For three months at the beginning of this year, I took advantage of the amazing opportunity to live and study in Castiglion Fiorentino, Italy with a Texas A&M study abroad pilot program. After stressful preparation and heart-wrenching goodbyes to my family and boyfriend at the airport in Houston, I put on a brave face, stepped on a plane, and began my adventure.
I think I'll always remember the sick, sour feeling that sloshed in my stomach when I first spoke to my loved ones on a webcam from halfway across the world. I'll always remember the electric feeling of "being alive" that bubbled up in me when I first walked the streets of Florence and took in its essence. I'll always remember the new sense of self I gained from moving from country to country without guidance during my spring break travels.
During my time in Italy, I took eighteen hours of classes, helped teach English two hours a week in a local middle school, participated in community events, and went on weekly guided trips to important Italian cities. In addition, I got a delicious two weeks for spring break - I used that time to travel to Ireland, England, and Spain.
Some of my study abroad highlights:
1. Exploring some castle ruins on a rocky outcrop and then nestling down in the world's softest grass and watching the clouds in Wicklow County, Ireland
2. Feeding the pigeons in St. Mark's Square in Venice, Italy
3. Climbing to the top of a famous church and looking out over the city in Florence, Italy
4. Seeing Les Miserables in London, England
5. Going to the Velvet Underground, a popular pub in Castiglion Fiorentino, Italy, where musicians and bands played weekly
6. Visiting the Guggenheim in Bilbao, Spain
Before I left for Italy, people kept telling me, "This may be your one chance to live in Europe - make the most of it!" As much as I tired of hearing the advice - they were right. My time in Italy was about enjoying what was challenging and beautiful in each new day while I had the chance. It's true here too - we should revel in our days while we have them!
...your thoughts, and photo are so beautiful. Im so glad you were able to experience all you could squeeze in!
Posted by: Deidra | July 19, 2008 at 01:39 AM