#smicks

First of all, the new hotel we are in this year, Albergo del Sole, or, Hotel of the Sun (which is just adorable) is absolutely beautiful.  My two roommates and I have a private bathroom (rare in some European hotels) and a first floor view overlooking cobblestoned streets filled with quaint restaurants and shops.  We literally can sit at our window for hours just people watching and listening to the gorgeous Italian flowing from people's mouths.  The girls on this trip, 34 of us this semester, are all intelligent and outgoing, and we all have become very close.  At least eight or ten of us go out to dinner together every night, and yes, the food is to die for, even the cheap food that fits our student budget.  

In addition to all the walks my friends and I take on our own, the school takes us on fantastic trips nearly every week all over Italy.  This past Saturday, we toured the Roman Forum, which was the epicenter of ancient Rome, and the Colosseum.  Both were breathtakingly beautiful, and our guides, who are Saint Mary's Archaeology and Art History professors made us all very excited to learn with their contagious enthusiasm.  I can hardly wait for our "fall break" trip to five cities in southern Italy!

One thing unique to Italy, or maybe Europe in general, is that during the day the city is filled with adorable cafes that serve espresso and toasted paninis.  Imagine my shock when come Friday night, all of these little spots became full-fledged bars.  Our street went from adorable to party in just a few hours.  In addition, in no other city will you see such magnificent architecture while on your way to a bar or restaurant!  

Of course, my friends and I went to the Irish locale, Scholars, to watch the Notre Dame game.  It was not an easy game to watch, but meeting multiple foreigners in the bar made the experience worthwhile.  One screen would feature an American game, and the next, a European 'futbol' match.  That is one of my favorite aspects of Italy - it is a collaboration of so many different people, tourists and natives alike.  I have met so many fascinating and friendly people in the past week that I can't even keep them all straight.  

Obviously, my advice is STUDY ABROAD, STUDY ABROAD, STUDY ABROAD!  One week into the trip, and my life is already changed forever.  Now, I have to get back to reading about ancient Greeks and Romans.  Ciao!