As I look back on the three and a half weeks I spent in Italy, I knew partaking in a study abroad was a great decision and I would make it again if given the opportunity. Academically, it was amazing to see how the information we learned in class regarding grape and wine production were directly applied through the visits to different vineyards and wineries. Personally, it was an eye-opening experience. I came into this study abroad not truly knowing any of my classmates. Although I was initially scared it would have a negative impact on my experience, it was not the case. My classmates and the students of other programs in Cortona were extremely nice and were welcoming to myself and others. This made for a very fun and enjoyable experience. Along with my classmates, the locals in Cortona were also very nice and helpful in helping us navigate through different things such as buying groceries or ordering food with my limited Italian. On many occasions, they willingly taught me a few words and sayings in Italian when we were in contact. In a way, they let us into their home with open arms which made the study abroad experience even more enjoyable.
While in Italy, I made sure to immerse myself in the culture through things like trying different foods and visiting different churches and monuments. For example, on my last evening in Cortona, I had the opportunity to try Rabbit Ragu. Never in my 20 years of life have I ever saw Rabbit Ragu on a menu so I knew I had to have it as my send-off dinner. It was an incredible meal that I hope to have again in the future. I tried by best to experience new things during my trip that I believe has changed me as a person and my likes and dislikes in some way
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Italy was a fun and amazing new experience for me and a great start to a summer of new experiences. After a short time at home, I am going on to New York City for an internship. Since I have never been to New York City either, I hope the experience is just as good, if not better than my time in Italy. Ciao Italia!
