Submitted by Monica Terreros on the 2016 winter session program in Siena, Italy sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures…
Italy has been a new world for me as I have never traveled to Europe. From the moment I left the train station in Rome, I was able to see many differences: the language, the colorful buildings, the narrow streets and the small cars. Everything was weird to me and even after a week, I am still trying to adjust. One of the things that has shocked me and that I love is the food. I am not used to having a three course meal, but I love it. The food is so delicious that I don’t mind gaining a few pounds. From salad to ice cream, it has all been good so far. One thing I did not know was that Italians tend to eat pizza for dinner whereas in the U.S. we eat it day and night.
Going to Pompeii has been a great experience. I had learned about the destruction from Mount Vesuvius in an earthquakes and volcanoes class at the University of Delaware, but the impact is bigger seeing it with my own eyes. I was able to apply what I had learned in a previous semester here, in Italy. It is surprising to see the ruins and the objects found from that event. They are well preserved and well displayed in order to help us understand what nature can do to humans. Pompeii also has an incredible view of Vesuvius and its surroundings. The human eye is not capable of understanding and admiring such a creation. As I go on to other cities, I hope I will gain more knowledge about Italy and its people, moreover, I would like to be part of their family.