1. The city. As mentioned in my previous post, I find the city of Rome fascinating. The history, art, and architecture enthrall me. I have never been to Europe, and I am so excited that Rome will be the first city I get to visit. I hope to learn more about the architecture and history behind pieces of art, such as the Colosseum.
2. Self discovery.
Yes, I would like to "find myself" as the cliche goes. Though I believe that this is an extremely cliche reason to travel abroad, I also believe that self discovery is completely necessary and rather important. As I continue to trek through my college years, the question most asked to me is "What is your major and what are you going to do with it?". My answer is, "Business management and I have no idea." I am hoping that while in Rome, I will have two and a half months to think about all the things I enjoy in life and maybe discover a new passion or two. I hope to return to the states in the Fall excited about finishing my degree at UF and with a clear mind. I don't think that I need to know what I want to do with the rest of my life at age 18, that's crazy. I do think, however, that I should be trying new things, discovering things I enjoy, and focusing on the future.
3. Academic opportunities.
Studies show that students who Study Abroad at least once during their college careers are 1 million times more likely to find a job upon graduating. Okay, maybe not 1 million, but it is shown that international academic experience is extremely beneficial for a future career and a current resume. The small class sizes (10-15 students) will allow me to make relationships with professors and other students...aka networking (which is shown to be the leading factor in finding a job). I have yet to leave, obviously, but for some reason I already know that learning in a different culture and country will put things in a much more focused perspective upon my return.
4. Pasta, gelato, and pizza.
It's no secret that I'm a very picky eater. When in Costa Rica, all I wanted was some good ole' fashioned Zaxby's chicken fingers. For a fleeting second, I was nervous about eating while in Italy...but then I remembered I will be eating pasta, gelato, and pizza. I can do that. No sweat. I'll probably come home an Italian cuisine connoisseur.
5. Developing new relationships.
I have a strong feeling that this group of students traveling to Rome will become some of my closest friends at UF, and I am really excited about that. I am seeking a community of people with common interests, and by nature of us all studying abroad I know that these fellow classmates are academically driven, culturally aware, and adventurous.
Though those are not all of the reasons I am studying abroad this summer, they are a few significant ones. Most of the other reasons I am excited to go to Rome fall under the "self discovery" category. Whatever the reasons be, I am so excited to go to Rome this summer and I thank you all for your support and helping make this dream come true!
Happy Monday, hope it's a great one :)
Well my sweet daughter --- I feel even better about sending you to another world! Love you! Daddy.
ReplyDeleteYou'll definitely experience a lot of amazing moments when you study abroad. News friends, learning to adopt cultures and traditions and most importantly, you become more independent.
ReplyDeletereasons to study abroad