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It’s been a week since we returned home, and now that I’ve settled back into normal life, I’ve had some time to reflect on this incredible trip. Traveling to Italy was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, filled with moments that I’ll treasure forever. From teaching eager students to exploring beautiful cities and immersing myself in a new culture, every aspect of this journey left a lasting impact on me.
This trip wasn’t just about seeing new places or trying delicious food (though that was definitely a highlight!); it was about growth, connection, and creating memories that I’ll cherish forever. Teaching in Torremaggiore was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. The students’ enthusiasm, the warmth of the faculty, and the community’s hospitality reminded me why I love teaching and the power of education to build bridges across cultures. I’m incredibly thankful for the amazing group of women I had the privilege of traveling with. Our group of ten was supportive, encouraging, and always up for an adventure. A special thank you to Grace, my teaching partner, for making every lesson a joy to lead and for being the best teammate I could have asked for. I also want to give a heartfelt thanks to Sherri and Keli, our professors and guides throughout this journey. Their dedication and passion not only made this trip possible but also created an environment where we could thrive, learn, and connect on a deeper level. Looking back, it’s hard to believe how much we packed into our time in Italy: singing with students, dancing in school hallways, exploring historic landmarks, tasting the best gelato, and connecting with so many amazing people. Every experience, no matter how big or small, added to the magic of this trip. We all wished we had more time to spend there, especially in Torremaggiore, and even found ourselves wishing we could have spent the entire J-term there! This trip was more than just an opportunity to teach abroad; it was a reminder of how transformative travel can be. It opened my eyes to new perspectives, deepened my appreciation for Italian culture, and strengthened my love for education. Italy has captured a piece of my heart, and I know this won’t be the last time I find myself wandering its cobblestone streets. To my fellow travelers, my students, and everyone who made this experience so special: grazie di cuore. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. ❤️
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Day 13: This morning, we said our last goodbyes to Torremaggiore. After enjoying breakfast at the BnB, we boarded the bus for our journey back to Rome. Thankfully, this time the bus was packed much better, so there was no climbing over suitcases just to get in and out! Once in Rome, we headed to the train station to do some more shopping and grabbed some gelato to enjoy. Back at the hotel, we took some time to relax and recharge after the long ride. Dinner was a treat—we enjoyed a delicious meal before heading to the Spanish Steps, where, of course, we indulged in more gelato. After soaking in the beautiful night view of the city, we finished our evening with some drinks before heading back to the hotel. As our trip winds down, it’s hard to believe how quickly the time has flown. Rome is as enchanting as ever, but leaving Torremaggiore behind has left a bittersweet feeling lingering in the air. For now, I’m soaking up every last moment of this incredible journey. Day 14: Today was the final page of this incredible adventure, and my heart is so full yet so heavy. Italy has been everything I dreamed of and more—so much so that I could genuinely see myself living here, especially in Florence, my absolute favorite city. The day began with an extraordinary experience—when we were in Torremaggiore, one of the senators invited us to visit the Italian Parliament, so we toured it today. Walking through such a historic and significant place felt surreal and was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Later, Miranda found a stunning rooftop bar and restaurant, where we all gathered for a picturesque dinner overlooking the city. Afterward, I took the group to Gran Café Marcel, my favorite spot for beautiful handmade souvenirs. It was lovely seeing everyone pick out meaningful keepsakes to take home. Sherri, Keli, Miranda, Jess, and I spent part of the afternoon shopping and exploring the underground of the Trevi Fountain. The hidden history and stunning craftsmanship beneath the fountain were amazing. Afterward, Sherri and I headed back to the hotel, where I packed up all my belongings—bittersweet doesn’t even begin to cover how I felt knowing this was the end. While the rest of the group enjoyed a cooking class, I opted for a quiet dinner at New Food Gluten Free. Their food has been one of my favorite discoveries on this trip, and it felt like the perfect way to end my time in Italy. I spent the rest of the evening relaxing at the hotel, reflecting on the countless memories made over the past weeks. As I prepare to leave, I am so grateful for every moment, from teaching and connecting with students in Torremaggiore to exploring the rich culture and history of this beautiful country. Italy has truly captured my heart, and though I’m heading home, a piece of me will always remain here. Until next time, Italia! Day 9: After several days packed