Arrivederci, Roma

When I arrived in Rome, I remember having so many mixed feelings. Some were excited and some were definitely nervous. I had spent so much time thinking about what my summer in Rome would look like. I thought about the food I would try, the places I would visit, and the people I would meet. At the time, two months felt like forever. Now, as I am sitting in my favorite Starbucks back in Indiana, it feels as though it all passed in the blink of an eye.

Studying abroad has been so much more than checking famous landmarks off my bucket list. Of course, I will always remember going to the Colosseum and visiting the Vatican, and all the food and tiramisu I had. I also have so many memories from visiting other places in Italy like Sorrento, and Capri. But when I think about my time in Italy, it is the little moments that stand out the most like getting lost with my friends, rushing to catch trains or buses, watching sunsets, and laughing about the many unexpected challenges that came with living in a new country.

Living in Rome pushed me outside of my comfort zone in ways I never expected. It taught me how to navigate unfamiliar places, and appreciate the beauty of spontaneity. I learned that sometimes the best memories come from the moments you could never have planned.

This summer also gave me the opportunity to reflect on who I am. As an Egyptian and a Coptic Orthodox Christian, being away from home made me appreciate my culture, faith, and community even more. At the same time, meeting people from different backgrounds opened my eyes to new perspectives and reminded me how much we can learn from each other.

One of the greatest surprises of studying abroad was the friendships I formed. The people who were strangers on the first day became some of my closest friends. Together, we experienced the excitement of exploring new places, and sharing unforgettable memories. I know that even after we all return home, these friendships and experiences will stay with me.

As grateful as I am for the places I visited, I am even more grateful for the person this experience has helped me become. Rome challenged me, inspired me, and taught me to be more independent and open-minded. It showed me that growth often happens when you step into the unfamiliar.

Leaving Italy is bittersweet. Part of me is excited to be back home, but another part of me already misses the busy streets, the late-night walks, and the feeling of discovering something new every day.

People always say that studying abroad changes you, and now I understand why. Rome gave me memories, friendships, and lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Although my summer there already ended, I know that a part of me will always remain in that beautiful city.

Grazie, Roma, for an unforgettable summer. This is not goodbye, it’s see you soon!