Ever since freshman year I’ve wanted to go on the Viticulture and Enology study abroad. For one thing, it’s always been on my bucket list to go to Italy. The beautiful topography and rich history has always captivated me. Then, during Bio 1107, I learned about alcohol fermentation and the science behind it blew my mind. I remember I called my parents after that lecture and told them I wanted to own a vineyard. They laughed and blew off my idea, but I never gave up the dream. Now here I am, three years later, about to board a plane for the experience of a life time, all thanks to the College of Ag! I can’t think of a better place to learn about wine than in its home land, Italy! I love the horticulture classes at UGA, but I believe the best learning is done through experience. I am no stranger to traveling; I’ve been abroad to poorer countries on mission trips; however, I’ve never been to a first world country to live in a dorm and take classes with fellow students at UGA, so I am so excited for this new experience. Also, I’ve never been away for a whole month, which makes me nervous, but I think I will start to feel right at home soon. Another fear I have is the language barrier. I’ve been able to communicate with people in every country I’ve visited, but I don’t know a lick of Italian. I’m hoping to do a little studying on this plane flight and learn from the amazing staff through out the semester. I’m also a tad bit nervous because there’s no dryer machine. I’m just praying that I can reuse and not run put of clothes because I can barely do laundry with a full functioning dryer. Overall, I can not wait to see what all this May-mester has in store.

Ciao,

Abby Darling