What has shocked me since being abroad?

 By: Henry Thiry

Major: Management

Program: CIMBA Program, Italy

Has there been anything that has really shocked you since you arrived?

When preparing to study abroad I often worried about how I would react upon my arrival to Italy. I was shocked when I arrived because I felt completely calm. I knew I had prepared for almost a year to study abroad in Italy. I knew some things would not go as planned. I was prepared to challenge myself not only academically but interpersonally as well. As time progressed, and I continued to adjust to my surroundings I was shocked that I did not feel homesick. I think this is because your home can change, and it should change throughout life. I know I am at home in Italy. I’m shocked by how well I have been able to adjust, and how remarkably comfortable I feel. It feels like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. If I can pick up everything and move to Italy, immerse myself in a completely new culture, and succeed in classes with people from all across the world...What can’t I do? What can’t you do? What can’t we do?

A picture of some of the folks who have helped to make this transition remarkably easy.

Categories: Adjusting to a new surrounding, Italy, CIMBA, Homesickness