It’s hard to believe that this summer has ended. Not only did time fly by, but I had the time of my life. When people ask (which they always do), “How was it?” I have a hard time trying to put this summer into a nutshell. It’s a story that will come out in bits and pieces across many months, as it should. But while stories and memories will be shared, I will be the only one who knows everything- I lived it. The only people who truly understand are those who lived it with me.

Adjusting back to American life wasn’t as difficult as I expected. Of course jet lag was rough, and the food (especially coffee and ice cream!) is quite different, but I am so excited to share my Italian experience with others. I hope to keep some of the things I learned with me- accepting that things don’t always go as planned and being okay with that, going with the flow when I am a hard-core planner and thinker, and relishing each new thing that I encounter.

– Anna, Auburn University