Embracing Culture, Making Memories, and Cherishing Every Moment

 

Ancora una volta, Ciao a tutti! It's hard to believe it's been two weeks since I last wrote, as it feels like just a few days ago. Time has flown by so quickly, and it's finally sinking in that my exchange experience will only last a few more weeks... .

 

These past two weeks have been full of activities, filled with meeting new people and getting in touch with a lot of international cultures. 2 weeks ago the other intercultural students and I were welcomed to an 'aperitivo' event where we had the pleasure of meeting the volunteers who are supporting us during our exchange. We gathered in a cozy, vintage cinema room, presenting our countries, and listening to funny anecdotes and experiences from fellow students, all while enjoying delicious dishes. I really loved this evening!

 

Speaking of fellow exchange students, last week, I wasn't the only exchange student in my school; we were joined by many German students for a week. It was a nice change for me not to be the only exchange student in my class for a change! The welcoming ceremony was heartwarming, featuring typical Modican cookies and a lovely performance of students in our school playing their instruments playing the national anthems, and beautiful Italian songs, creating a warm and memorable atmosphere.

 

Last Thursday, our class went on a trip to the theater, unsure of what to expect. I was truly impressed, not only by the performance but also by the stunning architectural beauty of the theater itself. It felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The performance itself was incredibly moving, it was a very realistic piece about the immigrants, wherein we as viewers got involved by the actors, we were immigrants who got treated very badly during their journey to escape their home country from a big war. It was crazy to feel up close how it is. It was shocking and a big eye-opener. Because of the piece I’m being much more aware of everything going around in the world right now, following the news a bit more, and trying to be a lot more conscious of current world events.

Another very special event last week was the 85th birthday of our bisnonna (great-grandmother). The entire family gathered at her home for pranzo (lunch), celebrating with a delicious meal and, of course, a BIG (and delicious) cake. Tanti auguri a te, nonna!

 

Last but certainly not least, the intercultural students, including myself, were invited to a camp with
students from Sicily and Calabria. We spent three incredible days in Catania, filled with fun and unforgettable stories. It was a such fun to exchange stories and experiences with others on their unique journeys. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have met such wonderful people from around the world, even though I may not see them again, I will forever cherish the memories we created together. I've learned a great deal about various cultures, from Thai to Japanese, Swedish, and more. I even picked up a traditional Danish dance that I won't forget that fast 😉 !

 

Over the past week, I've accomplished quite a bit. I'm able to have bigger conversations with my host mom in Italian (she’s only able to speak Italian), doing lots of sports in the gym and the pool that allow me to meet many friendly persons, and getting to know myself better, including what truly matters to me in life and what I aspire to achieve. Personally, I'm thrilled with what I've achieved in this past month and excited that this adventure can continue a bit longer. I'm looking forward to keeping you all updated!

 

Tanti baci, Noor xx

Enjoy :)