The Aftermath

I have been back from Italy for a month now and I wish I was still there! I miss the food, the people, the adorable accents - everything. I miss packing and unpacking from one hotel room to another. I miss travelling.
Good news is that I finally have pictures to share! A little late I know but forgive me I procrastinate as if it was a day time job.

Lost phones and brilliant professors

The reason I have not been able to upload pictures recently is because I left phone in a cafe in Rome. I know you're cringing but it happened. I called the cafe from the bus going to Florence and all they spoke was Italian. Fortunately I had the professor there to help me. He was so helpful and polite! I could not believe I could respect a man more but I was wrong. Anyway as soon as my phone is shipped to me there will be more pictures!

And on a side note, Florence is absolutely gorgeous and full of history. I want to stay here and learn so much more. And I highly recommend reading Dan brown's inferno before coming here because it gets you very excited to see the city.

Rome

So i just finished an exhausting journey from Rome to Florence , and I have to admit my 5 days in Rome were one of the best I spent in Italy. Our hotel was in the heart of the city and we got to explore campo de fiore and piazza Navona by ourselves almost daily. The atmosphere of Rome , old meets new, was so unique that I want to return. Although my favorite aspect of Rome was Bernini. I am a devout Bernini fanatic and if you don't see a sculpture by Bernini while visiting Rome you are missing out. The four rivers fountain in piazza Navona is mesmerizing and the various sculptures in the borghese gardens are one if a kind. The way that Bernini captures movement is so unique and beautiful it leaves you with a sense of peace. 

The food in Rome is delicious as I expected. The gelato was even better, I think I ate my weight in gelato now. 

On our last day in Rome professor rutigliano joined us for the remainder for the trip, and I he believes in fast walking and talking and learning. Tomorrow should bring some surprises. Picture to come soon. Ciao!

Bernini Italy

Venice and Naples

I have not wifi for a while and I can feel the absence. Venice was the most beautiful city that I have ever seen and I can not wait to go back some day. I only had a day but I have fallen in love. 

Naples has been interesting... We have been cat called a lot and frankly its creepy. I'm trying to decipher the line between creepy and Italian. Pictures to come soon!

San Marino and urbino

Today's day trip consisted of leaving our beloved bologna to take a day trip to urbino and San Marino. After traveling for 2 hours by bus we reached urbino and toured the duke of urbino's castle. It was beautiful in all it's renaissance meets medieval glory.

San Marino has no words to describe it. This one of a kind country inside of Italy stand on top of a hill looking over the Italian hills. The view is breathtaking and the drive there and back is well with every minute of the 2 hour drive. 

San stefano and piazza magiore

Trekking and eating

Wow, what a jam-packed past two days these have been. Bologna is such a beautiful city and it’s hard not to notice and appreciate the culture when we’re only a 5 minute walk away from Piazza Maggiore. Yesterday, we walked further into the city to the Le Due Tuori, two of the few remaining towers inside Bologna’s walls. Tess gave an insightful presentation on the towers’ background and then we ventured inside the taller of the two. We walked up 498 very steep, very narrow, steps to the roof. We ended up looking at one of the most gorgeous, panorama views of the city. Definitely worth the trek. After a nice lunch, and another shot for all of us to try out our Italian ordering skills, we visited the Basilica di San Petronio, which is currently celebrating its 400^th anniversary since completion. The architecture, paintings, sculptures, and stain glass windows were breathtaking. Unfortunately, no pictures were allowed inside, so you’ll just have to believe me. Next, we went to Piazza Santo Stefano, whose significance was explained by Therese’s presentation. We ended the day with dinner and a trip to the gellateria, which seems like it might become a nightly tradition.

Today, we walked all the way to the University of Bologna, one of (if not, the) the oldest higher education institutions of the world. We visited two of University museums, the Palazzo Poggi, which contains various scientific collections dating back to the 1600’s, and the Museum of the History of Students in Europe. There was an interesting room in the Anatomy section at Poggi, vividly depicting the various stages and complications of pregnancy and childbirth through models designed by 18^th century doctors for training purposes. Some girls were more interested than others due to variations in squeamishness. Either way, we all learned a lot about the history of science in Italy. After lunch and some free time, we walked and walked some more. We walked 2 km from our hotel to the bottom of the Basilica San Luca, another 2 km to the church at the top, and back again. The walk up the hill is unique because the path and stairs are covered by a portico (typical of Bologna) made of 666 arches. While the hike up the hill was certainly tiring, and we all were glowing (dripping?) with sweat, the view from the top was unbelievable. Not only was the landscape breathtaking but also the elaborate design of the Basilica. I have never been so awed by a piece of architecture, especially one so historic. Seeing the outcome of so much time, effort, and money put into the building of these churches makes one realize the significance that religion played in historic Italy, and how things have so drastically changed today.

