My identity is the lens that I look at the world through. It’s how I experience the world. I have never been out of the country, I’m from a small town where everyone new everybody, and this will be the longest time I’m away from my family. I’m definitely prepare for a bit of culture shock and homesickness. However, I refuse to stay in my comfort zone. I’m not willing to sacrifice the amazing opportunities my education has gifted me. I have always been a “play it safe” person – not really a risk taker. I think I surprised a lot of my family and friends when I told them that I was studying abroad. I haven’t jumped head first into this though, I’m still an aggressive planner and a bit of a control freak. I think in some ways that has always been a strength of mine. I plan for what’s coming and have a backup plan for when something goes wrong. I have always had a steady routine and I get a certain level of satisfaction from that. In Rome, I think this side of myself will allow me to stay focused on school in a new environment but also help me plan to do and see as much as possible before coming back home. However, I also think I’ll feel disoriented the first few weeks and I probably won’t acclimate to the Italian culture immediately – especially their lax view on time. But, from this experience I just want to learn as much as possible about where I’m living and about the person who I can be. I’m excited to meet people whose world view is completely different than mine. I’m a firm believer that people should challenge themselves more and open themselves up to new experiences that may challenge their world view. I think I’ll meet people who’s identify strongly with their culture and tradition. I think that strongly identifying with culture, traditions and your heritage is a source of comfort for many people. I think it may give people confidence in what they do and how they do it. I’m a little uncertain about being an outsider in this culture, I hope that I will meet people who will help me and be tolerate of my missteps as I navigate a new world. I fear that I could be excluded from the experiences Italy has to offer. However, I know I will encounter some Italians who are willing to help immerse myself in the culture and I will encounter some Italians who choose to exclude me from their culture. I think it’s probably more important to not be discouraged by a bad interaction and be persistent when trying to interact with a new culture.
