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Personal Growth through exploration and experience

Learning about Italian culture through my time in Perugia

Since Perugia is a small town compared to the larger Italian cities of Rome and Florence, I was able to invest myself in the local community by practicing Italian and noticing the environment around me. I began to understand cultural norms, daily practices, and the general pace of life.

The major influence of religion across Italian culture was incredible to see, while it has gone through many social changes recently with many young Italian people starting to stray from the religious norms, it is still completely entrenched in the society. As the place where modern religion got its start, the signs and symbols throughout Italian cities and art were on full display, I thought this was amazing not only for its religious connotations but as a symbol of art and culture. The art made revolutionary developments through its exploration in styles and materials which impacted the world over.

Easter mass in Perugia

Experiencing Easter Sunday mass in a Italian demonstrated the devotion many Italians have to their faith, and it's importance in Italian culture

13th century monastery

Visiting a chapel where San Franceso d'Asisi lived and practiced was a surreal experience. Walking the Isola Maggiore paths where he walked, connected me to the traditions and history of one of Italy's most important figures

Artistic influence of Saints in daily life

As one of the patron Saints of Italy, his legacy and impact was clear to see throughout daily life in Perugia

Having the opportunity to travel with my family was an amazing experience and it allowed me to put into practice the skills I had been building through my Italian 101 course and using the train systems through Italy. I was navigating the nearby towns of Orvieto and Assisi with my parents, making sure we were taking the right trains and translating for them when we interacted with local Italians.

Exploring Assisi and experiencing the breathtaking Basilica de San Francesco, a truly amazing cultural site

Being able to show them the influence of religion in Italy, how it has impacted the history and culture

The Green Heart of Italy, as the region of Umbria is aptly named. Assisi proves that claim

Acting as the tour guide in Perugia, with the cathedral from the old city pictured in the back

The biggest thing for me in the study abroad experience was to learn about local Italian life and culture, and by living beside them let me see into their daily lives. Eventually I was enjoying local cuisine, partaking in local events, and enjoying the past times that are staples of Italian life.

Experiencing Italian football

As a huge fan of football, it was a must for me to attend a Perugia FC game. Even in the third league, the game was electric and the fans were full of energy

Partaking in coffee culture

Going for coffee or a drink is normal and as people do they find time to relax. Slowing down to appreciate each day is a huge difference from the U.S. as work culture here is the most important.