with teaching, tours, and incredible meals, today was a much-needed rest day. Most of us stayed at the BnB, using the downtime to recharge and catch up on things we hadn’t had time for earlier in the week. The highlight of the day was gathering together to watch the Buffalo Bills game. There’s something special about sharing a slice of home with the group, even while we’re halfway across the world. The energy was contagious as we cheered for our team, bonding over the familiar excitement of game day. The rest of the day was slow and relaxing. Some of us spent time blogging about our experiences so far, reflecting on all the incredible moments we’ve had in Torremaggiore. It was nice to take a step back, process everything, and share our stories with friends and family back home. Though today was quieter, it was exactly what we needed to recharge and get ready for the adventures ahead. Tomorrow, we’re back to exploring and teaching, and I couldn’t be more excited!  Day 10: Today was another unforgettable day here in Torremaggiore, filled with unique experiences that blended history, culture, and a bit of spontaneity! We started the day at the high school, where we had the chance to chat with the students again. It’s always interesting to hear their questions about life in America and share insights into our culture while learning more about theirs. These exchanges highlight how much our lives differ yet how much we have in common, even across oceans. Next, we visited the museum inside the castle, where we delved deeper into Torremaggiore’s rich history. We learned about Fredrick II and his impact on the area, watched videos of the elaborate Easter parades, and gained a new appreciation for the town’s deep cultural traditions. The highlight of the visit was getting dressed up in medieval clothing! We felt like we had stepped back in time as we posed for pictures and soaked up the moment. As if that wasn’t exciting enough, we also had the chance to try our hand at archery. Shooting a bow and arrow was such a fun and unexpected activity! To end the day, we enjoyed another delicious dinner together. Day 11: Today brought new challenges, plenty of fun, and even more unforgettable memories. It was a day filled with teaching, connecting with students, and experiencing a slice of Italian culture. Our morning began with teaching two more lessons. The first was with a 4th-grade class, and it was, without a doubt, the most challenging lesson we’ve taught so far. Both the students and their teacher spoke little to no English, which made communication tricky. Still, we did our best to engage the class and adapt as we went along—it was a learning experience for everyone! The school also hosted an open house for the preschoolers today, and we got to welcome the little ones alongside the students. Some even joined our lesson, which added an extra layer of excitement. Afterward, we had a short break where we danced with the kids in the main hall. It was such a joyful moment, and seeing some familiar faces from previous lessons who were excited to see us made it even better. Our second lesson was with a 5th-grade class, and it couldn’t have gone better. The students enthusiastically helped us read the Italian translations in our book and dove into the activity with creativity and energy. They also had so many questions about us, our lives, and what it’s like in America. Their curiosity and excitement were heartwarming. After teaching, we returned to the BnB for lunch, which was, as always, delicious—pesto pasta, veal, and buffalo mozzarella with fresh tomatoes. It was the perfect meal to recharge before the afternoon’s adventure. We spent the afternoon visiting an olive oil mill, where we learned about the fascinating process of making olive oil. From harvesting the olives to pressing them, it was incredible to see the work and care that goes into producing this staple of Italian cuisine. We even got to taste some freshly made olive oil, paired with wine, and I enjoyed some homemade gluten free bread–-it was divine! As the day came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much this trip has taught me, not just about teaching and culture but also about adapting, connecting, and finding joy in the simplest of moments. From challenging lessons to dancing in the hallways and savoring the richness of olive oil, every experience feels like a gift. Day 12: Today was so bittersweet—it was our last day teaching and saying goodbye to the incredible people of Torremaggiore. From the walking tours to shooting a bow and arrow, getting a tattoo, and teaching lessons, I’ve loved every single moment we spent in this charming town. The memories we’ve made here are ones I will cherish forever, and I wish we never had to leave. We spent the morning teaching our final lessons, wrapping up with 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders using our book. In addition, we visited a 1st-grade class, where we taught them a song and handed out stickers and coloring sheets. The younger students were so excited to have us there, and their gratitude melted my heart. Saying goodbye to the students was incredibly difficult—I only wish we had more time to teach them and get to know them better. After our lessons, we visited one last church before heading out for hot chocolate with the amazing teachers and administrators who made this experience possible. The goodbye was emotional, with