Submitted by Kayla Baptiste on the 2017 winter session program in Italy sponsored by the Department of English…
Nothing is better than starting off the year in Italy. It’s not enough to study Italian food, culture and history within the confines of a classroom. In 2017, I decided I want to experience what I learn. For the new year, I needed a change. I must admit, the first couple of days in Italy were tough. Italian culture is very different from American culture. I found it particularly difficult to overcome the language barrier, but I managed to learn a couple of Italian words and phrases to help me along the way. I was over being homesick as soon as I started exploring my “home” for the next three weeks.
It’s hard to describe the historical beauty of a city like Rome. Ancient cobbled stone roads coupled with the beautiful architect of the city’s modern buildings comprise some of the initial sights upon entering the city walls. I was most excited to see the history that lives on throughout the city of Rome. Just outside my hotel room, I could see the Colosseum about a block away.
After settling in, I, along with a group of friends, walked around Rome, embracing the cultural differences between Italians and Americans. We grabbed some pizza before making our way to the Spanish Stairs. The view of Rome from the top of the stairs was breathtaking!
Afterwards, we walked to the Pantheon. Walking inside the Pantheon, I was filled with excitement; I was standing in a temple used by the Romans hundreds of years ago. I was surprised to see that it is still used today, as some people were praying when we walked in.
Overall, I know all I have seen, so far, is only the beginning. Rome is a vibrant, culturally diverse city filled with so much history. All I can say is this: When in Rome…