As part of the Italy Business program, my study abroad journey began in the beautiful city of Rome, and it’s been nothing short of unforgettable. During our first two days, we immersed ourselves in the heart of ancient history, touring iconic sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. We also explored the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, which was especially meaningful to me as a Catholic. Standing in such sacred and historic places felt both surreal and deeply personal.
Of course, no trip to Italy would be complete without the food and let me just say, Italian pasta and gelato exceeded all expectations. I’ve always loved Italian cuisine, but experiencing it in its birthplace has brought a whole new level of appreciation. Sharing these first meals with fellow students also helped us bond quickly, and I already feel like we’ve built a strong community in just a few days.
After Rome we journeyed to Florence, a beautiful bus ride through the Tuscan countryside. Once we arrived we dove straight into exploring the city center, admiring the stunning architecture and rich cultural atmosphere. The Duomo and Florence’s historic cathedral are truly inspiring. It’s hard to believe we get to live and study in a city that feels like an open-air museum.
To cap off our first week, some of us took a weekend trip to Elba Island. The contrast between touring historic cities and relaxing on crystal-clear beaches was the perfect way to recharge before the start of classes. Floating in the cool water, surrounded by natural beauty, reminded me just how diverse and special this experience is.
Now that our courses have officially started, I’m even more excited about what lies ahead. So far, we’ve had our first sessions in International Business and International Finance, and I’m already really engaged with the material. Studying these subjects while being immersed in Italian culture and alongside such a motivated group of A&M classmates makes everything feel even more meaningful and connected to the real world.
I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity especially as someone with family roots in Italy. The first week has already been packed with memories, friendships, and eye-opening experiences. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the program brings!
