Rome, Italy: Summer 2008
The question was never if I would go, but where would I go. I had made up my mind to study abroad during my college experience when I was much younger; however, I had never been able to settle on one specific place to fulfill this dream. I knew I wanted to be located in Europe, but how do you pick just one to become your future home? I was torn between so many, each with their own culture and history for me to explore, but one city stood out in my mind above them all, Rome. The cobblestone streets were my yellowbrick road that lead me to discover everything my new home had to offer.
While being abroad I was given the opportunity to explore not just throughout Italy, but also Spain and France. Milan, Paris, Venice, Florence, Barcelona, Pompeii, and Paestum each offered me a new experience, and gave me numerous memories that I will cherish forever. By maintaining an open mind to each adventure and taking the time to learn the history and culture of each place I visited, I can honestly say I made the most of my time abroad.
My experience exceeded my high expectations of studying abroad. The friendships and the memories created abroad stand out as some of the best things that have happened to me while being a student at Penn State. Not only was this experience socially rewarding, it also benefited me academically. By completing my time abroad, I was able to complete my international business minor. I also took amazing photography classes which left me with thousands of pictures of the city I called home for the most incredible summer of my life.
I strongly encourage any student who has any interest in studying abroad to do it! If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me at msg5035@psu.edu or stop by the peer advisor office. I would love to help with any questions you have about this amazing opportunity!
