USAC Italy: Verona - International Business & Italian Studie

I chose Verona because it was a place I had never heard of before. As a Spanish speaker, my experience there was truly unique, I was able to communicate in Italian thanks to the shared Latin roots of our languages. I loved the friendships I made and the opportunity to fully immerse myself in an entirely different culture and country!

To say this experience was life-changing would still be an understatement. During my time abroad, I had the chance to visit 16 countries and numerous cities across Europe and North Africa. I navigated diverse public transport systems, adapted to new environments, learned about various cultures, and formed lasting friendships with people from all over the world. This journey also helped me grow in my public speaking abilities, pick up a new language, and gain valuable insights into both my personal and professional life. Through the certainty and uncertainty of it all, I’ve learned more than I could have imagined. Studying abroad is a remarkable achievement, and I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences and lifelong friendships I’ve gained along the way.

Studying abroad was truly one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career. Living and learning in a new country challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, adapt to different cultures, and gain a new perspective on the world. I not only grew academically, but also personally-building confidence, independence, and lifelong friendships along the way. One of the best parts of the program was the opportunity to immerse myself in daily life abroad, from attending classes with local professors to exploring new cities and traditions. Every experience, big or small, helped me see the value of global connections and reminded me how important it is to be open-minded and adaptable. I highly encourage anyone considering study abroad to take the leap. It’s an investment in yourself and your future that goes far beyond academics. The lessons I learned and the memories I made will stay with me long after graduation.