ROMAAAAAAAAAAA

Ciao and benvenuto to all those who are going to be following my many adventures across the ocean blue. I'm hoping to use this blog as means of documenting my stories while I am away and allow you readers the opportunity to experience Rome through my eyes. I promise I'll keep it interesting!!! There will be hundreds, and probably thousands of pictures to share, and who knows? maybe a few Italian lessons!

For those of you who just found out of my travels...surprise!!! I'll go ahead and fill you in on the background of this incredible opportunity. My school, Philadelphia University, has joined with the University of Arkansas Rome Center to offer students the chance to study abroad in Rome. I will be going with 7 other fashion students and we will spend almost four months in the ancient city.

Probably one of the most incredible features of this trip is where my classes will be held...the Palazzo Taverna...a 13th century palazzo!!!!!! The pictures I've seen are immaculate and I can't wait to be inspired by such a classic and beautiful atmosphere.

My teacher for the semester will be Antonella. She has so much experience in the field and currently works as a designer. She knows the ins and outs, and has the connections. As a class, we will be taking many excursions throughout the city. In the past, students have had the opportunity to visit famous designers' studios, like Versace. I mean, seriously? That's freakin' awesome!

Today, I got the list of approved classes I can take. Since I've already completed the language requirements in the States, I will have a few more options. At this point in time, it looks like I will be taking Italian Politics, Empires of the Mediterranean, Fashion Design, Fashion Illustration, and some "Italy" class that I can't remember the name of. Let's just put it out there: I am a complete nerd. I looooooooove history and politics, so I'm extremely excited about these classes. I know I will enjoy them immensely.

The Palazzo is about a 15 minute walk from the Pantheon and across the river from the Vatican. I will be in the heart of it all.

During my time in Rome, I will be spending a week up in Venice. I hope to travel to some other countries as well...possibly France, England, Germany, Spain and Greece. We'll see.

For how long I've been waiting for this time...ever since I knew what study abroad was...hahaha...I can't believe the time is almost here!

Everything has fallen into place perfectly. I just received my visa today along with all the final information I need. It's completely official now. It's true...I'm getting very excited, but my level of nervousness is increasing just as fast.

I am so grateful I'll have a couple of weeks to go home and get everything prepared. So much to do, but it will all be worth it.

Everyone's homework for the week: listen to one of my favorite Italian singers: Arisa. Especially "Sincerita" and "Te Lo Volevo Dire".

Before I head off to bed, let me know if there are any pictures you would like taken...specific places, etc. that you want to see!!