All in all, I’d say we’re giving the Peru girls a run for their money in mileage by foot. However, we have no reason to complain. Eating pasta in the Piazza, snacking on gelato at night, and visiting some of the most beautiful and historic landscapes in our world’s history is close to paradise. I’m sure we will never be able to say this enough, but I want to thank all the parents for giving us this opportunity to explore and create lifetime memories. Next stop, Venice!

First day in Italy!

So we finally got to Italy and what a day!

Drive from Milan to bologna and explore around here. We had pizza for dinner and gelato for dessert. More pictures of today 
to come later! Night lovelies

P.s. look at my awesome hotel room!

Scavenger hunt through bologna

Today was my fourth day in bologna and it started off with a bang! We had a surprise waiting for us in the lobby. Our teacher sent us on a photo scavenger hunt through bologna . Although my team didn't win I definitely know the city better now and I lost at least a pound after walking for 2 hours. And honestly whoever thinks that I'm going to super fat after eating my weight in pasta here in Italy is dead wrong. I've done so much waking that Hussein bolt ain't got nothing on me.

Everyone got so competitive that we were ready to go down fighting. Literally. More pictures to come soon and more about beautiful bologna.
Ciao
Shristhi

Bologna adventures

We Arrived! (Just in time for a Zombie Apocalypse)

Our class’s first day was a great way to start our adventures in Italy. Beginning with two plane rides which included multiple security checks, gum chewing competitions and little sleep, we all had jet-lagged butterflies in our stomachs.  Upon arrival in Milan (Linate), Lauren and I made a bee-line for some much needed coffee. To our delight, we succeeded in ordering a cafe americano and a cappuccino in Italian. Applying what we learned in our recent Italian language classes made us feel quite proud. Even normally energetic Kiernan developed an affection for the phrase,          " sono stanca!", meaning " I am tired!"

From Milan we drove to Bologna, our first city. This last leg of the trip proved how tired everyone really was- within the first half an hour everyone started to fall asleep watching the rolling hills out of the bus windows. Arrival in Bologna came with some hiccups, but Ms.Sandes and Ms.Alexis handled everything expertly as always.

 In the first afternoon we settled into our hotel rooms and then ventured out to gaze curiously at the surroundings and were awed by the stately, old architecture. As a class we have gotten so close in the past year that spending time together is a lot of fun. We spent the first few hours in one of the hotel rooms playing card games, dancing, and talking about everything we were excited to see. 

Later, donning beautiful new sundresses, everyone set out for walk around the hotel to take pictures and explore. Despite the heat our class enjoyed our first peek into Italian life. We saw colorful buildings , children playing soccer, and many motos in the vias.

In the evening, while strolling through the center of Bologna we came across something very unexpected. On one of the main vias dozens of young people were dressed in military uniform, poised as though preparing for battle. Moments later hundreds more approached from the opposite direction, dressed as zombies, and attacking the ‘soldiers’. Although the zombies seemed to lose (they reanimated and continued on their way to repeat the show in Piazza Maggiore), we saw a very entertaining  zombie apocalypse. Upon further research, I discovered that this event is called the "Zombie Walk" and is an annual occurrence in Bologna. That same evening we also walked through a music festival going on in the main piazza. There were also several performers and musicians throughout the streets, which gave us a glimpse the rich culture of Bologna. 

We are looking forward to new adventures and experiences this week before we depart for Venice on Friday.We have been in bologna for 3 days now and the city looks like it just popped out of a movie set. The red roofs, arches, and beautiful shops all add to the experience. In addition to that we got explore bologna by ourselves as well, which I thought was pretty cool. 

My feet hurt so much. If they could scream they would be screeching. In the span of 2 days I have climbed over 500 stairs!

With more food, gelato, and foot aches, I head to my fourth day in Italy. Pictures to come soon!

