Views over Lake Como, Italy during a weekend visit
Author: Jessica Lobb | Majors: Biology, Psychology | Semester: May Intersession 2023
When I found a program studying nutrition in Italy, it was love at first sight. I’ve always known I wanted to study abroad, but what I didn’t realize was how many options there would be. I remember initially scrolling through the website and being overwhelmed by the numerous choices. I thought to myself, how does anyone pick just one? I came to realize, however, that all those choices just meant that there is a perfect program for everyone, and I found mine.
I spent the May intersession in Florence, Italy taking a Food, Health, and Wellness course. The 3-week program was perfect for me because I wanted to have time left in the summer to work. The class analyzed the Mediterranean diet and culture through experiential learning. Instead of three hours of lecture every day, we immersed ourselves in the Italian lifestyle through city walking tours and cooking classes. It gave me the best of both worlds: I got to learn the academics regarding nutrition which relates to my future healthcare goals while also experiencing cultural immersion. I had two instructors in my class, a professional chef and a historical guide. On kitchen days we created healthy recipes that combined positive nutritional choices with traditional Italian cuisine. And as a bonus – we got to try all the dishes we made! My chef was extremely nice and we even got to help him cook some dishes for the fully functioning restaurant below our classroom. I found it really interesting how balanced the Italian diet is despite the large incorporation of pasta. Then on walking days we visited local stores and restaurants in Florence to learn about applications of foods and plant products in the real world. We visited the oldest functioning pharmacy in the world to learn about historical wellness techniques derived from Italian produced products such as olive oil.
On the weekends I was able to travel with friends I made through the CIS program. This was a great way to broaden my experience and it definitely taught me how to problem solve in surprise situations! The first weekend I took a train to Lake Como and was expecting an easy train ride. What I didn’t know was that a landslide had destroyed the train track and road leading to the town I was staying in. Because of this the train stopped prematurely in a tiny town with lots of locals that didn’t speak English. I had to problem solve to figure out the ferry system and roll with the curve balls thrown my way. This was really good life experience that tested my independence, and that trip to Lake Como ended up being the best weekend trip I took! My friends and I figured out the ferry system, and on the way back found a hike along the lake to reach the next town. That hike had the best views! I encourage anyone studying abroad to go outside their comfort zone because this is where the best experiences are found.
After reflecting on my time abroad I am very glad I chose Florence. It was a super walkable city which allowed me to wander and discover hidden gems in my free time. Taking time to yourself without distractions in a new place is a really unique experience. I developed an appreciation for the Italian way of life and discovered what I value most in my own culture. I’m excited to apply the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle in both my own life and as I continue down the medical path. It expanded my understanding of health and wellness from a new perspective. I recommend CIS programs to others too because it gives you a chance to form friendships with people from across the United States. I enjoyed branching out not only by interacting with locals, but also with students from a variety of backgrounds. And a last tip for traveling in Italy – bring a reusable water bottle with you! The tap water is drinkable, so you will save money and it is essential for the hot summer afternoons.