My best days spent in Italy were not necessarily about a particular place, but about what I gained from the experiences I encountered. For my entire college career, my least favorite question was, “What’s your major?” That question always led to more questions such as, “What can you do with an Art/English major?” Many people, including family members found it strange that I found joy in the arts, and often encouraged me to do something that would be more secure or bring in more money. I always felt like I was looked at negatively for following my passions, as if I would never be able to achieve my dreams in the eyes of those most important to me.

But since being in Italy, I have learned to stop caring what people have to say about me and my goals. I’ve encountered a maestro gelato maker who travels the world making gelato and sorbet, cheese and honey producers who are passionate about their animals and way of life, women shepherds who were told to do something else with their life. Each of these people have said that they do not care what others think of them; they wake up in love with what they do, and that’s all that matters. Although I am still unsure with where my path is leading me, I feel more confident in myself as an artist and value my skills so much more. No one asked me what I plan on doing with my majors, but instead encourage me by letting me know that I will learn one day and I still have so much time to learn still. Money does not seem to be as such of a motivator for career choices from my experience here, allowing me to feel more confident in what I enjoy studying. I am excited to go back to Charleston and put forth my all into my final pieces I will be creating during my undergraduate experience.