Leaving New York

I am writing this as our flight takes off (shockingly) on time. We have checked in our bags and cleared security, and everyone can feel the adventure that is about to begin. 

I said goodbye to my sister and parents and to my two cousins who I won't be seeing again until next year. So pardon the cliche but ciao for now!

(I'm he second from the left)

Pre-trip Warm up

The flight to Italy is now two days away and I have officially started getting butterflies. It kinds feels the way as before I step on stage, like I just want to fast forward time until the show.
Everyone is supposed to do presentations when we get to Italy as well. I have presentations on the Sistine chapel, the Trevi fountain, and the Galileo museum.  More updates on how that research is going... The only thing that I find hard about these presentations is that there is so much to learn, organize, and present! I want to make my presentation fun and exciting- I honestly don't even want to  teach a boring presentation.
I also received my brand spanking new pancake lens in the mail yesterday- so excited to take pictures with that little puppy.
So today's agenda is buying necessities - and doing last minute shopping. Apparently I was so focused on buying clothes and I completely forgot about shoes- whoops!

Spring field trip to NYU

I
About a month ago, the entire ICS class took a trip into NYC to see the Frick Museum as well as attend a class at NYU. 

The experience was overwhelming! Not only was it a gorgeous sprig day but we all learned a lot. 

The Frick is such a unique museum in the sense that it is very personal. There are rooms instead of exhibitions and the entire environment feels more individualized. The whole class loved it, and the lecture from our professor at NYU.

Attending a humanities class was very different. We were all in awe of the campus- which was bustling with artists, musicians, and students. 

One artist was drawing a beautiful chalk painting in front of us!

The class itself was about a few chapters in Dante's purgatory. Having read Inferno, it was a great class discussion to watch. 

Next year I'm going to miss these trips into the city. I feel like I have learned so much and have gathered so much knowledge that I want to go back - this time on my own.

Language Classes

Today my class had their first italian language class and I have to admit it was so helpful! Our teacher , Valerie, taught us simple phrases like:

Come stai? - How are you?
Come ti chiami -  What is your name?
Piacere - nice to meet you
Sto molto bene - I am well
boun giourno - good day
bonna sera- good evening


Tomorrow is another language class and the unveiling of artist Greg Wyatt's new sculpture. Pictures to come!

We got our packing lists!

So I think , as girls, the one thing on our mind as we prepare for the month long trip is...
Packing!

What do we bring? How much can we bring? What do we wear?!?!

We received this packing list:

Generoso Pope Summer Immersion: Packing List
Clothes:
Do not overpack- we will do laundry (probably 3 times.) Plan for hot weather, but bring a couple layers in case we get cool days. 

Comfortable shoes and sandals for walking (1 of each: sandals, flats, running shoes)
Socks 
Underwear (enough for 10 days)
Pajamas
Dress at least one
Dressier outfit, at least one
1 pair non blue-jean pants
Shorts should not be too short (at least 3 in inseam)
Light water-proof jacket
Cardigan 
Shawl/scarf/pashmina
Bathing suit


Miscellaneous:
Sun screen
Sunglasses
Contact lens solution, glasses
Toiletries (some may be purchased in Italy to save weight in your checked bag)
First Aid items (aspirin, band-aids, cold and allergy medicine, etc.)
Personal medications
Tampons, pads
Anti-bacterial hand wash and/or wipes
Travel size tissue
Converter and adaptor
Camera & charger
Journal or sketchpad
Luggage lock
DK Eyewitness Italy guidebook and Lonely Planet Italian Phrasebook
Spending money (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)


Packing Tips:
    •    Bring your passport!
    •    Don’t bring clothes in which you will be uncomfortable
    •    It is a necessity to travel light, with only one medium suitcase and one carry-on bag. You will be allowed to check only one bag at the airport. Make sure to weigh your packed bag before leaving; it must weigh much less than 50 lbs.
    •    Use a mini-messenger bag or over the shoulder bag for everyday use.
    •    Label your items and your luggage.
    •    Pack your necessities in carry-on bag (medications, underwear, tooth brush, etc.).
    •    Do not pack any dangerous items (scissors, etc.), because security will pull you aside.
    •    In carry-on bag, make sure liquids (lotions, make up, etc) are in 3oz. containers or smaller. 
    •    Do not bring valuables (iPods and cameras are fine, but nothing too lavish)

Seems very informative, but what kind of dresses should I buy? How many should I buy?
 In order to really fit in when in Italy, I think i might have to do some research...

