I can’t believe we have already been here for one month. If you had told me a few years ago that I would be living in a different country for three months, and wouldn’t know anyone, I would not have believed you. The thought was uncomfortable and so out of my comfort zone that I couldn’t, and did not want to, imagine it. What I didn’t know though was how much I was going to love and appreciate it. In just five short weeks I’ve not only met so many of the most amazing people, but have gotten to see places I have always dreamed of. We not only get to see these places, but we truly get to immerse ourselves in the culture and live life the way that the Italians do here everyday. Some of my favorite moments have been the smaller ones like walking to the grocery store, watching the scenery out the train window, and admiring the beautiful sunsets in Ariccia from the bridge. These are the things that in six months when I am home I will still remember.

 I still don’t think it has hit me that I am living in Italy right now and am almost halfway done. We have done so many things that I will remember forever. This past weekend my friends and I got to go to Sestrieres where I learned to ski for the first time in the Alps. This was an experience I will never forget and would’ve never done without the encouragement from my friends. Being in Italy, immersed in the culture, has taught me to slow down and appreciate the amazing experiences and the little things that I normally wouldn’t notice. It’s these little experiences that have impacted me the most. I’m so excited to see what else we do this semester and to be able to take these amazing lifelong memories home.

Ahna Herrera