FLORENCE, ITALY

During my time abroad, I truly felt connected as a global citizen. By immersing myself into the Italian community, I gained a better understanding of the people and culture. As I frequented neighborhood eateries, did my own grocery shopping, got my hair cut, went to church, or just enjoyed a stroll through the cobblestone streets, I felt like part of the community. Not only have I become very conversant in Italian, but I have become a better listener and observer. While abroad, I also enjoyed visiting other countries. Although my visits were short, I felt I left a positive impression on the people I met and I was able to fit into their environment. Someone once told me that when we travel, we are ambassadors for our country. Through my travels, I have found that this is a good adage to live by. Throughout the course of my year abroad, I learned a tremendous amount about myself, the world, and my place on earth. 
ABROAD TAKEAWAYS: 
1. ADAPTABILITY IS KEY
2. ALONE TIME IS MORE VALUABLE THAN YOU THINK
3. SMILING IS A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE
4. SPONTANEITY - EMBRACE UNPLANNED MOMENTS & SAY YES TO EVERYTHING
5. IT'S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL... (BUT THERE ARE STILL SO MANY PLACES TO EXPLORE)