This semester, I was given the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy with a few close friends and many other Elon University students through Accademia Europea di Firenze, a small university in the city. Before embarking on this great adventure, many older friends and family members assured me that the semester ahead of me would hold some of the most incredible memories and experiences, and I can truly say without a doubt that they were correct. After spending almost a month completely immersing myself into the Italian culture, I am able to reflect back on the memories, specifically the best weekend of my life where I was able to spend two days in Rome with my classmates and teachers.
The city of Rome took my breath away. After an early wake up call, a walk to the train station in a torrential downpour and a quick train ride, I arrived in the city ready to immerse myself in art, history and Roman life. The group and I were whisked off to the Vatican, where we spent hours exploring the incredible paintings and sculptures, constantly turning our heads and clicking our cameras in an effort to take in this amazing place where so much has happened. After the Vatican, we were able to enter the Sistine Chapel. The moment I walked through the doors, my body was covered in chills as I stared in awe at the intricate detail and beautiful architecture. Although the guards in the Sistine Chapel insisted that we keep our voices down and our cameras turned off, it was an experience unlike any that I have ever had before.
Throughout the weekend, we were able to enter and learn about the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, three absolutely incredible places. I could feel the history all around me. It was crazy to realize I was standing in a place where gladiators were encouraged to fight to their death thousands of years ago. After some incredible food, gelato and sightseeing, we were able to experience the city on our own for the first time. During this time, I realized Rome had truly changed my life. I took a seat by the Trevi Fountain late at night and stared in awe, finally realizing where I was and how fortunate I am to be able to see and experience this incredible foreign city, when many people all around the world are never given the opportunity to travel. I was also able to rent a bike with a good friend and spend an afternoon riding around huge Roman gardens and parks. We made a wrong turn and ended up with the most beautiful view of the entire city, which was when I knew Rome had taken a piece of my heart. Leaving the city was sad, but I know I will definitely be back someday. I never thought the capital of Italy would have had this big of an impact on my life, but I am so happy it did. I hope everyone gets the opportunity to experience the city that changed my life, and I look forward to many more amazing experiences. Ciao, ragazzi! (Bye, friends!)