Being in Italy built confidence and independence

The John Cabot study abroad program that I participated in this summer was most definitely one of the most life-changing experiences I have had in my years, not only as a student but as a person. This was my very first time leaving the country and having the opportunity to experience such diverse cultures. Being able to be there not as a tourist, but a student was so rewarding and full of moments I will never forget. My family and friends were those who I missed most, however the people of Rome were so welcoming to where I really did not feel homesick at all.

One of the most shocking differences that I really noticed between Europe and the United States, was how we Americans have so many luxuries that we take for granted at times. For example, my apartment that I lived in had no air-conditioning. During the summer, Rome gets very hot so that was something I had to adjust to. Additionally, there are not many dry cleaners in Europe. I lived in an apartment with nine other girls, so the washing and drying was difficult at times.

I have always considered myself to be a somewhat shy person. However, I feel that being abroad really helped me gain more confidence. I learned how to open up to strangers, in order to build relationships. I also learned how to be independent when it came to all the traveling, which is a life skill that I will continue to move forward with. I feel that studying abroad completely adds another level to your college experience. It completely takes you out of your comfortable element and you are placed somewhere that you are extremely unfamiliar with, which enables you to learn in a new way.

I absolutely loved living in Rome, it was so great for so many different reasons. Rome is a huge city, so you really get a sense of how locals live their daily lives. It was also a great central location, which made it very easy to travel and visit different cities as well as other countries. When I was there, I was lucky enough to visit Florence, the Amalfi coast, Tuscany, and I also went to Munich, Germany and Split, Croatia.

Overall, my study abroad program was something I will never forget. It was something I have always dreamed of doing and I am so beyond lucky and grateful that I was able to do it. I am already trying to figure out when I will be able to make it back to Rome!

Name: Molly Astfalk
Status: Junior
Major: Communication
Hometown: Grosse Pointe, Michigan
Program: John Cabot University in Rome, Italy