Studying Abroad in Italy
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Lifestyle

18 Dreams That Need To Come True When I Study Abroad In Italy This Summer

Now that I'm traveling the world I've so much to look forward to.

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venice italy

I'm going to Italy this September! The course is on narrative art, emphasis on religious structures and artwork. I signed up for a faculty-led study abroad trip at the beginning of the year, and it all feels surreal. At first, I had so many questions. Am I really going to be able to go on such an adventure? Will I really be able to make the most of it? How the hell am I supposed to pay for it all? Will I be able to make friends abroad? Will the people I'm traveling with be my friends? What should I focus on, and what should I take away from this trip?

I first learned about the wonder of Venice in the 5th grade. My teacher read us a book called "The Thief Lord" by Cornelia Funke. It enraptured our class. I thought to myself: if there is anywhere on earth I could go, I'd go there

I have more information than I did before, but I'm still riddled with the prospect of exciting, unknown experiences. I don't want to put too much pressure on the idea of a perfect trip, but I know If I do my work beforehand and let myself live in the present I will have a magical experience.

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There are a couple of things I've identified as MUST SEE, or MUST APPRECIATE:

1. Art.

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Ancient paintings allow us a glimpse of how people of the past viewed the color and shape of the world around them.

2. Literature.

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Although I'm not versed in Italian, I imagine the texts and documents available in museums, bookstores, and libraries will be awe-inspiring. Perhaps I'll pick up on conversational Italian in my three weeks abroad.

3. Sculptures.

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Sculpture art is nowhere near popular as it was in the past. Sculptures replicate life-size people, places, and things. Seeing a three-dimensional piece of art is a whole new level of narrative. The detail work and body language of sculptures say more than any digital image.

4. Food.

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Toto, this isn't the Olive Garden anymore...

5. Dilapidated Architecture.

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It's amazing: structural integrity versus time. Time tells stories that concrete cannot. I can't wait to see the signs of age amongst buildings and pathways.

6. Hardy Architecture.

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Even newer, stronger architecture is fascinating in its design and purpose. Rich with lore, these structures are evocative of fairytales.

7. CANALS!

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I must ride a gondola, and I must witness the glimmer of the water as it bounces off vibrant walls. It sounds so peaceful.

8. MORE CANALS!

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I need to stand on a bridge and look down the corridor of a canal.

9. EVEN MORE CANALS.

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I'M GOING TO VENICE! Arguably the most beautiful city in the world. I'm lucky to be able to witness these canals before sea levels rise too dramatically.

10. Cobblestone.

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Most American roads are simple and dingy. Concrete and man made highways--been there, seen that. I want to feel the history beneath my feet, hear the crisp slap of cobblestone under my shoes.

11. Night time.

https://pixabay.com/en/cinque-terre-town-italy-village-828614/

​When the sun goes down, the lights come up. I want to experience the glow and effervescence of a beautiful city glowing in amber.

12. Little Shops and festivals

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I'm looking forward to exploring the little shops in Italy. Getting to know the family-owned practices and quaint artifacts. I'll have to keep room in my suitcase for bobbles and trinkets. Maybe I'll press flowers while I'm there, too.

13. Blue Water!

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Is bright blue water even real?!

14. ARCHES.

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​Admit it. Everyone's favorite architecture is the arch.

15. Homes.

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I want to notice the difference in housing from city to city, notice the age of stone buildings, and imagine the centuries of life revolving around the homes.

17. Friendships.

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What if I could forge lasting friendships and communications?

18. Romance?

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Whether it be an Italian vineyard man, or a handsome chef, or a curious traveler, or an intelligent innkeeper; what if I could fall in love? Just for a couple weeks, what if I could make a memory I would never forget? Maybe I watch too many movies like Letters to Juliet.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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