Traveling to Italy this winter for two weeks with Brother Berger and my classmates was an experience I will cherish forever. Not only was this my first time in Europe, but it was also my first time leaving the United States. From the moment my passport was stamped, I realized I was stepping into an entirely new world. What made this trip so special was that it was not just about traveling, but about learning, growing, and building connections in ways that could never happen inside a classroom.
Each day brought new opportunities to learn through experience; whether it was navigating the streets of historic cities, learning about art and architecture that has shaped centuries of history, or simply sharing laughs with classmates after long days of walking. Being immersed in Italian culture allowed me to appreciate how deeply history, faith, and daily life are intertwined. I found myself constantly reflecting on how much richer learning becomes when you are physically present in the places you study.
Out of all the days we spent in Italy, January 7th stands out as the most memorable. That morning, we attended a Papal audience and were blessed by Pope Leo, an experience that was both humbling and deeply meaningful. Knowing that I was standing in the presence of such an influential religious leader, in a place that holds immense significance for millions of people around the world, is something I will never forget. It was a powerful reminder of the global impact of faith and tradition.
After leaving Casa La Salle, we boarded a bus and made our way into Rome. As we arrived, we were surrounded by breathtaking sights, including views of the Duomo and Vatican City. Walking through the sixth audience hall to reach our seats felt surreal, as we were literally moving through layers of history. The moment of the blessing itself felt calm and reflective, giving me time to truly take in where I was and what the moment represented.
Following the audience, we visited the Vatican Museums with Brother Robert serving as our guide. His knowledge and passion brought the artwork and history to life. Seeing world-famous masterpieces in person (works that I had only ever seen in textbooks or online) was eye-opening. Even though we were unable to photograph the artwork, that almost made the experience more meaningful, forcing us to be fully present and absorb every detail. From the architecture to the artwork, every space told a story of faith, power, and creativity spanning centuries.
We then made our way to Saint Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world and the resting place of many popes. Standing inside such a massive and sacred space was overwhelming in the best way possible. The scale, detail, and history of the basilica made me reflect on how much dedication and belief went into its creation. It was moments like these that truly made history feel alive rather than distant.
Throughout the rest of the trip, visiting historic landmarks, churches, and cultural sites deepened my appreciation for Italy’s role in shaping Western civilization. Whether learning about ancient ruins, religious traditions, or the daily life of the people around us, every experience added another layer to my understanding of the world. This trip helped me realize how important it is to step outside of your comfort zone in order to grow.
The Major John H. Mark, Jr. ’00 program was vital in enhancing my experience, allowing me to fully immerse myself in everything the trip had to offer. Because of this opportunity, I was able to live the experience to its fullest, just as Major John H. Mark Jr. would have wanted. After getting a taste of international travel, I now feel inspired to continue exploring the world and learning firsthand about the history, culture, and people of different places.
I am incredibly grateful to Brother Robert Berger for being an exceptional teacher, guide, and mentor throughout this journey. His energy, knowledge, and enthusiasm truly shaped the experience and made learning enjoyable every step of the way. I am also thankful for my classmates, whose kindness, humor, and support made these two weeks even more special. As my first, and unfortunately last, study abroad experience, this trip was truly unforgettable, and I will carry the memories, lessons, and friendships with me forever.
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