In the first few days that I’ve been in Ariccia, I felt like I’ve already undergone a significant amount of growth. Though six days is only a small fragment of the time I will spend here in Italy, I feel as though I’ve learned three important lessons, and I expect to learn many more within the weeks to come.
Firstly, I’ve learned how important it is to push yourself to experience new places and cultures. I signed up for this Summer 2017 study abroad session during the first semester of my freshman year. Three years later, it is almost unbelievable that I am really living in Ariccia. As the days to my international departure came near, I started panicking about the trip, and even questioning if I was making the right decision to abandon my normal life to live in Italy for three months. It wasn’t until the fourth day while travelling to Italian cities and sight-seeing that I began to realize there is no reason to fear change when it is accompanied with growth. This study abroad program not only brought a new appreciation for the Italian culture, but it also brought a newfound confidence to travel, communicate, and navigate on my own in foreign countries.
Secondly, I’ve learned the importance of growing friendships and making connections with the people around you. The only people that could comprehend the insecurities and worries as well as excitements and expectations that I felt were the twenty girls that are living in the palace with me. Not only are we all on the same adventure, but we are all most likely also experiencing some of the same feelings. I had known several of these girls previously through my major, and I can honestly say that I’ve grown closer in my friendship with them more in the past week than I have in the past three years. These girls will become my best friends and support systems in the next three months living here, and I couldn’t be more excited to watch these friendships blossom.
Lastly, I’ve learned to cherish and appreciate everything that my parents have done for me including this semester abroad. My parents have financially and emotionally committed to supporting me during my semester abroad. It is a rewarding gift to know that my parents have my best interest at heart and that they want me to experience this life-changing program.  I realize how grateful I am to have the opportunity to study a new culture in a foreign country for three months and travel to new countries. I cannot wait to see what the next 11 weeks has in store for me. Ciao!
Meredith Hardin

The first picture I took of Ariccia.