Expectations of Italy

To be honest, I don't know much about Italian culture despite having a few friends who are Italian. In my head France, Italy, Spain, and Germany are the big European cultural countries. I know a lot about Germany, but the I only have vague ideas about what the others are like. I know that Italians are very family oriented, and try to balance work and leisure. I think that Italians will generally be friendly, but I don't know if Sardinia is representative of the rest of the country. By nature of being an island in the sunny Mediterranean, I expect people to be easy-going and relaxed, with a lifestyle to reflect that. Maybe it's because this is a bit of a vacation for me, but how could you take any work too seriously when you live in such a beautiful location?

I'm not too worried about my lack of language or cultural knowledge. I have been abroad twice before. When I went to Germany I knew the language and the culture quite well. I stayed with a host family and made German friends and lived as an ordinary teenager there for a few weeks. My other experience is vastly different. Through Engineers Without Borders, I have traveled to Uganda twice. In Uganda, I speak none of the language, experience a vastly different culture, and even my appearance defines me as an outsider. I have enjoyed my cultural experiences there, making good friends and learning about Ugandan food, music, and dance. I think Italy will be much less intimidating than Uganda. 

Ugandan Pals! Elaine, Sarah, Joseph, and Me

German Pals! Younger me, Jessi, and Vincent

Although I may not speak the language or know all of the culture, it will definitely be easier to fit in in Italy than Uganda. The fact that we'll be in Sardinia for a month will give me plenty of time to learn the ropes and get used to everyday life in the country. The differences in language don't outweigh the similarities between our Western cultures, I believe. It would be really cool to meet some Italian friends. To leave America to experience another culture and then only spend time with Americans doesn't make much sense to me. College students around the world have many of the same interests, and by hanging out with Italian students I will be able to experience their daily lives, relaxing and having fun as they do. I am not worried about becoming overwhelmed by the new sights and experiences I have because I think I will find them all enjoyable and a welcome relief from a hectic American lifestyle.

One of the cultural immersions I am most eagerly anticipating is the food. Since meals aren't provided, I will be left to procure lunch and dinners. I look forward to going to markets, cafes, and restaurants to dine and live as Italians do. My love of history will also help me to experience the culture. I am always really curious about the buildings and places I see and the circumstances that led to their creation. By reading and asking questions about the world around me, I will piece together a picture of what ideas, values, and events shape what it means to be an Italian. 

Ciao!