heartfelt hugs and more than a few tears, especially when we parted ways with Filomena, our incredible tour guide, and Matteo, the principal. Dinner was a special event. Jess gave a heartfelt toast, expressing her gratitude not only for this opportunity but also for the connections we’ve all made during this trip. We presented gifts to Sherri, Keli, and Giovanni to thank them for everything they’ve done for us, followed by paper plate awards that had everyone laughing. We ended our night with a dance party and pizza in the common room—a perfect way to close out our time together. Torremaggiore, you have been nothing short of magical. Thank you for everything. Day 5: Today, we left Rome behind and headed south to Torremaggiore—a small town filled with charm and the promise of a more immersive Italian experience. The journey itself was an adventure, complete with a bus bursting at the seams with luggage! Between the 12 of us, we had so many suitcases that we had to line the center aisle with them. Getting in and out of the bus at stops turned into a creative workout of climbing and maneuvering around bags. During our journey we made a spontaneous detour to a beach on the Adriatic Sea. Once we arrived in Torremaggiore, we settled into our charming BnB and took some time to relax. After a quick trip to the local grocery store, we sat down for a three-course meal prepared by our wonderful BnB host. We enjoyed fresh buffalo mozzarella, penne pasta with read sauce, and finished off with a course of chicken and cooked vegetables. As we settled in for the night, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this opportunity to experience Italy in such a unique way. Torremaggiore already feels like a place where we’ll make lasting memories, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. Day 6: Our first full day in Torremaggiore was nothing short of magical! The day began with a tour of the town, where we got a glimpse into its history, culture, and, most importantly, its people. At the town hall, we had the honor of meeting the mayor and the vice president of the council, who warmly welcomed us to their community. From there, we visited two schools, gaining insight into Italy's education system and the different types of schools for each age group—primary, secondary, and beyond. The highlight of the day was our visit to Emilio Ricci, the school where we’ll be teaching. As we walked into the gym, we were greeted with the most incredible welcome I’ve ever experienced. All the students were gathered, waving handmade flags that were half-American and half-Italian, and singing songs for us. It felt like a celebration, and I was overwhelmed by their kindness and enthusiasm! To top it off, the older kids came up to us with their flags, asking for our autographs. It reminded me so much of my students back home—their hugs, smiling faces, and pure joy. After the warm welcome, we toured the school and joined the faculty for a fantastic welcome party. There was food, dessert, wine, and lots of singing and dancing. We danced to YMCA, Mamma Mia, and other classics, laughing and enjoying every moment. The energy was infectious, and it felt like we were already part of this wonderful community. In the afternoon, we returned to the BnB for a quick nap before heading to the town’s castle, where we learned about Sacco and Vanzetti, two historical figures deeply connected to Torremaggiore’s history. The evening continued with another another incredible meal at the BnB. We were served bruschetta to start, followed by creamy pumpkin risotto and tender pork. Every bite was perfection, and it was the perfect end to an unforgettable day. Torremaggiore has already left a mark on my heart. The warmth of its people, the enthusiasm of the students, and the rich history of the town have made this experience so special. I can’t wait to spend more time here, teaching, learning, and immersing myself in all this beautiful town has to offer. Day 7: Today was another memorable day here in Torremaggiore, starting with two lessons at Emilio Ricci that went better than we could have hoped. We taught our book about Buffalo, and both groups brought so much energy and creativity to the classroom. The first group was curious about Buffalo and wanted to see more pictures, so we pulled up Google and dove deeper into explaining the sights and landmarks. They were so excited about the activity, though there was some confusion at first—everyone tried to copy the decorated buffalo we had on the board. In the end, their creations turned out great! Before we wrapped up, the students asked for our “autographs,” so we made our way around the room, signing their papers and feeling like celebrities. The second group was lively and absolutely loved everything—the book, the activity, and talking with us! They helped us read by taking turns with the Italian sentences after we read the English ones, which made the lesson feel even more interactive. Their creativity really shone through as they decorated their buffalos in unique and colorful ways. We used Google Translate to help us communicate and keep the conversations flowing, which allowed us to learn so much about them as well as them with us. Before leaving, we had them sign our books, took a quick group photo, and signed things for them. The experience was so amazing and reenforced my desire to become a teacher! After teaching, we visited the