Cultural differences: making lifestyle changes while studying abroad
-- Tori Turnquist
In December 2007, Metropolitan State University posted an announcement for a 2008 study abroad program. With deadlines and deposits fast approaching, students quickly enrolled for a sunny summer in Perugia, Italy. With a bit of determination and support from loved ones, each participant worked through common obstacles.
“I wish I would have done that when I was in college,” my coworker said to me when I announced my five-week leave at a monthly team meeting. It was a very common response I heard pre-departure. After many thorough meetings with managers and the company’s support of my educational goals, arrangements were agreed upon and my plane ticket was purchased. Other students committed to working off-site, spending part-time hours logged into an office database, and another company hired temporary contract employees to fulfill simple tasks.
Joining a study abroad program not only allows you to travel out of the country and sign up for course work, it teaches you to grow at any age. Four women I shared an apartment with during my time in Italy were the ages of 24, 46, 30 and 27. Each of us had our own experience that changed us unexpectedly. Learning in a classroom environment is required, but what you learn outside of the class is invaluable and can only be uniquely found while studying abroad.
In the United States, the amount of energy a household uses is essentially unlimited. Various lighting throughout each room is turned on everyday, household appliances are constantly running to keep groceries cold, indoor temperatures consistent and laundry clean and dry. At the end of the month, the total is automatically deducted from checking accounts with free online bill pay. In contrast, the Italian government regulates the amount of energy each household may use. Monthly fines can be issued to persons who exceed the limitations. This restriction forces an actual culture change.
Small washers are typical in homes. No more than four bath towels make up a large load. Dryers are considered a luxury. Instead, line drying is very common. Italian wardrobes are small and the quality is valued over quantity as the obsession of constantly looking different and wearing freshly washed attire is absent.
During the day, Italians almost never turn on any lighting. Fixtures with multiple bulbs are missing at least two, and lower watt light bulbs are customary. Instead, windows are made on average 10 feet high to allow for more sunlight. In the evening, candles are often used for smaller tasks such as reading. The instinct of turning on a light when entering a room is missing. Kitchens are not outfitted with dishwashers, garbage disposals or small appliances such as toasters and microwaves. This in part is due to the Italian daily diet and food habits. Breakfast is often consumed outside of the house at a local café, serving various pastries and cappuccino. Lunch is the largest meal of the day consisting of five courses and eaten at home. The feast is carefully prepared using traditional cooking styles from fresh foods and is completely devoured. Dinner is lighter, and going out for a small pizza is very common. These routines don’t require a well-equipped kitchen. Simple pots and pans with minimal chopping utensils and mismatched dishware is all that is needed. And of course, a bidet is more commonly used instead of everyday showers.
The value of energy is observed carefully in Italy, and has shaped a unique lifestyle I have moderately applied in the United States. I say moderately in all honesty. I do enjoy a daily shower, and reheat leftover meals from time to time in a microwave. I will admit, however, that every so often all the lights in my apartment are flipped on. But living in Italy has taught me to be more aware of my habit, and others that cause me to use more energy at home. I can proudly say I do use less energy because of my experience. And I hope to continue with my new habits and cause a bit of inspiration to my local friends and family in Minnesota.
Not only did I grow, I also made new friends, lived in another country, earned college credits and ate a lot of pasta. Each of my roommates and I managed to overcome obstacles to take advantage of the program. No matter where you are in your career or how old you or your children are, if the study abroad opportunity presents itself, just remember that it never hurts to see if you can make it work. I know four women who did, and none of them will ever regret it.