Traveling to Italy, and abroad in general has always been something I've wanted to do. I've learned a great deal about European history already, and would love to learn more. I do feel that going would be more valuable to me as a person than reading about it in a book.
My great grandfather came to America from Italy when he was 12, by
himself. He has since passed away and I have no one to give me first hand
accounts of Italy and what it's like there in general. Since I'm part Italian,
this would help me understand a little more about myself. My parents have always
accused my sleeping-in, love for pasta, and love for music to be my Italian side
showing through. This would be a perfect opportunity to see if there is any
truth to it or not.
As a typical West Virginian student, I have not traveled very far out of
my area that I live in. This would also be my first time being any more than 6
hours away from my house without my family. I'll be going off to college soon,
and I'll be at a disadvantage to anyone that has traveled abroad and been away
from their parents for a period of time.
I also want to learn a little more about the music, classical or popular,
that Italian teenagers listen to. I’ve never gotten to hear any non-local
musicians perform before, and Italian musicians would have to count as new to
me.
It is nearly impossible o be considered a “global citizen” without
leaving my own country. The only time I’ve left the United States was when I
was in Canada for 4 hours to see Niagara Falls. This would be a one-time chance
to interact with a culture I know little about first hand. It would also expose
me more to the European ways of life.
At the moment, I haven’t been able to spend as much time at home
(awake) as I would like to. Right after school, I either have soccer, or band,
or both. I am also using a good deal of my after school time for my college
level English class.
However, when I am not overcome with homework or practice, I spend my
time either playing guitar or on the Internet. “Chores” take-up time too,
but it is unnecessary for me to explain things that people do anyways.
My interests have a strong base in music. I play the guitar, the tuba,
nearly all woodwind instruments, and drums. Some of my non-music related
interests would be soccer, hiking, and some hunting. I also coach and referee
soccer games in my community voluntarily.
I also enjoy just being outdoors. I’ve always liked the woods and
nature in general. I was informed that we would be doing some mild hiking while
we are there, and I’m excited about that. I’d also enjoy getting to see one
of the most famous mountain ranges in the world.
Although I am extremely easy-going, I do dislike a few things.
Fortunately, they are very few and I get over them quickly. Overly critical
people, and bullies are the two things I can’t put up with. I have a tendency
to be very liberal about people of that kind. However, I can keep my comments to
myself if the need arises.