My time here in Vicenza has been partially what I expected. Nonetheless, it's also been a little more strenuous than I thought it would be, but that's actually been a great thing. The amount I've learned in such a short time has made me much more confident in my architectural knowledge. It's also helped me realize that my architectural preferences, what I like and don't like, used to feel subjective, but now they're becoming more grounded in knowledge.
Learning about classical rules and orders and being able to connect them to postmodern and contemporary styles has been incredibly transformative. I can't wait to start my professional career and apply all the lessons I am gaining from this trip, not just from the places we're seeing but even more from the teaching team.
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The hardest part of this experience, I think, has been learning new ways of living. Knowing that if I want to eat, wash my clothes, or do anything time-consuming, I have to be organized and plan ahead. For example, if I need a specific ingredient to cook something, I have to make sure I get it the day I go grocery shopping for the week, since the closest supermarket is a 17-minute walk away. The same goes for getting materials for models and other necessities. This is the one thing I didn't think about coming in to the program. I figured it would be like in Eugene, however I am not complaining. I believe that it is making me a lot more self-reliant and self-sufficient and it makes me really happy with myself.
I think that my identity and the fact that I can also speak Spanish has made my experience a lot easier. I've noticed that many people here understand Spanish more than English. Also, meeting South American people and being able to have short conversations with them always makes me feel closer to home. One of my roommates found an Asian market and when we went, I was pleasantly surprised to find Peruvian goods and spices. I've actually been cooking Peruvian foods even more here than I usually do in Eugene.
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At this point in the trip, I've realized that while there are a lot of great and fulfilling moments, it's also very challenging. The architecture program I chose gives us the opportunity to travel around Italy and analyze spaces and architecture through hand media. It's a been a real test of my endurance and patience, but I'm starting to notice that sketching is becoming easier. I'm also learning to ignore tiny imperfections and focus on the big picture and communicating that through my sketches.
Like I said, the tight schedule has also pushed me to become more efficient and concise, not only in drawing and designing but also in daily responsibilities. This is a major benefit for me because I used to be really bad at time management. Now, knowing that I have so many more important things I want to spend my time on, I've become much more organized and motivated. I'm really looking forward to seeing how this translates when I get back to Eugene.
Overall, being here has shown me how incredible and grand life can be. The people of this country live among the remains of one of the most prolific empires ever. Their daily commutes in some cities are made on vaporettos over the canals of Venice. Some pass by the Colosseum on the bus. Others walk through the main square in Florence as if it's the most normal thing in the world, which is simply mind-blowing to me. This has led me to reflect on a more personal level and realize why so many people found it odd that I didn't visit Machu Picchu until I was 16, even though it's in the same city I was raised in, and how I should be more appreciative of my rich culture and the privilege of living among the ruins and remains of another prolific empire.
Faviana Marcela Olaguibel Roca, Diverse Ducks Ambassador