Beginnings of Rome!

Ciao! As I am writing this it is the end of our first full week here in Rome! Adjusting to life in a new country comes with a lot of differences, some being struggles and some being highlights, but I am starting to get a small idea of what life might be like here in this beautiful city.

Arriving at the airport after our never-ending travel day brought excitement, anticipation, and much exhaustion. Everything felt pretty new and overwhelming but after a couple days of adjustment and exploration, I can not wait to get to know this city and people I am

surrounded with more!

Arriving at the airport!

The first couple of days were a blur of orientation, figuring out where everything is, and trying to stay awake long enough to adjust to the time difference. We explored nearby streets and stores, found little cafés, ate some of the best food I've had, and started learning how to get around.

With my knowledge of the Italian language pretty much consisting of ciao, the language barrier is something I am still working on. Thankfully, our group has made the adjustment a lot easier! From orientation, classes starting, and our group dinners, they have been great way to settle in and share experiences. Classes have also started, and it still feels strange sitting in a classroom when we’re in Rome, but it’s exciting knowing we’ll actually get to see and experience some what we’re learning about outside of classes.

Coming into this program I am hoping to gain more independence, explore as much of Rome and what surrounds it as I can, and take advantage of this opportunity to travel, see new things, and gain a bigger perspective. After just one week, I already feel so grateful to be here. Rome is busy, beautiful, and full of history everywhere. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the semester has in store and am so thankful for this opportunity!

Ciao,

Makayla!