Caroline Shelly

I remember getting an email in 2020 for the SMAD trip to Urbino, Italy. I had just gotten into the major and knew I always wanted to study abroad. I was so thrilled about the opportunity I didn’t even glance at the name “Urbino,” I saw the word “Italy” and knew I wanted to go. Throughout the next two years, patiently waiting for the program to start up again after a long hiatus from COVID-19, we were approved to go. When I explained to friends and family I was going to Urbino, Italy, they did the same thing I had done – disregarded the city name and focused on the country, Italy. Now that I have been here and experienced the town of Urbino, the people, and the culture of this area it will never be forgotten. Urbino will forever be at the forefront of my mind when I think of Italy. It is unlike any place I have ever been. It has become my home. I am so fortunate to have been able to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity. Participating in a class that has never been taught before, creating with media professionals and outstanding professors, and making new friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Right before I left for this trip, I was very nervous. The nerves had been building for two long years of waiting and now that it was here, I just couldn’t believe it. My mom said something to me that I try and repeat to myself every day since I’ve been in Urbino, “You get to say that you lived in Italy.” It is so true. We didn’t just visit here, take a tour, or walk around a heavily populated area where most English-speaking Americans are. We truly immersed ourselves into the culture and lifestyle of Urbino, and that is something I will forever be grateful for and think of when I hear the word “Italy.”