Zoe Freisner

When I signed up to study in Urbino, I honestly had no idea what it was. All I knew was that I’d be getting SMAD credits and get to be in Italy, which was enough for me. However, I can now say that Urbino is one of my favorite places on Earth. Not only did I get to try amazing food, meet incredible people, and practice my Italian, but Urbino became a place that a piece of my heart will always reside. While I’m home having Panera for the third day that week, I know I’ll miss breakfasts at Caffè Basili, pizza from Crescia e Vino, and maybe a few too many drinks from Rio’s (sorry, Mom). Though my legs will hardly miss the steep climb of Via Raffaelo, the views from around Urbino will never leave my memory. I am so grateful for the opportunity to not only explore Italy and my Italian roots, but to also do work here that I am truly proud of. I am thankful to my wonderful documentary professors, the friends who helped me out of my shell, and of course my amazing parents for making this trip possible for me. Grazie mille, e vi voglio bene!