Emma McLane - 3d Reflection

Emma McLane
Reflection Letter 3
June 11th 2017

            Italy allowed me to live outside of my comfort zone and challenge my fears. While in the Dolomites, I contemplated staying on the ground and not taking the lift up the mountain due to my fear of heights. Since I knew I had the support of my friends and the group, I was able to challenge my fear of heights and take the lift up the mountain, and I am beyond happy that I did so. Although the altitude made me a little nervous the views were absolutely breath taking. It was amazing to be able to stand on top of a mountain and to be able to see Austria in the distant horizon.
            Besides expanding my comfort zones, I was mesmerized by the history of ever city that we visited. For example, I was shocked to see how far the city of Verona has risen from when it was a roman city based off the the exposed roman road that they were excavating. The history was preserved no matter where you would look.
            On my way home from Italy, I sat next to a professor from Vancouver, Canada. He had recently taken 10 students to Venice for 2 weeks to conduct a photography workshop. On the way back we discussed politics, art, and our trips. One comparison I was able to point out were the different lifestyles between what Americans and Canadians eat versus Europeans. I was pleasantly surprised to notice how fewer processed foods there are in Europe. Although there were certain conveniences that I missed while in Italy, I admire their healthy lifestyle, and the minimal obesity that the country has.
            Overall, this was an eye opening experience that allowed me to dive into the past while expanding my views on the present.

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