Globe Trotters: From the Trevi Fountain to Skydiving

By Meghan Crawford

Four years ago, I threw a coin into the Trevi Fountain.

As the old adage says, if you throw a coin in the Trevi, you will come back to Rome. And it was true; I returned to Rome.

Since my arrival here on August 24th, Rome has become my second home. The Italians are so friendly and are truly welcoming to others. When dining in any restaurant, they treat everyone like family and want to make the experience the best it can be. Although I have only been here for a short time, Rome has taught me so much about taking my time and enjoying every moment, whether it be dining for three hours with good friends, having good conversations over coffee, or catching a breath of fresh air while walking to class.

Throughout the semester, I have traveled all over Europe to 18 different places. Some other places in Italy and other places, as far as Warsaw, Poland. I have had some incredible adventures and made so many memories with old friends as well as new ones.

My favorite trip of the semester was also my last trip of the semester, to Switzerland. Upon arriving in the small mountain town of Interlaken, my first thought was, “wow I want to live here.” Interlaken was so picturesque and full of amazing outdoor sports, unique shopping outlets, and of course — A LOT of chocolate and fondue. This place reminded me of the mountain towns my family stays in when we go skiing and felt as if I had found a home away from home. Not only that, but while I was in Interlaken, I crossed a major item off my bucket list, Skydiving.

Although, I was nervous on the flight up to the drop zone, it was an experience I will remember for a lifetime. The views seen from the plane of the snowy mountain peaks and cute little mountain houses with their chimneys full of smoke were comforting. My tandem partner would jump scare the whole plane, (We all thought that was hilarious too, Dave). After the free fall, the instructor flew the parachute from about ten thousand feet all the way back down to the ground.

The Swiss culture was a style of living that appealed to all. With a mixture of the mountains, lakes, and a small city, everyone could feel at home. The Swiss were equally as friendly as the Romans, but valued different things, such as spending the day skiing with their friends and then heading to Apres Ski after, a popular activity in Interlaken.

As my semester is slowly coming to a close I will take what I have learned while living abroad with me. Whether it is being able to identify Hellenistic and Baroque characteristics in the Architecture of Tiberius’ Imperial villa in Sperlonga or learning that one should not drink a cappuccino after 11 p.m., a typical american mistake. I will miss Rome.

Last week, I threw a coin into the Trevi, I guess we’ll see where my third Roman adventure takes me.