Perugia, Italia

Applying to study abroad, for me, was a no-brainer. Even picking my country, Italy, wasn’t too difficult. However, when the time came to choose between spending the semester in Rome or Perugia, I had a difficult decision to make. On the one hand, in Roma, I could choose to surround myself comfortably with English-speaking people in one of the most tourist-populated areas of Italy. Otherwise, I could dive right in and immerse myself into the Italian language and culture in Perugia, a city somewhat off the beaten track. Now, a month-and-a-half into my study abroad experience, I am certain that opting for the latter was absolutely the best choice I could’ve made.
I came to Italy despite not knowing any of the language beforehand, which was simultaneously terrifying and gratifying. Learning Italian, thanks to the intensive instruction provided by my host institution, has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my time here thus far. In a matter of days I was able to complete simple exchanges with waiters and store employees and even pick up on bits and pieces of casual conversation. Adjusting to the culture thus became an easier process than I nauseously anticipated.
Here, in Perugia, I’ve been able to live in an authentic Italian city with ample time (guaranteed three-day weekends) to see the popular attractions in Pompeii, Firenze, Cinque Terre, and even other countries in Europe somewhat cheaply. My opportunities here are essentially boundless. Should anyone ask my opinion, I would say to not let language be a deterrent in choosing where to study abroad. Look at the language (and any other trying experience abroad) as an opportunity to learn, and not as a chore.


Photo&writing by Connor, 20, Perugia

A Bit of Perspective

     One of the major goals of a collegiate education is to introduce students to themselves and who they want to become. However, so many American students who attend college, whether it is a small school or a large scale university, only learn to recognize themselves in one context. It is easy to determine personal identity in a location where the social structure is rigid and predictable, and you can play the same part for your entire education. The challenge comes when you are forced out of your comfort zone and thrown into an entirely new environment. It is in that moment, when you are forced to truly become the version of yourself that you want others to see.

     In my personal experience, there is no more dramatic way to experience this than by traveling abroad. You are forced to recognize that you are malleable, that you will not play the same part your entire life, and the way that people treat you is entirely subjective to your location. For example, I am inherently invisible at my American college. I travelled abroad last semester, and suddenly it was as though I really and truly existed for the first time. I drew attention and was forced to decide how to conduct myself. In a new location, you are compelled to consider your moral standards and your place in society. Essentially, when you are faced with a different structure, you have to decide how much of the act that you put on every day is truly a reflection of who you are, and how much of it is just to fit in. With this knowledge, you introduce yourself to who you are underneath it all. There is no pressure to be anyone in particular, no pressure to play your role, simply space and time to decide who you want to become. I honestly believe that in today's society this is an essential part of becoming a functional adult.  American young people are so often stuck in the collegiate world of cliques and popularity contests. Once you realize that it is all trivial and entirely subjective, you will be able to focus on the things that really matter without worrying. With a cemented knowledge of who you are and how to conduct yourself across a wide range of circumstances, you will be of inestimable value in the business world, as well as your personal relationships.