Like most college students, I’ve been dreaming of studying abroad since I took my first French class in seventh grade. While a lot has changed from then to now–the first being that I’m an Italian Studies major–my passion for language and culture remains strong. I found out in the wee hours of leap day that my study abroad program, along with many other programs, was suspended due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
All of that hard work obtaining my student visa, figuring out what classes to take at the University of Bologna and finally understanding how to make a decent espresso in a Moka pot was moot. Not to mention, I'd have to say goodbye to my friends, faculty and roommates who I had grown so close to over the past two months. When my plane landed at Boston Logan International Airport, a wave of emotions hit me as I realized I wouldn’t be able to complete my semester abroad. What followed was two weeks of quarantine, filled with Skype calls and frantic emails sent to my deans and advisors.
For anyone that may still be making their way home during this uncertain time, the following six tips will help make this difficult transition back home as smooth as possible––no turbulence necessary.