Rome Abroad 2016 

"When in Rome do as the Romans do"

On this trip I got to completley immerse myself in a culture completely different from what we experience in the United States. It's weird to go to a place where you don't know the language and have no idea what people are saying around you. But what's special about Rome, is their sense of hospitality and friendliness, something I hope I continue to share with people around me.

Home

This image above shows our apartment building where we would live for 4 weeks in Trastevere, Rome. I lived in an apartment with 5 other girls who would become some of my closest friends on the trip. 

Cuisine 

While in Rome, eat as the Romans do. I think I spent my life's earnings on food while I was in Italy. I'm a huge foodie and the quality of the food was absolutely impeccable.  I also happen to love pasta and gelato so I was in my heaven and may have even gained a few pounds. We were even fortunate enough to take a cooking class where we learned how to make homemade pasta. 

The School

The image above is where we had our Painting studio,  Art History, and Italian classes. The building itself is a palace that is rented out to different programs by the princesses who live there. It is a beautiful building both inside and out with amazing frescos inside. 

Architecture

While studying abroad in Rome, I was obviously surrounded by some of the greatest architecture in the world. I was astounded and constantly in awe at all the different cathedrals and churches, the Roman Forum, the Coliseum, just every building was breathtaking and beautiful. 

My Project

During our studio, I decided to do an oil painting series of talking statues that are seen throughout Rome. They were originally used to talk to one another about secrets and drama around Rome. I decided to have them talk about American drama which back then was all about the election. 

Friendships

While abroad I knew one girl on my trip, which may even be a stretch. I'm a pretty friendly person but had to step a little out of my comfort zone to make new friends. This trip taught me how amazing friendships can be. I hope to carry the friendships I made on that trip forever because I was blessed to be with such an amazing group of women. 

Travels

I had the privilege to travel while I was in Italy to places all over the beautiful country. I definitely recommend taking the train to visit Florence, Cinque Terre, and Venice. Below are some pictures of my favorite places I've ever visited.