

Submitted by Nathaniel Burlew on the 2025 Winter program in Italy…
Over the past few weeks we got to visit some of the major cities in Tuscany. Notably we got to see Florence, Pisa and Siena. It was so surreal to see these places in person. The cathedrals were absolutely massive, the pictures can’t even do it justice. On the inside, every single square inch of the walls and even ceilings are detailed with gold or paintings. Climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa had my group feeling like we were going to fall off, we did not think we were going to feel the tilt as much as we did. The trip has been great so far, making new friends, seeing historic places, and not to mention, eating amazing food.
With my study abroad experience coming to an end, we got to visit cities like Venice and Verona. Venice was just as beautiful as you could imagine. The canals were woven between the beautiful and bright colored buildings. The seafood was some of the best I ever tasted. Verona, known as the city of love, was a cool experience. We got to see a colosseum, not quite like the one in Rome, and also got to see iconic buildings from Romeo and Juliet. This trip is winding down and it has been a life-changing journey. Being able to immerse yourself in a culture that is different than the one you are used to, is an opportunity that you won’t take for granted. I am so thankful for my time here, making 30 new friends and our fantastic instructors, Charlene and Tim! (Submitted January 27, 2025)
