Looking back on my experience studying abroad I see how my identity as an American definitely impacted my expectations. It’s actually pretty sad how little I knew about other cultures and that most of my assumptions were based on stereotypes. I think my nationality has never really seemed to be a main part of my identity and, I guess being surrounded by other Americans, it’s hard to see it when I’m home. In Italy, I had to recognize that part of my identity is being American and that there are a set of beliefs and values that, as an American, I had. Some of those values are great like freedom, equality, independence, justice. But some expectations that I associate with being an American weren’t helpful in Italy. One of these expectations was quick service and efficiency – those are two qualities that aren’t as valued by Italians. They prefer a more relaxed way of life. I actually found this new way of life much more preferable, but when my parents visited, I saw them grapple with the same issue.
Another part of my identity, that I see as a much more major role, is being a woman. I, along with all the other girls in my program were warned that Italians have a different view towards women and certain kinds of harassment were considered normal, like catcalling. Naturally, I prepared for the worst when going to Italy. Every time I talked about my trip, pre-departure, family and friends would bring up the Taken movies and how dangerous it is for women abroad. Reflecting on my experiences, I have come to an entirely different understanding of how women are treated in Italy. Sure, I was catcalled but I never experienced genuine fear while abroad. I was afforded far more freedom and safety in Rome than I have ever felt in the US. It actually was something I talked about with my roommates before we left Rome. We all talked about how we had all walked confidently alone, explored new areas of a city we didn’t know, we had stayed at bars and clubs til closing, and actually went on a few dates with Italians and other study abroad students. We all agreed that we would have never done any of these things back in the US because we, all six of us, though that dating and walking around in the US was “too dangerous”. I found that to be an interesting reflection and since being back I think that part of our fear is the over protective culture we have in the US, where young girls are naturally suspicious of men’s intentions because we have been taught that they could be a danger to us. I believe studying abroad helped me feel more agency and authority over my life and that’s an invaluable lesson.