high school to talk with the students and made plans to hang out later at the pub. On the way back, we stopped for gelato, and let me tell you—it was spectacular. I got Nutella and pistachio gelato served in a croissant. It was absolutely divine, and I’m already dreaming of getting it again! The afternoon was more relaxed. We returned to the BnB for a quick nap before heading out for a walking tour of the city. We visited several beautiful churches and learned about their Easter traditions, including the processions they hold during Holy Week with statues of Mary, Jesus, and other saints. It was fascinating to hear about how deeply these traditions are woven into their culture and community. Dinner at the BnB was another incredible feast: roasted bread with some sort of cream cheese topped with salmon and arugula, pasta with shrimp, fish, and the most delicious tiramisu for dessert. To end the day, we joined the high schoolers at the pub for a little while. I stayed for just one drink before heading back to the BnB for a shower and some quiet time. I finished Harry Potter before falling asleep, reflecting on what a fulfilling day it had been. Each day here in Torremaggiore feels more special than the last. From the enthusiastic students to the cultural traditions and, of course, the gelato, every moment is a memory I’ll treasure forever. Day 8:
Today was another unforgettable day in Torremaggiore, filled with moments that deepened my love for teaching, music, and this amazing town. We started the day at the middle school, where we worked with three different groups of students, each unique and inspiring in their own way. With the first group, Miranda, Jasmin, Grace, and I taught a few songs and sang along with the students, creating such a fun and interactive atmosphere. The second group was older—8th graders, I believe—and Grace and I decided to take a different approach. We encouraged them to ask questions about us, school in America, and life in general. It was fascinating to hear their curiosity and excitement as they learned about our lives. The third group was incredibly enthusiastic, eager to learn not only about us but also about New York State, America, and why we loved Italy so much. We brought up a map of the United States to show where New York is and explained how the states are organized. To make it even more engaging, we showed them videos of the Buffalo State campus in winter and spring, Bills highlights, and of course, the iconic Bills shout song. Their energy was contagious, and when we taught them a song we had practiced with Jasmine and Miranda, they couldn’t wait to show their English teacher what they’d learned. After teaching, we returned to the BnB to rest, shower, and take a much-needed nap before heading out for the evening’s events. The evening started with a tour of the castle, which was both informative and awe-inspiring. But the real magic happened at the orchestra concert we attended afterward. It was held in the castle, and the setting alone was breathtaking. We had the honor of sitting on the stage in fancy pews, which made the experience feel even more special. The orchestra and singer were absolutely incredible, with performances so moving they brought almost all of us to tears. Having Giovanna beside us was such a gift—she helped translate what was happening during the concert and shared what the speakers were saying beforehand. The music was mesmerizing, and the entire evening felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Back at the BnB, we enjoyed another amazing dinner: toast with peppers and eggplant, pesto pasta with potatoes and green beans, and chicken with broccoli. Afterward, we retreated to our rooms, where we spent hours hanging out and chatting with Sherri, ending the day with laughter and connection. Torremaggiore continues to surprise and enchant me. From the students’ enthusiasm to the magical concert, every moment here feels meaningful and unforgettable. Day 4: Florence has always been my favorite city, and this visit only solidified its place in my heart. There’s something magical about its mix of history, art, and charm that keeps me coming back. This time, I had the chance to share the city with my fellow travelers, stepping into the role of tour guide—a role I fully embraced! It was so rewarding to show everyone what makes Florence so special and see their excitement as we explored its treasures together. We started our day at the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, the oldest perfumery in the world. The moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by centuries of history and the most exquisite scents. It felt like stepping back in time, and I loved getting to experience it for the first time with everyone! From there, we made our way to the iconic Duomo and bell tower in Piazza del Duomo. No matter how many times I see it, the cathedral’s intricate façade and towering dome never fail to leave me in awe. We treated ourselves to some rich, velvety hot chocolate at Cafe Gilli before heading to Palazzo Vecchio. There we marveled at Michelangelo’s unfinished carving, The Genius of Victory. Walking through the square, it was easy to imagine the city’s vibrant history coming to life. Next, we strolled along the Arno River, taking in the picturesque views. The Ponte Vecchio was a highlight, with its charming shops and lively atmosphere. While the famous La Carraia