My time studying abroad in Italy was one of the biggest eye-openers that I’ve ever experienced in my life. I broke my leg abroad and underwent two surgeries in socialized medicine. To have learned how to overcome such a traumatizing event overseas was beyond difficult at first, the country isn’t built for the permanently and temporarily handicapped, and being in a wheelchair for several weeks was difficult but rather easy since the city of Florence is walkable and has some elevators, transitioning to crutches, practices of medicine. I had the choice to go back to the United States and I decided against it because I knew it was something I could fight through and not give up.

This was the most unexpected event to happen while abroad and I knew I wasn’t in a “safe bubble” anymore of being in my parent’s home, but I also knew how important it was to not give up yet and go home and just see everything out. Even leaving my home state for college was outside of my “safe bubble” and knew that there was always a solution to anything in life St. Norbert College also taught me that; independence.

Learning from these experiences during my time abroad and at St. Norbert College, inspired me to become a SAI Programs Ambassador and on the Social Media Team where I encourage students to study abroad regardless of my experience. Knowing that the worst can happen and still make the most out of the semester draws more students to study abroad since life gives so many teachable moments, they’re when it’s least expected.