If you were to ask me what I miss most about living in America, I would immediately reply with my dog, family and friends — probably in that order. Beyond that, I might say working Wi-Fi, affordable peanut butter and insulated buildings, depending on the day.
However, it isn’t the material possessions or even the people left behind I find myself yearning for, but the solace and comfortability of life in America.
After arriving in Italy, I was struck by just how much I took living in the U.S. for granted and the rights that citizenship there affords a person.
This isn’t a homesick feeling necessarily, but more of an appreciation for the place I had the good fortune of being born in. I never realized just how attached I was to American culture until I suddenly wasn’t surrounded by it.
Prior to my departure, I was told studying abroad can provide a variety of new perspectives. Yet, I was still so surprised to find myself learning more about my home country, rather than myself.
Compared to American health standards, Italians don’t seem as concerned with their personal health as Americans do, and it is evident by how many continue to use tobacco products, despite knowing the risks involved, even at very young ages.
Granted, there are things in Italy that the U.S. should take note on, such as their recycling system, which is not only in-depth, but mandatory. Don’t adhere to the guidelines and you will be fined.
Most Italian cities also have an extensive public transit system, allowing for cheap, eco-friendly travel. However, these methods of transportation are often hotbeds for petty crimes like pickpocketing — a phenomenon not entirely uncommon in the U.S.
The differences might be very basic and general, but as I dove deeper into both countries, the contrasts between the two are very stark, especially in terms of safety.
I have never questioned my personal welfare more than I have while traveling overseas.
The first bouts of this realization came about after receiving a presentation from the U.S. Embassy in Rome about our new rights, or lack thereof, in Italy.
We were told a variety of different, helpful information, but the thing that stuck with me the most was related to drinking.
In Italy, our presenter told us a bartender can continue to serve patrons until they are well past their limit, even if that means feeding them drinks until the point of alcohol poisoning. As long as a person can pay, there is no need to cut them off.
If any illegal or inappropriate behavior happens on their premises, such as sexual assault or battery, they are not responsible.
The presenter went on to tell us that even if someone is sick in the streets, bystanders most likely won’t do anything for them, nor will cabs help take them home, out of fear that they might dirty their vehicle.
I was shocked after hearing this, as were several others in my abroad program. Although, public intoxication is more taboo in Italy, I would have thought people would still be willing to help someone in need, especially when their life might be on the line.
The U.S. may have its problems with alcohol consumption, which is evident throughout history, but at least people are held liable for their actions and there are precautions set in place to aid those who require it.
Despite its many shortcomings, I don’t think it gets much better than the U.S. and time spent outside of the country can only prove that — it has for me.
Olivia Heersink can be reached at [email protected]