🌸Hirodai Ambassador [Study Abroad News] Izumi Ota, 4th year student, Faculty of Education No.3

Hirodai Ambassador Activity Report

Faculty of Education, 4th year  (I.e. Spring  San

[Study abroad destination]University of Turin (Italy)
[Study abroad period] August 2023 to January 9.
[Type of study abroad] Long-term study abroad at a partner university

 

OctoberThis month marks the end of my life in Turin, as I am studying abroad this semester. I have had so many different experiences and it feels like time has flown by in the blink of an eye. 

Well, the university Italian course isClasses ended in December and there was a final exam. I was taking a beginner's course and the teacher spoke English with an Italian accent.However, the content was interesting and I feel that I was able to complete the class very happily.

However, one thing that was difficult was that there were many Latin students in my course, such as those from Spain, France, and Portugal, and I found it difficult to take classes with them, even though it is relatively easy to learn Italian. had.

However, such experiences also motivated me to study, and I think it turned out to be a good thing.
Also, the teacher was very considerate of me as I was the only Asian in the class, and was very accommodating, asking me questions like ``How do you say this in Japanese?'' during class.
 

 

The classroom where classes are held is in a relatively new building, and there are many cafes and restaurants nearby. It is crowded with students and locals every day. 

 

Next, I will introduce you to Italian culture. One of the things that is essential to life in Italy is a bar.
I think the word "bar" means "cafe" in Japanese, but its role is not limited to just cafes. Bars are basically open early in the morning and serve people cheap and delicious coffee. It is also a place to have casual conversations and exchange greetings.

Furthermore, there are basically no public toilets in Italy, and of course there are no convenience stores, so if you want to use the restroom in the city, you have to stop at a bar. In that case, you can use it for free, but you might order a 1-euro coffee (espresso served in a small cup) just like you would buy something after using the toilet at a convenience store in Japan. 

Also, the bar staff are very Italian and very friendly, making you want to visit every day.
People like it when I tell them I'm from Japan, so I enjoy talking to them and it always warms my heart.
 

There are three basic types of coffee: espresso, macchiato, and cappuccino. You can drink it for between 1 and 1.5 euros.
Also served with croissants and small biscuits. During breakfast time, I see many customers eating croissants with their coffee.
In the morning, everyone stays for a short time. I think the style of eating and paying while standing at the counter and immediately heading off to work or to the next location is typical of Italians who use bars.
 

 Just looking at the crowbar showcase will make you happy. 

I would like to cherish the time I have left and spend my time abroad paying attention to my safety and health.