Post Climbing 136 Flights of Stairs
Author: Eden Isbell | Major: Interior Architecture and Design | Semester: Fall 2023
It’s currently 9:14pm on a Friday night and as I struggle to find the perfect words to describe my experience studying abroad I find there are simply not enough words to do the experience justice. Having returned to the United States over a week ago I can safely say that reintegrating into life here has been much rougher than I anticipated. As I grieve the end of my study abroad adventures and begin to reflect on the past four months in Europe, I find myself not only missing the city but also the subtle nuances of everyday life that I had become accustomed to. Throughout the semester I found myself telling family and friends that it felt like I was living in a “fake life” and it wasn’t until returning that I truly understood what I meant. The city is constantly alive and while it was a little overwhelming at first, I grew to love the constant buzz of life that the city breathes. Through art, music, architecture, street performances, and classical concerts Rome remains a vibrant cultural tapestry that is unlike any other city. Living in Rome was a surreal experience. From a balcony view of St. Peter’s Basilica to crossing the Tiber river everyday on my walk to school, I fell in love with a city that beautifully intertwines ancient history with modern living.
Choosing to study abroad in Rome, Italy, during my fourth year as an Interior Architecture and Design student at the University of Arkansas was undoubtedly the best decision I’ve made since starting my academic journey four years ago. This experience has been an enriching journey that extended far beyond the realms of academia, allowing me to reach new levels of personal growth, cultural exploration, and professional development. The decision to embark on this unique study abroad experience in Rome was fueled by my fascination with the city’s rich historical and artistic heritage. Rome’s influence on the architectural world is unparalleled, making it an ideal setting for academic and professional growth, and I cannot emphasize enough how incredible this experience was. The program offered courses that seamlessly integrated theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Visits to historical sites, as well as accidental run-ins with architectural masterpieces, allowed me to witness the interplay between tradition and innovation and gain a new appreciation for the built world we live in. Additionally, small class sizes facilitated personalized attention and fostered a collaborative learning environment. As a more introverted student, I often don’t outwardly participate in class as much as I would like, but with the reduced class sizes I was able to gain comfort amongst my peers and express comments and ideas more easily than usual.
In addition to new academic experiences, I was introduced to an abundance of cultural differences through traveling. Being able to do activities such as hiking through Cinque Terre allowed a refreshing break from urban life but also inspired an understanding of the symbiotic relationship between design and nature, influencing sustainable design considerations in the field of Architecture and Interior Design. In each city I visited, being able to interact with locals, fellow students, and professionals in the field opened my eyes to diverse perspectives that will follow me for years to come. These encounters enriched my understanding of the global design landscape and reinforced the importance of cultural sensitivity in creating spaces that resonate with people from various backgrounds.
The daily rhythm of life in Rome seamlessly blends the old and the new. Mornings filled with grabbing a cappuccino and cornetto on my way to class, afternoons spent sketching in historic piazzas, and evenings exploring the city with friends contributed to a holistic and immersive experience. The pace of life in Rome encouraged reflection and allowed me to integrate newfound knowledge into my daily routine. The walkability of the city facilitated seamless exploration of Rome and its surroundings. Weekend excursions to nearby cities, such as Florence and Milan, provided additional exposure to diverse design styles and historical contexts.
Living in Rome heightened my awareness of the social and cultural dimensions of design. Understanding the historical significance of spaces and their impact on communities has become a guiding principle in my design philosophy. This heightened awareness of the societal role of design has positioned me to contribute meaningfully to projects that go beyond aesthetics, considering the well-being and inclusivity of the end-users. While I wouldn’t change anything about this incredible experience I advise those considering to study abroad to do ample research on the country and city you plan to live in. When preparing to move overseas I was under the impression that I would have an easier time picking up the language and cultural differences by going in without expectations. While this wasn’t the worst strategy, I believe it was a disservice to myself as the weeks I spent adapting could have been much smoother if I was more prepared. Moving to a country where I did not speak the native language was very overwhelming at times, and I highly recommend taking the time and energy to get to know the place you’re moving to before getting on the plane. That being said, I do think it is highly important to go in with an open mind and realize that you cannot plan and prepare for every circumstance you will encounter. Studying abroad is an excellent opportunity to loosen the reigns of everyday life and learn to be amiable to quick changes.
Studying abroad in Rome has been a transformative experience that transcended the boundaries of conventional education. It has sculpted me into a more globally conscious and culturally sensitive interior designer, equipped with a diverse skill set and a profound appreciation for the intersection of design, culture, and daily life. That being said, I cannot recommend this program enough and hope I have the opportunity to return to Rome one day but for now… ciao bella!