Taking a step out of your comfort zone is something that everyone needs to do, especially during a time like your college life. Not only the Joseph S Bruno abroad experience, but any study abroad is such a great way to do that. Getting uncomfortable and learning new things is one of the best ways to broaden your views and discover more about yourself.

Signing up for this semester abroad was something I never thought I would do and was very out of the ordinary for me. I am a very big homebody and enjoy staying where I am comfortable. Out of nowhere I decided that I wanted to spend my summer abroad, so I signed myself up without a second thought. I had two years between when I registered and when we left for Italy, and in those two years I was constantly asking myself why I did that. I did not know anyone going and I had never even been out of the country. I was stepping into totally new territory without really considering it, and especially in those few weeks leading up to our departure I was deeply regretting it.

Looking back now, I can’t thank myself enough for taking that step and going way out of my comfort zone. In just the first few weeks in Italy, I have made friends with people I never would have known if it wasn’t for this program, experienced things I had only dreamed I would get to do, and learned more about myself than I thought was possible.  Given the chance, I would sign up again in a heartbeat. This semester abroad will forever be a reminder that taking the risk can be worth it in the end.

Catie Jowers