Ciao!
This past week in Italy has been full of wonder, laughter, and sunshine. Where to begin. Rome is everything I could have hoped for and so much more. Rich in history and full of splendor, I could not imagine studying abroad near anywhere else. Among the historic sights I visited this past week are the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Non-Catholic Cemetery, the Spanish Steps, the Vatican, and St. Peter’s Basilica. One thousand miles later, each and every moment was simply amazing.

View from the top of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City

I could try to describe each sight, but my words could never do them justice. One could hardly describe walking on the same roads as Caesar, standing where Peter was crucified, or climbing to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica to watch the sun set over Rome. It is equally difficult to describe the joy found in laughing while running through the streets of Rome, umbrella-less in the pouring down rain, to make the last train home — all the while making wonderful memories with new friends.

After climbing to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City

Needless to say, this past week has been a whirlwind of a “grand tour” of Rome, and I’ve loved every second of it. Am I exhausted? Yes. Am I dreaming? Maybe. But mostly I am just thankful. I am thankful to be living in this beautiful country, and I am thankful for my parents’ generosity in giving me this adventure. Rome is magical, its sights magnificent and thought provoking. It is most certainly a city that everyone should have a chance to experience firsthand.
Warmest Regards,
Kristin Parsons