Hello, fellow adventurers! My name is Isabelle de Klerk, but you can call me Izzy. I'm a 19-year-old African American woman, and my pronouns are she/her. I am a Business major at the University of Oregon and I want to share my experiences and reflections with you as I embark on my study abroad journey in Siena, Italy this Spring term. As of right now, I have been in Italy for 2 weeks and have already experienced so much!
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Before setting foot in Italy, I had a lot of questions swirling around in my head. Being a Black woman, I knew that it was essential to understand the cultural norms, especially regarding how Italians act, dress, and interact with each other. As much as I was eager to immerse myself in this new environment, I also knew that I had to be cautious. Unfortunately, the reality is that there are places where I might not "fit in," and it's crucial to be aware of people's intentions and opinions, especially as a woman of color in a foreign country.
Studying in Siena, where there is a close-knit and safe community, did help ease some of my initial concerns. The city's walkability and the surrounding wall provided a sense of security for me. However, I still remain vigilant and mindful of tourist traps, scams, and the potential for harassment. I believe that it is essential to approach each new experience with open expectations, understand that cultural differences exist, and adapt accordingly.
Upon my arrival in Siena to begin the Food, Culture, and Sustainability program, I was immediately struck by the city's beauty and the locals' appreciation for the slow life. Unlike the hustle and bustle of American culture, here, time seemed to move at a gentler pace. Italian people value savoring moments and taking breaks without the guilt of unproductivity which is a stark contrast to the "time is money" mentality that I am accustomed to in the US.
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All this to say, I have really enjoyed my time so far but of course, no journey comes without its challenges. Traveling here there was a sudden change in weather that diverted my flight heading towards Florence to Bologna instead, resulting in a frantic rush to reach Siena for orientation and our welcome dinner. Navigating the transportation system proved tricky initially, with mapping apps leading us astray. But, as a group, we quickly learned to trust our instincts and find alternative routes, overcoming many obstacles along the way.
Despite the beauty and charm of Siena that I love so much, there have been many moments that have caught me off guard. The biggest one of them was the subtle racial tensions and encounters that stem from and are directed at the increasing number of African immigrants here. I cannot say that it hasn’t left me feeling uneasy. I receive strange looks and even have unfortunately faced derogatory remarks which is a very clear reminder of the realities faced by Black individuals everywhere, even in seemingly idyllic settings.
As the only Black person in my program, these experiences were unexpected and honestly challenging to navigate. While the positive moments have definitely overshadowed the negative, I think that it is crucial to acknowledge and address these issues. I wish someone had warned me about the potential racial encounters, allowing me to prepare myself better both mentally and emotionally.
Reflecting on these first few weeks of my study abroad journey, I've learned valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity. To fellow students with similar identities, I encourage you to embrace each experience with an open mind, but also to prioritize your safety and well-being. Surround yourself with a supportive community, educate yourself on local customs, and understand that someone's ignorant and objective ideas about you are not a reflection of who you truly are as a person.
As I continue my adventure in Siena, I look forward to embracing the challenges and opportunities that come my way, knowing that each experience will shape me in ways I never imagined.
Until next time, Ciao!
By Isabelle de Klerk, Diverse Ducks Ambassador
Food, Culture, and Sustainability in Siena, Spring 2024