My Experience

My time studying abroad has come to a close and now as I reflect on the incredible places I have been, the friends I have made, and my once in a lifetime cultural experiences  here in Europe, I can’t help but feel bittersweet about returning to the United States. When I came here I spoke little to no true Italian, and the concept of living in another nation so far away from home was a daunting one. As I set to leave, my Italian is still far from perfect but the idea of being outside of the States no longer holds any fear for me. For anyone interested in studying abroad during college, I would definitely suggest it. My experience has had some bumps in the road, a couple hospital visits, an unfriendly cultural exchange with the Lupa contrada, and more than one time being lost, but I know that all of them have helped me grow as a person. I feel thankful to have met the diverse group of people in the CET program and thank my lucky stars for Christina’s help in everything. I feel like I have learned so much in my short time here in Siena and have compiled a short list of some things I would suggest to someone looking to study abroad.

1.      Get involved in your community- This seems like a bit of trial but look for opportunities to involve yourself with local event and people. I taught kids English at a local elementary school and though they were a handful, it was always a bright spot in my day to see them.

2.       Know what’s going on with public transportation- This one is an absolute must particularly if one is looking to study in Italy. With its various strikes, changes in schedule and general lateness of everything it pays to plan ahead.

3.       Visit other parts of Europe- One of the best times I had studying abroad was visiting incredible places in Europe. There exists such a variety of culture and history so close together in Europe, that weekend trips can be eye-opening experiences.

4.       Visit other parts of Italy- As incredible as visiting other countries in Europe has been, the reason I chose Italy in the first place was a desire to experience it. Travel around. See Cinque Terre, Sicilia, Roma, and Venezia as each and every region of Italy is incredibly unique and has much to offer. 

5.       Try local delicacies- Be it escargot in Paris, Fiorentina Bistecca in Florence, or a Cannolo  in Taromina, find out what food specialties are made where you are and try them.  Europe has some of the best food in the WORLD, particularly Italy. It would almost be criminal not to try some.

6.       Spend time in your city- Travelling is great stopping to enjoy the beauty of Siena was a great way of recharging the batteries from travel and a great way to find out more about local culture. 

7.       Get out of your comfort zone- Put yourself out there. Don’t be afraid to talk to locals and practice your Italian. The Italians are a warm people and are willing to work with you to help better understand.

8.       Have Fun- Pretty self –explanatory, enjoy your time and remember how lucky you are to be abroad. 

Mike Babineau, UVA