A moment during my time abroad that had a truly meaningful impact on me was when I solo-traveled to Naples to visit my 100-year-old great-grandmother. I had visited her a few times when I was younger, but this experience felt completely different. Traveling alone and having a deeper understanding of Italian culture allowed me to connect with her in a much more meaningful way.
One of the most significant parts of this visit was being able to communicate with her more directly. Taking an Italian language class for the past couple of months has helped me learn key words, and although I am still a beginner, I was able to have simple conversations with her. Because she does not speak any English, this made a huge difference. Instead of relying solely on others to translate, I could engage with her myself, which made our time together feel more personal and special.
I also became much more aware of cultural differences during this visit. From the pace of life to the importance of family, I noticed things that I may not have fully appreciated when I was younger. My aunt, who came to visit from Rome, took me out to dinner and introduced me to a traditional Italian dining experience with multiple courses. It wasn’t just about how amazing the food was; it was about slowing down, enjoying each moment, and valuing the time spent together.
Beyond seeing my family, traveling alone through Naples was an experience in itself. Walking through the streets by myself allowed me to fully take in my surroundings. I noticed the architecture, the energy of the city, and the everyday interactions between locals. Without distractions, I was able to truly appreciate the culture around me and reflect on my own independence.
This experience impacted me by increasing my confidence and helping me grow both personally and culturally. I learned that I am capable of navigating a new environment on my own, communicating across language barriers, and building deeper connections with people. It also reinforced the importance of family and staying connected to my roots.
