Submitted by Alyssa Wronski on the 2024 Winter ITAL/LLCU program in Siena, Italy…
My study abroad experience began with 4 days in Rome prior to the main program location of Siena. These days were packed with many different excursions and sightseeing where we learned a great amount of history and got to see everything we’ve read about or seen in movies in person. Within four days I have seen the Vatican, Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Pompeii, and I have eaten at so many new restaurants. The second I stepped into Rome I knew that this experience would be monumental for me, and it already has shown that.
Typically, I am not really interested in history. In school, history was always my least favorite subject and I always hated reading books about history or really anything related to it. However, going on guided tours at the Vatican, Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pompeii has definitely changed my opinion. I was genuinely really interested in hearing about the history of these ancient grounds and its importance. Looking at these monuments is so much more fulfilling knowing the history behind them. It makes them that much more beautiful and really makes you appreciate everything more. I like to think about how crazy it is that these architectural masterpieces have been standing for so long and they are still here. As I walked around Rome I was constantly thinking about the centuries of people that walked the same streets and walked into the same buildings; and how the way of life and usages of the buildings have changed so drastically since they were first constructed. These tours have really altered my perspective of history. I am more appreciative of all that contributed to life as it is here now.
Now, we are in Siena with our host families and I am so excited to see where the rest of this month takes me! Everyday is just better and better! (Submitted on January 7, 2024).
