Bologna

Mantova

Modena

Hello!

It has been a long time since my last post, so I believe that I owe you an update as to how my exchange has been.  My life here has been great and I have completely settled into my new home.  My Italian has been constantly improving and I now often find that I am thinking to myself in my new language instead of English.

A few days ago I returned from Sardinia where I met with over 200 other inbound exchange students from around the world in Italy.  It was fantastic to share stories and observations with other people experiencing the same thing.  The friendships that were formed by sharing this Italian Exchange were quite amazing.  Although most of the people had never met each other previously, there was a wonderful atmosphere of acceptance and togetherness.  

I have been going to Liceo Fanti, my school for about three weeks.  Although it is much different than my previous school in Canada, I feel quite comfortable here.  Over 1,800 students attend Liceo Fanti, and the building contains two floors.  However, I have somehow managed not to get lost....yet.  I remain in the same room for most of my classes, and I am with the same students in all of my courses.  In Italy the teacher changes classrooms.  I feel that I have gotten to know my class much better because for this reason.  Everyone of the students on my class seem very kind.

  About a week ago, I became quite sick, but it wasn't an entirely bad experience.  One of the worst things, I have always thought, is to be sick away from home.  However, this time wasn't all that terrible. I realized that this was because this is my home now and my family was right beside me taking care of me.

My Italian Family is amazing, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been placed in this home. I have very much enjoyed the time that I have spent with them (as you can see from the picture on the right of when) they took me to the beach) and I look forward to making more memories with them.

I am sorry that it has been so long since my last post.  I felt that for the first month it was important for me to  not think too much about you all back in Canada and instead embrace life here.  Now that I have completely adjusted, you can expect posts more often.

Ciao for now,
Megan