I have about three weeks left in Rome, Italy. It seems like it was only yesterday that I was walking through the cobblestone streets with my overpacked suitcase and wide-eyed gaze. Now, I walk the streets of Rome with a lighter load and a slightly different expression. I’m absolutely still in awe every time I leave my apartment in the Vatican region and walk past the Castel Sant’Angelo on my way to class. However, I am no longer timid and confused while navigating the busy streets. It is amazing to me that I feel so comfortable in this foreign environment. This city has become my home, and leaving it is going to be so bittersweet.
Before moving to Rome to continue my studies in international studies and political science, I was working to my limits in Fayetteville. I remember feeling almost foolish for applying to the Rome program, but now I see that it was completely necessary for me to do so. I was completing the paperwork and requirements, not knowing if I would be accepted into the program. Even if I was accepted, could I afford it? Could I even live in a large city without knowing the language? Could I adapt to Roman life while taking the upper-level course load the program requires? Would this venture set back my graduation date? Needless to say, I was nervous and very unsure.
After speaking with advisors and people who had been to the University of Arkansas Rome Center, I knew it was worth a shot. So, I began the process of studying hard, working an outside job, applying for scholarships, and attending the meetings. I was completely overwhelmed, but reaching Rome was the goal that pushed me forward. Now, I can say that enduring that period of stress was incredibly worth it.
When someone is making the decision to study abroad, they must realize that their hard work is capable of providing them a life-changing journey. There are resources available for you. You may have to work twenty hours a week and fill out several scholarship applications, but these obstacles will provide a way for an experience that compares to nothing else in your life. Studying abroad in a foreign place changes you in many positive ways. Your worldview is often challenged, as well as your view of yourself. By no means is it always easy, but the person you become is more independent, aware, and adaptable.
Before coming to Rome, I did not really know what to expect. I did not even know if I was ready to tackle this experience, but I do not think anyone is ever completely ready to change their life drastically. Studying abroad is a process of failure and success. While you are engaging scholastically, you are also growing as a person. I have learned to give myself grace, as well as push myself to do uncomfortable things. I have learned to order my morning coffee and pastry in Italian. I have made friends with the owner of the pizza and kebab shop down the street from the Rome Center.
I have met and befriended Italian students, while also befriending students studying with me at the Rome Center. I have learned to navigate public transportation in a big city, and make travel plans. I have learned to adapt to cultural differences and respect that which differs from my life in the States. I have become much more independent and confident in myself and my ability to face change. While I have loved discussions in my transatlantic relations course, I have loved discussions with local Romans even more. Studying abroad is educational in all areas of your life.
What have I learned about the Italian culture? In short, it is absolutely beautiful. I have been fortunate enough to learn about history, politics, and current events in Italy through my courses. I have been able to view the country somewhat realistically with professors who are not too scared to discuss unfortunate historical pasts and current political hardships that Italy experiences. I think this is incredibly important to take into account when visiting places abroad. This is what makes studying abroad such a unique experience.
You are not visiting a place as a tourist with a set schedule and list of things to see and do. You arrive with preconceived notions, as this is unavoidable, and have no choice but to live in a foreign culture. Your preconceived notions about a place are often challenged, and this is extremely beneficial. You are not a tourist in that you have the opportunity to immerse yourself and experience things that the average traveler does not. Rome is full of incredible history and art. Almost the entirety of the city is a large museum, capable of opening your mind and challenging what you know about history and human nature.
In addition to amazing history, Rome has amazing goods. The Italian people take great pride in quality. For example, their clothing and food never fails to amaze you. I have yet to find an equivalent to Walmart, as most shops are specialized and catered to specific needs. I can get my fruit from the local market and my bread from a bakery. This is something I appreciate, as mass production and consumerism is a priority in the United States.
I have also noticed that for the most part, the pace of life is slightly different in Italy. Lunch breaks are much more common here. It is not uncommon to see colleagues enjoying a meal and chatting outside for an hour or more. People seem to value the art of discussion and engagement outside of work. This is something that makes me smile, as I believe that work often becomes more than a priority and prevents human connection. It is just small things like this that make me appreciate many aspects of the Italian culture. Studying abroad allows you to appreciate different circumstances in every place you visit.
In a world plagued by disagreements and misconceptions, studying abroad has the opportunity to assist in positive change. We are living in tumultuous times, and understanding different people and places requires stepping outside of your comfort zone.
This experience in Rome has lead to me firmly believe that it is so important to approach different places and people with an open mind, not solely as a tourist. You do not not have to study international relations or politics to learn abroad. It all revolves around how you approach opportunities abroad. You have the capability to realize that humanity at its core is essentially the same. In fact, you might be surprised as to see how much different societies actually have in common.
I really encourage those that have the opportunity to study abroad to do so. Be aware, your character and worldview will most likely evolve. However, this is a beautiful and beneficial thing to experience. Do not be too scared to work a bit harder and start the journey.
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Want to start your own journey?
Check out http://studyabroad.uark.edu/romecenter for more information on the U of A Rome Center options.
If you need help getting started with study abroad, take a look at this: http://studyabroad.uark.edu/getting-started/index.php
