My favorite trips were to Vienna, Paris and Barcelona--each offering something unique and unforgettable. Vienna was my first solo trip; Paris was a birthday celebration for a friend I made here; and Barcelona was a incredible sunny weekend getaway from Italy's incoming winter. It was incredible to see how each location has its own language, traditions and atmosphere, despite the fact that they are all so geographically close to one another. Being able to move between such different cultures made me appreciate how diverse and interconnected Europe truly is.
I don’t even feel like the same person I was when I first landed in Florence. Coming here completely alone pushed me outside of my comfort zone in ways I never expected. Meeting many people, navigating new environments and creating my own community fundamentally changed me. This experience reshaped how I see myself and the world around me!
I also want to remind anyone reading this, including my future self, to stay excited and curious about the world around you. Being open to the world, and excited to learn from it, allows you to see life from new perspectives. Speaking with people from completely different backgrounds and upbringings puts so much into perspective. It also builds empathy, understanding and connection. Experiences like this may seem distant or intimidating, but there are real resources that make them possible. The Gilman Scholarship played an essential role in allowing me to study abroad, showing me that educational funding can open doors to life-changing opportunities. Asking questions, taking initiative and believing in your ability to explore the world can truly change your life.
