Rome is not just a movie to me anymore its one of the most complex cities–entirely beautiful, frustrating, inspiring and fun at the same time. I may not have become an International pop star while I was here (hey-there’s still tonight), but I finally lived my own experience instead of relying on that of a Disney character’s. Now that’s a heck of a lot to experience in one semester. Most importantly, I became close with individuals from Notre Dame (and MSU + Marquette!) that I probably wouldn’t have met if it hadn’t been for coming here. I ate some of the best foods (and no I’m not referencing my Chipotle visits throughout the semester…) and got to take classes on subjects I’d never consider studying at ND.

I was able to meet some of the most interesting individuals, from mini-mart owners to pub crawling Germans. I got to travel to places I’ve always wanted to and those that I never considered visiting. After four months, I now have a third home. That being said, I truly believe it is one of the most rewarding experiences any individual can have in their life. Studying abroad isn’t always glamorous you have to learn how to live on your own in a new culture, deal with the fact that you’re missing out on life back home, and manage the whole “study” part of your experience with the traveling. I almost want to slap my four-months-ago-self for ever considering backing out. There were many times (including the night before I left) that I wanted to back out before coming to Rome because I felt like I just couldn’t live away from the states for four months. Truly only my parents know this, but coming abroad was practically a last minute decision for me. Now as I’m about to return to the US, I’m thinking I’ll feel the same way–except due to the presence of Target and vehicles bigger than smartcars.

I remember my first night in Rome, walking aimlessly through Trastevere being mesmerized by the cobblestones and old, vine covered buildings. It feels almost surreal, just like coming to Italy did.

I cannot believe that tomorrow at 11:55 am I leave for the United States. My last few weeks in Italy involved Easter mass at the Vatican, hopping on vespas, full on conversations in Italian (the practice was real!) a trip to Venice (finally!!), and “rome”-ing the Eternal City. Since my last post, it’s been a jam packed month (so jam-packed that I’m not quite sure I can report on it enough to represent how amazing it was). I really dropped the ball on this whole blog thing throughout the past month but let’s be honest, if you only have one month left in one of the most incredible cities on this earth, would you really prioritize sitting in front of a computer? Today marks my last full day in Rome I absolutely cannot believe that time has gone by so fast! The unfortunate thing about a semester abroad is just that–it only lasts four months.

Yamy xox five nights at pinkies