As my time studying abroad has come to an end, I found myself overwhelmed with so many emotions. It felt like just yesterday that I was nervously packing my suitcase, saying a hard goodbye to my family, and flying across the world to start this new adventure. Looking back, I can confidently say that these past few months have been some of the most transformative, joyful, and unforgettable moments of my life. I never thought I’d be coming into this program and by the end, finding myself sobbing on the way to the airport because it was over. But that’s exactly what happened, and it is true evidence of just how impactful this experience has been.
One of my favorite memories from the program happened on our very last night. A big group of us stayed together in an Airbnb, and instead of doing something fancy or complicated, we ended up playing hide and seek for over an hour. It was silly, chaotic, and perfect. Just a group of people who started as strangers and ended as family. I couldn’t stop laughing that night, and I remember thinking, "Wow this is really the end, and I wouldn’t want to spend it any other way."
I’ve met some of the most incredible people during this experience. I truly love these people more than words can describe. It’s hard to imagine what daily life would be like without seeing them all the time. We’ve made so many memories together, traveling, exploring, studying, eating gelato, and just being there for each other through the highs and lows. I know we’ll keep in touch, visit each other, and continue these friendships for a long time. I definitely know who my bridesmaids will be. ;)
One of the most impactful moments was our final gourmet dinner together. The food was amazing of course but it was the conversations that really stuck with me. There were bittersweet moments throughout the night. Everyone is trying to savor the last bites, the last laughs, and the last hours of this special chapter. We shared our favorite memories, what we’ve learned, and how this experience has changed us. It was emotional in the best way.
Even the locals left a mark on me. Right before we left, a kind older man said to our group while we were walking home one night, "It’s good to see you kids so happy. Keep being happy and enjoy yourselves." That small moment meant so much. It reminded me how much joy and light we bring with us wherever we go and how important it is to keep that spirit alive even when we return home.
This journey has made me more independent, more open to the unknown, and more appreciative of life’s simple pleasures. I’ve learned to live in the moment, whether that means walking through a new city without a plan, eating way too much pasta, or simply sitting in silence with good friends.
To future CIMBA students: Embrace everything. Say yes to the random plans. Stay back a weekend and explore the local towns. Eat at the agriturismos. Go to Jack’s and play cards with people you’ve just met. Raid the coffee machines between classes. Make reservations if you’re going to dinner with a big group. Talk to your professors, they’re incredible people who truly care. Be present, be open, and be ready to fall in love with a whole new version of yourself.
Leaving is hard, but I know this isn’t goodbye forever. It’s more like "ciao for now" to the places and people who made this experience what it was. Studying abroad gave me so much more than I ever expected, and I’ll carry it with me forever.
It is now that I sadly have to say arrivederci. Thank you for following along with me!