Ciao from Rome!
I have been studying in Rome now for about a month and a half and it has been an interesting and awesome experience! I am enjoying getting to know the culture and the language, as well as embracing my identity as a foreigner and learning about who I am in a new place. Italy has given me the opportunity to jump out of my comfort zone by doing big things, like having a conversation in Italian (a very short conversation, but a conversation nonetheless), but also by doing small things, like figuring out the public transportation system.
Rome is a much different place than my home in Clearwater, Florida. Rome is busy, loud, and always on the go. I have gathered that Italians are always have something to do, someone to see, and somewhere to be. I have definitely been completely exhausted some days, but other days it is really fun to do as the Italians do and run around all day doing things and spending time with friends. When I travelled to Florence with one of my classes, I was able to experience a bit of a different pace in a smaller city. Still, Italians have a fast pace that it has been challenging and fun to try and match.
I am enjoying my classes very much. A big part of the curriculum at Trinity College in Rome is the walking tours that the classes have. On Mondays, all of my classes have an in-class lecture. After Monday I have a different walking tour every day, and each week we are going somewhere different. This has been a really great way for me to see the city and to see artwork I have wanted to see in person since I started studying Art History. Something else that I love about the Trinity College in Rome is the opportunity to have an internship. I took advantage of this opportunity and am now working with Chef Andrea at his establishment: Cooking Classes in Rome. This experience has allowed me to meet new people and experience a different side of Rome—teaching tourists how to make Roman food! I have learned a lot about food and the Roman traditions surrounding food. I am really enjoying the experiences I have with Chef Andrea through this internship!
Rome has become a new home to me. It is finally becoming really familiar and a place that brings a smile to my face. My mom is going to visit me in a couple of weeks and I am excited to show her what I have learned about the city and be her personal tour guide. I am so grateful for all the experiences I have had this past month and I am excited to continue stepping out of my comfort zone and experience new things. At the end of October, I am heading to Ravenna by myself. It will be the first time travelling by myself and I am excited to grow in myself and gain confidence and independence.
Until then— Arrivederci!