Personally, if it is accessible and affordable, I feel that studying abroad is truly an essential part of every student’s college experience – whether it’s just for a week, month or two, or an entire semester. College, as I’ve experienced thus far, is very much about finding yourself and figuring out what you want to do, and how to make your specific degree program and larger university work for you in order to achieve your goals. And I can say with absolute certainty that there is nothing quite like being engrossed in another country: surrounded by its culture, food, and people.

Due to extenuating circumstances, my time in the Spoleto and Italy as a whole was nothing short of miraculous – and something I probably won’t get an opportunity to experience again for at least a few years. But I suppose if I had to give some advice for future study abroad students (and boy, could I go on for hours) I’d say that’s perhaps the most important thing: make the program work for you and your goals, but don’t burn yourself out in the meantime.

Wherever you end up going, studying abroad is quite literally the chance and experience of a lifetime – so make the most of it, whatever that means for you, and don’t let yourself get bogged down by typical college issues: coursework, relationship drama, etcetera. And make time for yourself in the midst of all the chaos – I promise studying abroad goes by so much quicker than you would think, so dedicate time to visiting the places you want to see or finding a restaurant that serves a dish you want to try. Some of my very favorite moments from my entire study abroad program came from those slower moments where I did things for myself and experienced what I wanted. It’s a small thing, but a way to diversify your study abroad program and add unique experiences on top of whatever itinerary you end up with. Regardless, you’ll end up educated and educating yourself in ways you cannot imagine until you are actually there, and it’s a feeling I hope many more students get to experience in the future and add it to their college career.