Gelateria was sadly closed, we made up for it with plenty of other delicious treats throughout the day. A visit to Signum was a delightful detour—I picked up some postcards and a little coloring book of postcards to remember the trip. Then, we ventured to Todo Modo, a cozy bookstore, bar, and café. This hidden gem was the perfect spot to explore, shop and soak in the creative spirit of Florence. We also visited the Basilica of San Lorenzo, where the tombs of Cosimo de’ Medici and Donatello are located. We explored the Basilica, admiring the beautiful artwork and artifacts in the basement museum. Afterwards, we made our way to the leather market where I bought my sisters and myself a new wallet. I then brought them to a shop around the corner to have them customized with our initials. Later I ventured off on my own to enjoy a fantastic sandwich at Sgrano, a gluten dream, while everyone else went to Lion’s Fountain, an Irish pub. This pub is a popular spot for students studying abroad because their menu features shots named after colleges (they even had a Buff State one) and have their t-shirt hung up on the ceiling. I remember visiting this place several times on my first trip to Florence. The day was coming to an end, but I had one more stop to make, Giulio Bistro located by the Duomo. This bar was my little sisters ‘home’ last year when she studied abroad and we had lots of fun when my family visited. Sadly Julianne, the owner, wasn’t there but Janinna and I enjoyed a few hugo spritz before making our way to the train station. Florence isn’t just a place, it’s an experience. From its historic landmarks to its hidden corners, every moment here feels like a gift. Sharing my love for the city as the group’s tour guide made this visit even more special, and I’m already looking forward to coming back someday! Our journey kicked off with a little bumpy flight to Atlanta, where we had about a 4 hour layover. The second flight was smooth sailing! Grace and I treated ourselves to Comfort+ seats, which gave us more space (and no middle-seat neighbors!). I passed the time by diving into Wicked, rereading the first Harry Potter book, and watching Abbott Elementary. Day 1 in Rome: After arriving, we had a lowkey day. We explored a bit, indulged in a much-needed nap, and went to dinner as a group. I had the classic carbonara, we visited the Trevi Fountain and of course ended the night with gelato–I got my favorite combo of pistachio and stracciatella. Day 2: We started the day at Porta Portese, a large open market that’s only open on Sundays. I acted as tour guide and successfully led everyone to the market. The walk was long but so worth it as we passed landmarks like the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Next, I led the group to Vatican City, where we were lucky enough to hear the Pope speak—a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Afterward, I set my sights on a 100% gluten-free grocery store, Celichiamo, and stocked up on snacks. A quick metro ride brought me back to the hotel for a nap before dinner (cacio e pepe and an Aperol Spritz, of course). We ended the evening with another visit to the Trevi Fountain and some gelato before heading to bed. Day 3: While most of the group had tours planned, I opted for a more relaxed day since I’ve been here before. I wandered the city, stopping at a thrift store, Pifebo, and a charming bookstore, Panisperna Libreria. For lunch, I found a gluten-free gem—New Food Gluten Free—and treated myself to a cannoli, pizza, and a croissant. It was the first cannoli I’ve had in 11 years, and it was amazing, one might say life changing! Later, I strolled the Spanish Steps and discovered a delightful souvenir shop called Gran Caffè Marcel. Everything there is handmade by the owner, and I couldn’t resist picking up some coasters and stickers. I’m already planning to return with some of the girls when we’re back in Rome! Stay tuned for more adventures!
One day more till we leave! I am incredibly excited and thankful to be traveling to Italy alongside a passionate group of future educators! This will be my fifth time abroad and my third visit to Italy, but this journey feels uniquely special as I’ll be experiencing the country through the lens of an educator. I’m eager to immerse myself in Italian culture, explore the education system, and grow both personally and professionally through this incredible opportunity.
I look forward to revisiting the vibrant cities of Rome and Florence, where history and art come alive, but I’m especially thrilled to explore Torremaggiore! This opportunity to connect with local schools and communities will deepen my understanding of Italian culture and education. Traveling, teaching, and embracing new experiences are my passions, and I can’t wait to share this incredible journey with you! Stay tuned for many pictures of pasta dishes (gluten free of course), gelato, and the breathtaking Italian scenery! Arriverderci! |
AuthorCiao! I am currently in my last year of the MIITC program and am so excited to share my experience with everyone via this blog! This will be my fifth time abroad and third time exploring Italy. I am looking forward to seeing Italy through an educator's perspective and to gain insight into the education system abroad! Outside of school and teaching I enjoy reading, coaching, and traveling. ArchivesCategories |
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