The First-Year Seminar Abroad in Italy was an unforgettable experience. I was given the opportunity to create lifelong friendships, incredible memories, and amazing discoveries about the world and myself. This experience has definitely enhanced my academic pursuits, career goals, and personal goals. The following paragraphs consist of my overall experience while abroad.

My academic pursuits are now more valuable to me than ever before. Visiting such a distant location is nearly impossible for those without an education. This experience has forced me to understand that my education is incredibly valuable in getting me to where I would like to go.

Along with that, my career goals have been enhanced for the same reason. I dream of one day becoming an orthodontist and being allowed to travel the world.

This experience was also very touching to me on a personal level. I was able to see beautiful man-made historical sights, smell and taste the unique cuisine, listen to the incredible Italian language, and grasp onto Italian culture.

Before finding out about this seminar, I would never have imagined myself in such a distant country. I am now certain that this is how I would like my future to feel. As a Mexican American student, I am used to not always being in a non-English speaking environment. What I am not used to is being in an environment where I do not understand the most common language.

I do not think that the transition between the United States and Italy was horrible. Most locals at the destinations we visited knew at least some basic English phrases. Communicating abroad was very simple because of that. My ability to switch words and phrases into more common English words has definitely improved. It was also common for me to respond to locals using only a few words. My overall communication has also increased because of this.

I would consider my entire experience in Italy to be a non-stop learning experience. I learned about the rich history, the culture, and the ecology. My favorite part about visiting new locations is learning about the different cultures. Italy has a very simple culture compared to others. Italians are humble and free individuals who care deeply about their history and art. A large part of the Italian culture is the unique cuisine. The culture also entails a uniquely beautiful clothing style.

My overall impression of Italy is very good. I really enjoyed seeing the beautiful ancient architecture, tasting the incredible meals, and enhancing my education. Many people made Italy seem very unsafe and full of crime, but it was the complete opposite. The destinations were much safer than I expected them to be. When I signed up for this program, I did not think I would come back with such strong friendships that will last a lifetime. The First-Year Seminar Abroad to Italy has definitely been my favorite, most memorable experience yet.

Name: Ayleen Hernandez
Status: First-Year
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Imlay City, Michigan
Program: FSA Italy – Track 2 - Historical Ecology of Italy