Verona, Italy: Fall 2023
During my amazing fall semester in Verona, I immersed myself in Italian culture, visited 13 new European countries, and made dozens of new friends from all over the world.
Global Friendships
The most fun part of studying abroad was meeting a new community of outgoing and adventurous friends. I did not know anybody going into my study abroad semester and pushed myself outside my comfort zone to make friends with people from so many different universities and countries within my study abroad community. I also enjoyed serendipitous conversations with backpackers I encountered during my weekend trips at hostels, beaches, and museums.
Italian Immersion
One of the most meaningful parts of my study abroad experience was taking introductory Italian lessons with my class. We practiced speaking, listening, reading, and writing. By the end of the semester, I felt confident with most basic communications and could navigate Verona in relative ease. Locals were very helpful in helping me practice and avoid common mistakes.
Personal Growth
Spending so much time in a new environment and travelling most weekends developed my character in a way I never thought possible. Studying abroad is not for the faint of heart- it takes grit, perseverence, and a willingness to learn. During my first few weeks in Verona, I discovered that making mistakes and embarrassing myself was the best way to learn. I leaned into the discomfort, whether that meant running through an airport or struggling through a conversation in broken Italian, and I am a better person because of it.
Memories to Last
As someone who grew up doing very little travel, I took full advantage of study abroad and visited every bucket list site I could think of. My most memorable trips included a solo trip to Rome, Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast, and a trip with close friends to Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. I know I will cherish the memories I made during this special time for the rest of my life.
My semester in Verona was extraordinary and life-changing.