A delicate, red push pin can hold so much power. For some, it can be used to hang pictures but for me, a push pin holds a heavy and rewarding weight. It holds the weight of travel. In my childhood bedroom, a world map was hung and the places I traveled to were marked with a little, red push pin. Like anyone’s travel journey, the pins started off scattered around my small town, but would soon grow and the pins would travel around the world. 

These push pins helped to symbolize my travels and commemorated the opportunities I gained. With every push pin came new opportunities, learning experiences, and adventure. I knew I wanted my next push pin adventure to be through the Joseph S. Bruno program. This program offers unimaginable opportunities and learning experiences. I have called Ariccia my home for a week now and I couldn’t be more thrilled. By being in the small town of Ariccia, I am able to live in a close-knit and welcoming community. 

A major bonus to Ariccia is that it is only a short train ride away from Rome! We traveled to Rome during our first week and after that day, I booked a train for the next day. Rome offers such rich culture, cuisine, and landmarks. One of my favorite memories so far was when I, as well as some other JSB students, solo traveled to Rome on the weekend. Toward the end of the night, a few of us decided to attend the event, “Night of Museums”. This event offered one euro admission to all museums around Rome. Upon entering the Musei Capitolini, we came across a live band in the middle of the museum. 

It was such an amazing moment to be a part of and that was only on the sixth day I have been here. This town and program has so much to offer and I am extremely excited to see what new adventures I am able to partake in. Also, did I mention there is a corkboard in my room here in Ariccia? Going to place a pin in Rome now! 

Arrivederci!

Emma Rutledge 

One of the rooms inside the Musei Capitolini.