A plane ride away is an experience that will change your life forever. In the south of Europe, Sorrento, Italy can be found. A place I had never heard of before, yet now I have called it home for a few months. Going from my large home of Cleveland, Ohio to this small, relaxed town was quite the adjustment. Excitement, confusion and a mix of a million other emotions have flown through me since my arrival, yet it has been an experience that was completely worth it and I urge you to study abroad here, at Sant'Anna Institute. Why? Let me tell ya!
1. The location. Why would you not want to spend 3.5 months overlooking the Mediterranean sea? I pass Mt. Vesuvius every single day on the way to school & the view has yet to get old. Plus, a mid-class pizza break on the beach is always bomb. 
2. The people. Being an exchange school, Sant'Anna offers the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. The number of people I have met this semester is insane. I've met students from around America, I've met Italians, and have interacted with people from all over Europe. Everyone has a different way of living, and understanding that grows you as a person.
3. Classes & Internships. The classes offered at Sant'Anna are very different back home because many of them are oriented to the location. In my marine biology class, we learn a lot about the organisms of the Mediterranean sea and have snorkeling excursions for hands on learning experiences. I'm also interning in the marketing department of my school which is super exciting because it gives me a view into the business world of Italy. It's interesting to see cultural difference and what they focus their energy on as opposed to what American businesses focus on.
4. The language. At times, this can be one of the most challenging aspects of studying abroad. Days where I'm exhausted and thinking "I have no clue what you're saying!!!" happen, but I remind myself that the world DOES NOT revolve around me & my english language. Learning to communicate with the rest of the world is SO important personally, and professionally. Sant'Anna does an awesome job of helping their students learn Italian by providing courses that promote interaction and practice, so you're prepared!
5. Close-knit atmosphere. Going to a small exchange school means getting to know your classmates and professors really well. My creative writing class has four students total, so there is a lot of one-on-one help which has improved my writing tremendously. Plus, being so close to everyone creates that home away from home feel.
6. Travel. Sorrento is only a train ride away from the Naples airport, so when you're ready to start exploring the rest of Europe, you can do it at ease! I've visited a plethora of places so far, including Paris, Dublin, and Greece!
7. Personal Growth. You are officially out of your comfort zone and in the great, big world! Explore, listen, learn, and take it all in. These are the months where you will learn more about yourself than you ever have before.
Sant'Anna has given me the opportunity to see the world, meet so many people, and to see myself. If you're looking for your next adventure, you should seriously consider study abroad in Sorrento!
The minimum wage is not a living wage.
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