go! Get on the plane! You’re going to learn more about yourself than you will ever realize. After navigating 3 airports by myself, I arrived safely in Italy and I was ready to meet my roommates and see the town! Its so funny for me to look back on my first day in Italy and to see how much changed over my months of being there. I always explain my time abroad as the best of both worlds. I got to be a tourist and do fun things and go sight seeing, but at the same time I was able to act like a local sometimes too, and find spots off the beaten path to grab a meal or spend some time soaking in the Italian culture. These little quiet moments were the ones that were the most special to me. Watching how Italian people live their lives day to day has made me appreciate the little things I often take for granted. One thing Italians do very well is show the people in their lives how much they matter to them. It was always so amazing to watch two friends have a heated debate, and then before parting ways kiss on each cheek and hug one another. I also loved learning how to slow down a bit. Italians are rarely in a rush, except when they’re driving, and their culture has taught me how to take things slowly and really appreciate life experiences.
Not only was I able to experience Italian culture, but I was able to study Baking and Pastry under some very talented Italian chefs. It was an amazing program that is helping me achieve my goal of owning a bakery someday. My chefs gave me invaluable experience, and they were such great supporters of all of the students in my class. My classes themselves were also a great experience in culture because I was able to study with a girl from India, two girls from Dubai, a girl from Israel, a girl from Lithuania, a girl from Korea, and a girl from China. Never in my life have I been around so many cultures at once! These friendships are ones that will last a lifetime, and they would never be possible in any other setting.
I cannot stress enough how much this experience has taught and changed me for the better. I am more aware of other points of view, I am more comfortable with myself, I have a greater appreciation for things in my life, I have gained invaluable skills to further my career, and I have learned how to be flexible and understanding in stressful situations! Trying to navigate a foreign train system can be quite trying at times! If there is anyone doubting whether studying abroad is a worthwhile experience, I would say go! Experience it for yourself! Pick a place you’ve always dreamed of going, and don’t let anything stand in your way! I was very unsure that I would be able to afford this trip, and without the SAI scholarship, I don’t know if it would have been possible for me to study abroad. I am beyond thankful for the scholarship and the opportunity it afforded me.
— Laura – University of Georgia
