My name is Bella Hilden and this summer I studied abroad in Rome, Italy at the University of Cattolica. I spent six weeks living in the heart of Rome along with 25 other MSU students studying Human Biology. During the program, we learned about ligand docking on proteins, stem cells, nanoparticles, and the structure of Eukaryotic cells.

While I was there, I spent the first week learning about the history of Rome by participating in tours of the Roman Forum, Colosseum, and learning how to cook signature dishes from different parts of Italy. Our program even set up some survival Italian classes for us. After that, we felt excited every time we ordered our “cornetto al ciocolato e cappuccino doppio” every morning in the cafe before class. I was also able to visit the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the Mouth of Truth.

For the other five weeks, we would take the train to Universita Cattolica each morning where we participated in lectures and virtual labs. To provide a learning experience outside the classroom, we visited a more suburban part of Rome and learned about the health of less fortunate populations.

I was also fortunate to visit other cities and countries while overseas. I took a train to Pisa and toured the famous Tower of Pisa. I also took a train to Sorrento and visited the beautiful Amalfi coast which included Capri and Positano. Outside of Italy, I visited Dubrovnik Croatia, Prague Czech Republic, and Mykonos Greece.

I remember the day of my arrival to Italy vividly. I was terrified when my parents dropped me off at the airport to fly to the other side of the world alone. As soon as I arrived in Rome, all of those worries quickly melted away.

I had never been to Europe before or even traveled by myself. When I joined the group of other MSU students, I quickly felt at home. We spent days walking every inch of Rome and soaking in the beautiful sights. I miss the smell of pasta, the waiters calling me into their restaurants, and gelato on every corner. I enjoyed spending my evenings after class trying traditional Italian food and exploring the city. The architecture was so unlike the US, and every building was beautiful, whether it was a famous monument or a post office.

I learned many things from this culture (besides the fact that I shouldn’t drink cappuccino after 12 pm). I learned that each country had different equipment and methods of researching medicine, people are excited when you attempt to communicate in their native language (even if you aren’t good at it), and to step out of my comfort zone so I can make friends even if I am nervous.

I feel as though there are a lot of scary “myths” about studying abroad like “you will be completely alone” or “nobody will understand you or speak English.” In my program, I lived with other MSU students, and in other programs you will research or take classes with your peers. You will have plenty of opportunities to branch out and make connections while abroad. Also, during my visits to different countries while abroad, every country knew English. While there were no language barriers for me, people were happy when we took the extra step to learn common phrases in their language.

Studying biology abroad in Rome offered me a transformative experience that impacted me academically, personally, and professionally.

Academically, the opportunity provides exposure to global perspectives in biological sciences through diverse teaching methods and unique research opportunities, while integrating cultural and historical contexts into studies.

Personally, living in Rome allowed cultural immersion, and resilience through navigating a new environment independently. It promotes personal growth and confidence, crucial attributes for effective healthcare providers.

Professionally, the experience enhances cultural competence and expands international networks, interesting me favorably in a globalized healthcare landscape. It will potentially open doors to research collaborations or job opportunities.

Overall, studying biology in Rome equipped me as a future physician assistant, with a broader perspective, language skills, and a nuanced understanding of global health issues, preparing me to excel in diverse healthcare settings. I feel comfortable venturing to different countries, and I hope to practice medicine in Europe one day.

Before I came to MSU, I was a first-generation college student from a low-income family and had no idea what I was doing. I knew about studying abroad, but I never thought I would be financially capable. My sophomore year at MSU, the First-generation Leadership and Innovation scholars group (FLI) was created. This group made my dreams come true in many aspects during my studies at MSU. I will forever be grateful for the personal and academic growth I have experienced because FLI and other donors opened the doors for me to study abroad. My life is forever changed, and I am grateful for all of the generous people that have made this possible for me.

Name: Bella Hilden
Status: Senior
Major: Human Biology
Hometown: Warren, Michigan
Program: Human Biology Summer in Rome