Now that a few months have passed since studying abroad in, I have had time to reflect on just how meaningful the experience was. At the time, I knew I was making incredible memories, but I didn’t realize how much the trip would continue to impact me long after returning home. Looking back, I am so grateful for the opportunity to experience a new culture, explore beautiful cities, and learn in a way that simply isn’t possible in a traditional classroom.
I was in awe of Italy’s architecture and incredible food, but the friendships that continued to form is what stood out the most to me. Spending the first two weeks together in Croatia and finishing it for a week in Italy made the adventures ten times more enjoyable. Whether we were exploring a new city, trying local restaurants, or simply laughing together during our free time, those experiences brought us closer than I ever expected. The picture that I attached was taken in Venice, Italy, which was one of our last destinations on the trip. We spent the day getting breakfast, attending Mass in St. Mark’s Basilica, shopping, and walking around enjoying the cool air with other students.
One of the greatest gifts of studying abroad is that the experience doesn’t end when you return home. This fall, I’ll have the chance to continue making memories with the friends I met during this trip, and that is something I am especially thankful for. It is exciting to know that the relationships we built overseas will continue back on campus through football games, dinners, and everyday moments together.