Dana's Reflection

This trip was truly a whirlwind of sights and experiences.  If I hadn't taken so many photos, I might forget half of it!  My favorite part of traveling abroad with a class is having the opportunity to get to know the students outside of the confines of the classroom.   We got to share so many first-time moments—navigating the labyrinth that is Venice, tasting "The World's Best Gelato" in San Gimignano, gazing up at the Duomo in Florence, and witnessing the historic election of Pope Francis in Vatican City—and, if you'll forgive a moment of corniness, these are memories that will connect us forever.  On a more individual note, I fell in love with Italy during this trip.  As a die-hard Anglophile, I feel a bit disloyal, but I was taken in by the beauty of the Italian cities and countryside as soon as I saw them.  I am determined to go back.  Soon!!