I am so excited for the experience of living, studying, and immersing myself in Italian culture for the summer! I hope to truly develop a global mindset and global citizenship. As I am an extremely task- and goal-oriented person, I decided to make a list of things I aim to accomplish while abroad. I am sharing my list with you all in hopes of not only keeping myself accountable but to hopefully (fingers crossed) by the end of the summer be able to check off my goals and reflect on new experiences that I have added to my list.
I am committing myself to have an open mind, think more positively, and push myself out of my comfort zone!
1. Visit a country I have never been to before on the weekend
2. Try new foods every week
3. Meet great people and make impactful relationships
4. Order a meal in Italian—no English
5. Retain useful information from my classes and get As
6. Learn to enjoy quality time by myself
7. Dedicate time to writing helpful and thorough blog posts
8. Find the positive in every experience
9. Visit at least twenty museums and learn more about Roman history
10. Journal every day
11. Take picturesque photos that will bring back great memories
12. Use a paper map to navigate Rome instead of using an app
13. Swim in the Mediterranean sea
14. See the view of Rome from a rooftop
15. Make a wish in the Trevi Fountain
16. Visit the ruins of Pompeii
17. Take a trip to the Amalfi Coast
18. Wake up early enough to watch the sun rise above Rome
19. Learn to navigate—using the bus, train, and walking in European cities
20. Change my phone settings to Italian for a week
21. Learn to cook at least one Italian meal
22. Continue my workout regimen (an hopefully find a pilates studio!)
I challenge myself to learn, grow, and mature from my experience abroad. Studying abroad is not only a chance to learn more about yourself, but the world around you. Study abroad is an opportunity to access global citizenship. I want to learn more about myself and my new home for the next two months, and I cannot wait to share my experiences with you all!
Joy Howard
<p>Hi! My name is Joy Howard, I am a sophomore Political Science major, Biology and Chemistry double minor at Howard University! I am so very passionate about effectively making a difference in our community by reversing exclusionary health policies. When I complete my undergraduate curriculum, I plan on pursuing degrees in law and public health focusing on improving women’s health care around the world. Outside of the classroom, you can find me in my favorite pilates studio, journalling, or at my latest internship.</p>
