Submitted by Laura Sandu on the 2020 spring semester study abroad program in Rome, Italy…
My first week here at John Cabot has been very eventful and life changing already. Going into this study abroad program, I was scared of how/if I would be able to adjust to this new lifestyle and whether or not I would even make any friends. Fortunately, I made friends right off the bat that were on the same flight as me going to the same program. Through these friends, I made even more friends as we all got settled into our apartments. I learned that everyone is in the same boat as me because we are all adjusting to this new normal so everyone is really nice and friendly. At first it was a little hard to adjust to the time difference and the realization that I cannot just communicate with my friends and family from back home, but I’ve come to realize that they will always be there for me if I need them despite the distance and time difference. It has been interesting to experience the diverse way of life in Italy like how they drive on all roads, even the small cobblestone ones that I thought people were only allowed to walk on. Although my first week here started off a little more stressful than expected, I was able to start adjusting with the help of all of the friends that I have made and the support from John Cabot students, my RA, etc. I am excited to start my journey here at John Cabot!