Takeaways from My Semester Abroad at CIMBA

Takeaway #1: Appreciating the Genuine Support Systems

There are so many amazing things I got to see and experience, but what made my study abroad experience truly incredible was the people. When I first arrived and realized there were only 23 of us in the cohort, I was nervous. Coming from a big university where I’m surrounded by new faces every day, the idea of such a small group felt intimidating. Being a part of a tight-knit program ended up becoming one of the most special parts of CIMBA.

Living in a dorm-style setting meant we shared everything: meals, classes, travel plans, late-night conversations, and all the small everyday moments that filled life in Paderno. Those shared experiences created a sense of community from the very beginning. The laughs, walks, random moments, deep talks, and the inside jokes made this place feel like home.

The sense of belonging was even stronger thanks to the CIMBA staff. From the professors who pushed us academically, but also helped navigate cultural differences, and helped us figure out the next cool thing to see in Italy. To the CIMBA office staff, who always made us feel heard and supported even throughout the most challenging weeks. Getting to know my professors and the faces behind CIMBA played a meaningful role this semester.

I can honestly say that without this cohort and staff, my semester would have looked completely different. The support, the kindness, the hugs, and the genuine care everyone showed made adjusting to a new country so much easier.

Takeaway #2: Appreciating the Differences of Cultures

Another one of my favorite takeaways was getting to experience all the different sorts of cultures in Europe firsthand. Experiencing new languages, trying local cuisines and treats, and seeing the history in real life that we learned about in school was extremely eye-opening.

I had the privilege to see multiple different countries this semester, and each had its own personality, traditions, and something new to offer. I loved getting the chance to talk to locals

and see what daily life looks like across the world from how I grew up. Even with language barriers, at times small or sometimes very real, there was always a connection with laughter.

Europe is unbelievably diverse, and getting to witness that is something I am truly grateful for. It made every trip feel like a new adventure and an opportunity to learn something completely new about the world.

Takeaway #3: Appreciating Working with People from Different Backgrounds

CIMBA is a unique academic experience because the professors come from all over the world and bring diverse teaching backgrounds. Our cohort is also made up of students from several universities, so an environment filled with different ways of learning and perspectives.

The influence of European-style teaching was one of the biggest adjustments for me. At first, it was very challenging to get used to, studying for exams was different, and the exams had different expectations. Over time, I began to appreciate it. The style encouraged me to learn the information, ask questions, and gave me the confidence to speak up for clarification. It was also nice to have professors and classmates who already knew my name and more about me, so class was always entertaining.

10 Tips for Future Cohorts

1. If going to CIMBA throughout the semester, bring clothes for the weather. I did not pack enough warm items and had to buy some on the weekend trips.

2. Be open to new friendships! Getting to be a part of a smaller cohort makes it nice to get to know everyone and builds a stronger support system while away from friends and family.

3. Talk to your professors and the CIMBA staff; everyone here has different perspectives and pasts, so ask them questions outside of the class content. It makes class more fun.

4. Take advantage of the free medical care. If you feel sick, go to the nurse. I ended up waiting and got super sick, which was sad because I was sick the whole last weekend.

5. Make a schedule for the week. Classes can get intense and very hectic, especially if you travel on the weekends. I recommend trying to get classwork done during the week if you can.

6. Take Italy Live, it is nice to learn the language while being here. You can also use it to communicate with the Italian students and people in the community. Professoressa Michela is also the sweetest human ever!

7. BUDGET! You spend way more than you expect here…

8. Make sure to keep extra room in your suitcase when packing or bring an extra suitcase. I have noticed you buy more here than you would expect for gifts and random stuff.

9. Collect postcards! A lot of our cohort got them places we visited and are going to write all the highlights on the back for memory. It is also fun to send them to family and friends at home.

10. Prioritize sleep when you can throughout the week!

A bonus: Say “YES” to new experiences! The energy you put into CIMBA and being abroad shapes your experience.

I will be back for one last blog. Thank you so much for following along so far.

Ciao, Italy, for now!

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