When I was little, my dream had always been to visit Europe, but as I grew older, I became interested in Italy.
Since then, my vision was that one day I will visit and ride a Vespa by the Amalfi Coast, eat gelato and plenty of pizza.
I never thought I would be able to visit the country, or at least not in my young adulthood, especially still being in college. Seeing my parents living paycheck to paycheck, I knew they could not afford it, and if I wanted my dream to come true, I would have to work hard for it.
Fast forward to this year, when I had the opportunity to study abroad. This year is my last as a college student, and I’ve always wanted to study abroad, so it didn’t matter where or how much, but I was going to go.
I chose Italy and asked my mother if it was OK, since I knew it was going to be a huge expense for her. She agreed that if this was what I wanted, I would go, and it was now or never.
My adventure began on June 14, when I first arrived in Italy. What made it special was my arrival in Venice, the Floating City, but it was also a lesson.
I got lost walking through the small streets, crossing bridges and riding on gondolas to see the heart of Venice. I learned not to trust anybody, no matter how friendly they look.
After that, I traveled to Florence, where I walked every day by the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Croce. My stay here was the best. Everything was walkable, people were friendly, the atmosphere was more cheerful and the scenery was out of a movie. Words can’t explain how great it was to be there for almost two weeks. I never thought I would meet people from other parts of the world, try the best food there is and like coffee for the first time.
My stay in Italy ended in The Eternal City of Rome. Visiting The Vatican City was something I never thought I would do. Being in the same place as the pope was amazing. Going inside the Colosseum was surprising, seeing where the gladiators would fight for their freedom and lives.
Rome is a modern and fast city, but at the same time, you will never get bored. There is always something to do, such as attending a museum, a theater, musical event or listening to street musicians.
I felt like Lizzie McGuire in her movie, where she falls in love with the city, rides a Vespa with her Italian boyfriend, and throws a coin into the Trevi Fountain, wishing she will be back to find the love of her life. I fell in love with Rome.
To anyone who has doubts about going on a study-abroad trip, I recommend not hesitating. Go, it is a one-time experience and you will never be this young anymore. You won’t regret it; trust me.
