An aspect of my host culture where I was confused and had to adapt was the traditional values and ancient technology throughout the city of Rome. Unlike America Italy and Europe in general can be more behind in certain areas of technology. When moving into my apartment in Rome it was confusing and difficult to…
Category: Italy: ISA Rome
Blog Post #1
As an American, I acknowledge that my culture may be different from other cultures. It is important to recognize the differences of my culture and other cultures and how I can respect those differences. Identifying my own culture before traveling abroad will allow me to reflect on my own attitudes and behaviors. In the United…
Cultural confrontations
Now that it has been 2 months since going abroad, I am able to come to terms with my new lifestyle and temporary home. The culture shock and ecstatic enthusiasm has drifted, and I understand now more than ever what they mean by facing cultural frustrations. I miss the simple things back in America like…
Cultural Confrontation in Italy Edition
Being in a foreign country, miles from home is not always easy nor do we always highlight the whole story of what looks like glorious travels. I have been trying to make the most of my time abroad which has included traveling to a new area or country outside of Rome every weekend. With this,…
Cultural Confrontation in Italy
It has officially been over 8 weeks since I arrived for my study abroad in Italy. One thing that I for sure have noticed is how quick time flies (not just for me, but all those studying abroad with me as well) and how you don’t notice until you look back and remember that it…
Blog Post #1
When I think of American culture, I mainly think of the American dream. Being abroad, it was surprising to me to see how others view America essentially as a pot of gold. They view it as the land of opportunities. This is mainly because of the vast amount of money to go around the country….
Looking within the U.S to Better Understand Rome
An aspect of US culture is overconsumption. In many different aspects the United States has a tendency to over serve or consume. When it comes to meals our portions are large and it is common to find buffets, all you can eat and deals on maximizing the amount of food you get. This is also…
Preparing to Study Abroad in Rome!
Preparing for departure to live in a never-visited and different country has produced mixed emotions– excitement and curiosity mainly. Will I understand the language? Will it be too hot? Will I like it? How are the people? Is the food as good as they say?.. these are all questions that have overwhelmed me moments before…
Been Home for a Month
I’ve been home in St. Louis for a month and I’m bored. I miss Rome and everything it had to offer. I even miss the grueling 20 minute walk/hike up to school. I would honestly take it over just staying in bed and zooming into my classes. This has definitely been an interesting semester, I…
Rome, I miss you!
I would have never imagined that my study abroad experience would end the way it did. For a while we would hear about the virus yet we all felt so disconnected from it, concerned yet unbothered. It was in China we thought, so there really is not much to be worried about. Boy were we…