Natalie
Undergraduate
English Education |
Natalie
Undergraduate
English Education |
Ciao! I can't believe I'm writing this blog post from Siena, Italy (LOL). It's been a little over a week since I arrived in Italy and I've experienced so many wonderful things in such a short period of time. The 2 days in Florence after our arrival were spent exploring the city, going to museums, and eating some amazing food. Then, it was finally time to travel to Siena to meet my host family. I had been looking forward to meeting Marcello & Gabriella, and already I feel like the luckiest person to be able to have this experience with them. I could not have asked for a more generous host family. While we may not speak each other's languages fluently, that has not impacted our ability to get to know each other. With patience and Google Translate, I've learned so much about them, their interests, and life in Siena. Last but not least, I've been enjoying my introduction to the International School of Siena with my peers. The environment is like nothing I've ever experienced and it's been really nice to meet everyone at the school. My mentor teachers have been so welcoming and I look forward to getting to know my students better throughout my time with them. The first few days have been great and I can't wait to learn more about IB (International Baccalaureate) education. I feel so grateful to be on this journey with my cohort and to be able to support each other as we student teach at the International School of Siena!
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So...this is actually happening! In less than 24 hours I will be getting on a plane heading to Italy. Then after some sightseeing in Florence, I will be living with a host family and completing my second student teaching placement at the International School of Siena. While I have traveled internationally before, I feel a sense of excitement like no other at the thought of this particular experience. I even struggle to put into words exactly what I'm excited for. I think the only answer that would suffice is "Everything."
I can't stress enough how international travel has completely changed my perspective as a human and as an educator. To live fully in another part of the world, to learn from people who are your colleagues and friends, and to connect with students is such an honor. You 100% become so aware of who you are and the responsibility to try and interact with others despite any differences. It is such a wonderful thing to exchange experiences, thoughts, questions, and to come out with a wealth of knowledge you could never have otherwise. So, I'm really interested in what my students will be like and what questions they might have. I truly look forward to getting to know my host family, mentor teacher, and my students! With that being said, I should probably try to sleep before tomorrow. The key word being "try" (anyone else get pre-departure energy/nerves lol?) Anyways, I can't wait to share more about my time in Italy and at the International School of Siena with you-ciao! |
AuthorHello! In recent years, I have become quite passionate about education and world travel. I’ve taught English in South Korea and think of my time there often. I enjoy reading, writing, and finding the best café nearest to wherever I’m staying. This will be my first trip to Italy and I am looking forward to (quite literally) everything! I can’t wait to experience all Italy has to offer and make memories to last a lifetime. ArchivesCategories |