When I signed up for my summer abroad with Global Summers Academy, I was extremely excited about all the new cities and cultures I would experience, but also very nervous about being away for a month. My program to Italy would mark my first time in Europe, travelling without my family, and being away from home for over a week. Coming from a smaller town in Ontario, I also worried about making friends in a new class and unfamiliar environment.
Although it was a difficult task to step outside of my comfort zone, I made it my goal to be present in the moment, embrace every opportunity and make the most of my time abroad. In fact, I can confidently say it ended up being much easier than I anticipated.
As soon as I stepped into the airport, I was greeted by other students from my program, as well as the friendly teachers and coordinators. The next day, I introduced myself to others in my class, and eventually, I got to know every individual – no matter if they came from Toronto like me, Calgary, Vancouver, or even California! However, there was one particular group of girls that I truly connected with and was lucky enough to room with in four out of five Italian cities. I made so many memories with these girls, from dancing in the streets of Florence to swimming in the Sardinian seas and wandering the Spanish Steps late at night. Our friendships grew so close that I still get together with them regularly!
I also challenged myself within my grade 12 English course. Throughout the course, my classmates and I were tasked with making a documentary based on any part of the program; I chose the mental and physical benefits of Italian culture, but my friends chose to talk about the coastal cities, or even rating gelato! This assignment forced me to step outside of my comfort zone in the most fun way as I learnt about and experienced different traditions, cuisines and livelihoods of Italians. I remember interviewing my friends, asking them about their authentic pizzas in Rome while we had the best meal of our lives, or taking pictures of the busy streets in Siena we walked every day. ‘La Dolce Vita’ was one phrase that Italians used to describe their slow, sweet way of life, and this phrase became an outlook we all took away from our program.
Overall, my ability to try new things – even if I was not super comfortable – allowed me to grow so much as a person during my summer abroad. I gained immense perspective and appreciation for all the world had to offer, and I became more confident in myself and my abilities. My time with Global Summers Academy was truly a gift that I was so lucky to experience, and I urge every student to sign up for at least one course abroad. No matter what program you pick, you’re guaranteed a summer of quality learning, lasting connections and once-in-a-lifetime memories.
Thank you to Student Ambassador Abigail C. for writing this blog post!
