Submitted by Isabella Giovan on the 2020 winter session study abroad program in Italy sponsored by the Department of Finance and the Department of English…
Buongiorno! I arrived in Italy on Monday, January 6th, and to say it has been an adventure so far would be an understatement. When we arrived, we traveled to our campus we stayed at for the first week located in Volterra, Tuscany, Italy. So far, we have gone on day trips to Pisa and Sienna, which were both wonderful! Seeing cultural sites such as the leaning tower of Pisa, Piazza del Campo, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Other than the sites we have seen, the food has been pretty amazing too. From pasta, to cappuccinos, to gelato, they truly have it all.
However, one thing I noticed that was different than what I am used to in America is the portions of the food and the way Italians eat. First, the portions are much smaller, but there are many courses in one meal. We have had some dinners with three to five courses. Also, Italians do not snack much during the day, which is what I am used to as well! Another major difference is their dress. We were made aware that Europeans dress nicer than a typical American does on a regular day, so we were prepared to look presentable anytime we left our campus. I can’t wait to see what else is in store and what else I will learn, ciao for now!
