Thomas Colella

ISA – Institut Catholique de Paris – Paris, France (summer 2013)

ISA – Florence University of Arts – Florence, Italy (summer 2012)

Here at Ramapo College students understand the importance of a wide ranging, liberal arts education. A critical and incredibly valuable aspect of this type of education can often be found in international learning. Studying abroad in Italy allowed me to not only see a new culture from their point of view, but also my own culture with new eyes. I went to Florence, Italy for the Summer 2 session with International Studies Abroad (ISA) and in one month I learned about languages, cultures, food, and people as I never could have here. The sights were magnificent, the people incredible, the food delicious, and the language more beautiful than I remembered from my past vacations to Europe’s boot. Studying abroad is something every student should at least consider once in their college career. The chance at living and learning in a new city, a new country, or even a new side of the world is an experience that will not be around forever, and it is up to the student entirely to decide if he is ready and willing to take a leap into a new world and a life changing adventure. As a Ramapo Global RoadRunner I want to emphasize to my peers how easy it is to study abroad and how rewarding it will be once you begin your journey. I urge you to go somewhere new, meet someone new, do something new. You’ll never regret it, and you’ll certainly never forget it.