Submitted by Courtney Marino on the 2019 summer session program in Italy sponsored by the Department of Behavioral Health and Nutrition…
Arriving to Italy was an experience I never thought I would have. Nothing compared to the first meal I had. Our first meal was at a gas station on the side of the highway. In America, this is not something I would have looked forward to because traditional gas station food in America is fast food or chips and unhealthy snacks. In Italy ,I was shocked to see that the gas station food was fresh. There was a small deli inside the gas station with three women serving food, almost like a cafeteria style service. The food consisted of different pastas, vegetables, and sandwiches. Some of the staple Italian ingredients found in this food were mozzarella cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh tomatoes. When I first walked in, I was very confused about how to order. I watched the locals as they grabbed a tray and utensils, and then I followed behind. It was intimidating to order food because I speak almost no Italian, so I resorted to pointing at the food I wanted. In this moment, I felt a slight culture shock because it was a situation where I felt completely out of my element, but I was able to adapt well by observing the actions of the locals. My first bite of Italian food is something I will remember forever, and it paled in comparison to what I was expecting for gas station food.
This week, we went to Florence, where I was able to see some of the most beautiful historic buildings in the world. The Duomo was so beautiful, especially the outside design made from marble. We were able to visit the Duomo museum, where we saw many of Michelangelo’s original art pieces, which have been preserved for many years. The cobblestone streets truly depict my vision of Italy. Seeing the bridge of Florence in person felt like a dream. I was able to climb the 463 steps of Duomo in Florence. The art inside the Duomo was so intricate and detailed, especially the ceiling mosaic. The painting has so much religious meaning behind it, and it is a large part of the history and culture of Florence. The steps of the Duomo were steep, but when we finally reached the top, the view made every step worth it. I was able to see the entire city of Florence from a different perspective. As I looked out, I realized that this is a view I may never get to see again, which made me feel even more grateful to be on this journey.
