As I sit down to reflect on the past five weeks I spent in Italy, I’m flooded with a mix of emotions. Gratitude, nostalgia, pride, and wonder. What started as an exciting adventure quickly turned into one of the most transformative experiences of my life. From the cobblestone streets of Rome to the colorful seaside of Cinque Terre, each day was packed with discovery, learning, and personal growth.
The program itself was structured similarly to a high school schedule, with full days of classes and plenty of time for structured activities. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect with being in another country, living on a campus, and keeping up with academics, but I quickly found my rhythm. There was something uniquely comforting about the routine, even in such a different setting. It provided a sense of familiarity, which allowed me to better immerse myself in everything else that was new.
Classrooms were buzzing with energy, filled with students from all over the world, each bringing their own perspective and personality. The curriculum was engaging, and the teachers brought such a deep appreciation for Italian history and culture that every lesson felt like a bridge to the world outside the classroom walls. But what truly brought the program to life wasn’t just the academics; it was the people.
Looking back, one of my absolute favorite parts of this experience was meeting everyone. There’s a certain magic that happens when you bring together students from all over the world and drop them into a completely new environment. You bond quickly. This cover from bonding over gelato runs, shared confusion while navigating Italian train stations, and late-night conversations about the weekend ahead. These are the kinds of friendships that feel like they form in fast forward, and they’ve become some of the most meaningful relationships I’ve had. Whether we were exploring new cities, collaborating on schoolwork, or just sitting around talking, I always felt supported and connected. These people made the experience what it was.
One of the aspects of this trip that really surprised me was the sense of independence I felt. Being in another country, away from everything familiar, I had the chance to make my own decisions every day. I figured out train schedules, planned outings, ordered food in Italian, and learned how to be more confident navigating unfamiliar situations. There’s something so empowering about that. I felt like I had so much freedom to explore, but also the structure and safety of the program to fall back on if I needed it. That balance helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect.
The campus itself was lively and energetic, with a daily rhythm that echoed the feel of high school. We had classes during the day and activities scattered throughout the week, which kept things exciting. One of the best decisions I made was choosing to have a roommate. Sharing a room meant I always had someone to talk to at the end of the day, and it really helped me get to know someone on a deeper level. Some of my favorite conversations happened just before lights out, and those little moments of connection really stuck with me.
Over the course of the program, I had the opportunity to travel to so many incredible places. I visited Florence, Rome, Venice, Cinque Terre, and Bassano, just to name a few. Each city had its own personality and charm. Florence’s art and architecture were breathtaking. Rome was buzzing with history and energy. Venice felt like stepping into a dream, with its winding canals and timeless beauty. And Cinque Terre, with its stunning cliffs and vibrant buildings, was like a postcard brought to life. Being able to experience so many different parts of Italy was something I’ll always treasure.
One of the highlights of the program for me was the weekly trips into Bassano. I can’t recommend them enough. These midweek outings gave us the chance to really take in the town’s charm at a slower pace. We would explore local restaurants, try new dishes, stop for gelato at our favorite spots, and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains and river that make Bassano so special. It was during these relaxed moments, walking along the old bridge at sunset or sitting at an outdoor café with friends, that I felt truly connected to the place and to the people around me. These trips weren’t about sightseeing; they were about soaking in the simple beauty of everyday Italian life.
Looking back now, I can see just how much I’ve changed. I’ve grown not only as a student, but also as a friend and as a person. I’ve learned how to be more adaptable, more curious, and more open to new experiences. I’ve gained confidence in myself and discovered a love for learning and travel that I know will stay with me for years to come.
If you’re thinking about doing a program like this, my biggest advice is to embrace it fully. Be open to meeting new people, try things that scare you a little, and take the time to reflect along the way. Say yes to roommate life, don’t skip the Bassano trips, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You might be surprised by how much you grow in just five short weeks.
Italy gave me more than I ever expected. It gave me memories I’ll never forget, friends I’ll always cherish, and a new sense of who I am and who I want to be. I’ll carry this experience with me forever.