First Month in Italy

Alright, during my first month in Italy, I have been checking items off the list of things to do in a lifetime. For example, seeing the colosseum, visiting the Vatican, and exploring the vast center. My first month spent living in the city of Rome has been stuffed to the brim with history and life. I have learned some very important things, such as finding my way home from any point in the city and figuring out how to follow along with the lessons in school. More importantly, I've learned things like the metro ride to school is the best time to do homework. I also know how to find the best Siciclian restaurant near my home. 

Anyway, it's an understatement to say that lots has happened in this first month. However busy it has been, I have loved every second of it. Another thing that I have become very fond of is the little community of AFSers that are placed in other schools and host families in this city. I see them when we get together for meetings, go to events, or when we just want to hang out. I have not just enjoyed learning the Italian language and culture, but also Thai, Chinese, Swiss,  Serbian, Paraguain, and Turkish cultures and languages as well. I think there is nothing quite like taking a bunch of foreign students and sticking them in a city where they learn and grow individually, but also know that they have each other. Sometimes when I'm having trouble sleeping at night, I will just think that there are lots of us spread out across this big city all doing the same thing I am. By thinking this, I have this feeling of safety and security. It has been a short time that I have known them, but I am looking forward to the rest of the year to come. 

I also have entered the school orchestra, I am very excited to start rehearsal and take part in the trips with them. This first month has been a blast and I am looking forward to many more to come!