Here it is, the last post. I've been home for almost a week now, so I've had plenty of time to think about what I want to write. Now I will attempt to summarize my thoughts.
First off, it almost seems like this fall semester was a dream. It went by so quickly, and now all of a sudden I'm back at home and everything is back to normal. However, things definitely have changed.
I've learned so many new things. I have many Italian recipes that I have tried or will attempt from my cooking class and my wonderful host parents. They have also taught me to appreciate food more and really enjoy the flavors and time to be with family and other people I love. My Italian has improved immensely, thanks to the amount of practice I've gotten through conversations with my host family, conversation partners, and other Italians. Because of these opportunities I've taken advantage of, I can confidently say I speak Italian (albeit certainly not perfectly, I can always improve). Looking back, my only regret is that I didn't utilize these opportunities even more, but I will still keep in contact with these friends. I've been able to travel not only to new cities in Italy, but also new countries, something I didn't do very much during my 2 years in Verona. Seeing more of Europe introduced me to other foods, languages, and cultures.
Of course people have asked me "How was Italy?!" since I've been back. "It was great!" I'll say, and it really was. But that doesn't even BEGIN to describe it. It is really impossible to capture this entire experience in one sentence, one conversation, or one blog post. So please, ask me more about Italy! I really can't say enough, I just have some trouble figuring out where to begin. I've also tried to give you all a better idea of my time in Florence through this blog. I really hope you've enjoyed reading this as much as I've enjoyed writing it. And I really do appreciate you all taking the time to read my posts. It means a lot to me that my efforts haven't gone to waste.
Finally, especially to those of you who haven't had the opportunity to study/work/live anywhere abroad...DO IT! It is a unique experience that is like no other. Living in a new place with a different language and culture has enabled me to be more adventurous in trying new things and meeting new people. An experience like this really is an eye-opener in changing everything that may have been thought as "normal". One thing you may consider "normal" is "foreign" to someone else. So, I strongly believe that it is a shame some people haven't had a chance to travel out of the country. Take advantage of the opportunities you have! Especially if you are in college when it is easier to do so.
I had no idea how much studying abroad for one semester would impact me, especially since I've already done it for a longer amount of time before. However, living in Florence has really changed my life. I have learned things and met people that I will never forget, and I can't wait to go back :)
And so with that, arrivederci Firenze!
Caitlin
