The immersive nature of studying abroad in Siena will be vastly different from my experiences so far because it will allow me to truly integrate into Italian culture, not only by speaking solely in Italian but also by participating in cultural events and experiences. I will take advantage of every opportunity to learn about the people and places of Siena to become familiar with their way of life. This is an opportunity unlike any classroom learning because studying abroad is completely interactive, allowing me to practice the language skills I have learned. Living in Siena will also be different from my other experiences traveling to Italy with my family because I will be more independent, better enabling me to take the initiative to meet and get to know people and travel to new places. While abroad, I hope to focus on learning more about grammar and pronunciation to grow immensely in my Italian language skills. I will work to better my speaking abilities in my daily life abroad to become perfectly fluent and completely immersed in the Italian culture and lifestyle. I am so incredibly excited to embark upon this life-changing experience where I will be able to apply my learning from the classroom. I believe that my greatest growth will be in my confidence level in speaking Italian, especially with natives of Italy. I really hope to be able to communicate in such a way that I will seem integrated into society completely. As my future goal is to become a doctor and work in Italy, this calls for my ability to communicate effectively with native speakers to help meet their needs.