Traveling in your Early Twenties
Lake Como, Italy. 2023.
Growing up I always had the influence of my mother who was a big traveler. She would constantly be going around the U.S. and other countries for meetings, work, and events. Going through life with a figure who was so independent, confident, and passionate about traveling, rubbed off on me and shaped me into the person I am today.
Since I can remember, my parents always encouraged my brothers and I to study abroad during college, if we ever had the opportunity to do so. As my two older brothers went through college and opted out of this opportunity, it gave me all the more reason to make this happen for myself. I kept this goal in mind and used it as motivation while I went through many semesters in college.
Rome, Italy. 2023.
Finally, the time had come! Before I knew it, I was applying to my program the Summer of 2022 and on my flight to Italy the Winter of 2023. My experience studying abroad at Santa Reparata International School of the Arts was everything and more to me. I was able to fulfill a lifelong dream, living up to my mothers independence and ambition for traveling, while also getting in touch with my Italian heritage. Having the opportunity to study abroad in my early twenties truly changed my life
I gained a new understanding for the world around me. It was humbling at times, but in the best ways. I learned many important skills at a young age like navigating the world independently, adapting to new and unfamiliar environments, immersing myself in new cultures, and making sure I put myself out into the world. I made many special bonds and unforgettable memories while I lived in Florence, Italy. These memories continue to stay with me in my every day life and give me motivation to find an opportunities like this again. As I write this, I am currently awaiting my internship in Barcelona, Spain for the Summer of 2024.
Sorrento, Italy. 2023.
Traveling in my early twenties gave me a new found purpose, a reason to continue exploring and finding the beauty in the world around me. The feeling of seeing so many amazing new things with fresh eyes is truly unmatched. I had always considered myself an independent person before I left for my semester abroad, but this really became evident when I was living in Italy and was solely responsible for myself and my experience. Traveling in your early twenties and having the opportunity to experience different cultures and lifestyles allows your mind to flourish and learn so much about yourself at a young age. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to do so, to take advantage of it and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Change and growth is inevitable and traveling is one of the best ways to experience life from a new perspective. You never know who you’ll meet along the way!
