Tales from Abroad

Studying in a different country is an once in a lifetime opportunity. Through my experiences in Italy I learned about a different culture and different way of life. On our two weeks we were able to go to cultural festivities, eat Italian food, and begin to experience the Italian way
of life. Additionally, exploring the course topic on sacred space allowed me to examine my own beliefs and determine what creates a sacred space. It is the perfect culminating capstone course because you must combine history, architecture, art, literature, science, and religion in order to understand sacred space. For helpful tips, I would recommend students to begin studying basic Italian now. They don't need to know much, but understanding the basics (please, thank you, I would like, directional words, where is the bathroom...) would
be very helpful. I know that at times I felt rude coming into their
country and expecting them to help me because I was ignorant to the
language. Also, encourage them to pack light (backpacks worked
wonderfully), bring some Euros with you before you get to Italy
(you'll need them in the airports), and enjoy their time preparing for
and experiencing Italy.

Alison Gilchrist
Elementary Education

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