Hi!
I am officially home! It was sad to leave Rome, but for now, I am happy to be back. I finally have all the things I missed back, and it feels so good. Although, I’m already missing Rome. I can’t win. Anyway, looking back at my first post as to where I was nervous to go abroad and having less clothing, I laughed. I didn’t realize how much stuff I would eventually buy and have to stuff into my suitcase as I was packing to go home. I was also able to experience Rome exactly how I wanted to, and more. As I mentioned in my other blog posts, I was able to travel a lot of Europe as well and immerse myself in other cultures. I was also able to manage my school time versus exploring and travelling very well, which was a fear I had.
Moreover, I know this is such a cliche, but I feel like a different person after this experience. I am more open, thoughtful, and respectful toward other people now. I grew up in somewhat of a bubble, so to have an experience like this, it really has changed me for the better. I feel like I was positively influenced by this experience as well. I think that people with different identities experience the world differently as well due to what and where they grew up to. For example, Italian’s see the day as slow, and more laid back because that is how they grew up. Aka, why the buses were never on time..
Going abroad is the best thing I have ever done, and I recommend it to anyone. I was fearful at first, almost regretting my decision, and here I am now, wishing I could go back! This is my last post, so I hope you all enjoyed keeping up with my adventures. I can’t wait to start my Senior year in the fall and tell everyone about my experiences in Rome, and I will always have a piece of Rome in my heart.
Ciao,
Laurel