So... Why am I going to Italy in the first place?

Well I am in a program at my high school called the Generoso Pope Italian Cultural Studies.

"Italian Cultural Studies is a one-year college level humanities course that Generoso Pope Scholars complete their junior year. The interdisciplinary curriculum combines the study of Italian history, literature, art history, politics, language and film in a unique and rigorous seminar. Students will explore the civilizations, peoples and cultures of Italy and its regions from antiquity to the present. The course is organized in eight units that fall into the following categories: Ancient/Classical, Medieval, Modern Italy, and Immersion Planning. While the basic structure of the course is chronological, content addressing contemporary Italy will be interspersed throughout the year. Regular fieldtrips and cultural programming will complement the lectures and discussions held during class time."

I have completed the one year cultural studies course and now I am going to Italy along with the rest of my class!

Now I can look forward to the 25 page thesis i get to do next year...

Our travel Itinerary

Generoso Pope Italian Cultural Studies Itinerary
School of the Holy Child- Global Programs
Summer 2013: June 15- July 9
*Please note that trip itinerary is subject to change

June 15,Sat
Afternoon Departure From JFK
 Flight #104 departs 5:30 pm
 Flight #432 Dublin to Milan departs 7:10 am

June 16, Sun
Arrive 10:40 am in Milan
Drive to Bologna  & Check in
Explore Piazza Maggiore
Welcome Dinner
Blog: Shristhi

Bologna
June 17, Mon
 Le Due Tuori, Basilica di San Petronio,
San Stefano
Reflection: Lauren

Bologna
June 18, Tues
University of Bologna & Affiliated Museums
Basilica San Lucca (walk)
Blog: Casey   

Bologna
June 19, Wed
Palazzo d’Accurzio/Palazzo Communale
Via Clavature, Via dell’Independenza
Reflection: Catherine

Bologna
June 20, Thurs
Day Trip San Marino & Urbino
Blog: Therese

Bologna
June 21, Fri
Day Trip: Verona & Padua
Drive to Venice
Piazza San Marco & surrounding area
Reflection: Sally

Venice
June 22, Sat
Jewish Ghetto, Guggenheim Museum
Murano Island/Glassmaking
Blog: Tess

Venice
June 23, Sun
Drive to Naples
Tour of Historic Center
Pizza Dinner
Reflection: Ciara

Naples
June 24, Mon
Pompey & Mt. Vesuvius
Blog: Christina

Naples
June 25,Tues
National Archeology Museum (Naples)
Drive to Rome, arrive afternoon
Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain
Reflection: Kiernan

Rome
June 26, Wed
Vatican City & Museum,
St. Peter’s Basilica
Dinner along the Tiber
Blog: Caroline

Rome
June 27, Thurs
Villa Borghese, Borghese Gardens, Spanish Steps
Museum of Modern Art
Reflection: Christina

Rome
June 28, Fri
Pantheon, Capuchin Crypt Museum
Blog: Molly

Rome
June 29, Sat
Colliseum, Forum, Senate (w Professor Rutigliano)
Reflection: Tess
Rome

June 30, Sun
Drive to Florence
Il Duomo, Medici Chapel & Palace
Ponte Vecchio
Blog: Kiernan
Florence

July 1,Mon
Santa Croce, Santa Maria Novella
Il Bargello
Reflection: Therese

Florence
July, 2 Tues
L’Accademia, Uffizzi
Boboli Gardens
Blog: Ciara

Florence
July 3,Wed
Galileo Museum, Dante’s House
Pitti Palace
Picnic in countryside*
Reflection: Casey

Florence
July 4, Thurs
Historic Sienna Walking Tour
Cathedral
Blog: Sally

Sienna
July 5,Fri
San Gimignano
Reflection: Molly

Sienna
July 6, Sat
Montepulciano & Pienza
Blog: Catherine

Sienna
July 7, Sun
TBD
Reflection: Caroline

Sienna
July 8, Mon
Travel to Milan by bus
Farewell Dinner
Blog: Lauren          
Reflection: Shristhi

Milan
July 9, Tues
Morning Departure from Milan
Aer Lingus Flight # 433 departs Milan  11:20 am
Aer Lingus Flight # 109 Dublin to NYC departs 3:30 pm
Arrive NYC JFK 6:00 pm
Arrive NYC