36 days and counting!

In about 36 days, I will be boarding a plane, flying over the atlantic ocean overnight, and landing in Rome. I couldn't be more anxious.

Hi Everybody! My name is Siobhan Lavery and I am a junior at Saint Michael's College. Come January, I will be leaving the comforts of Colchester, Vermont, and will be heading over to Italy to both study and participate in service learning. I will be sharing my experience with you online, and hope that you enjoy what you read!

Here is a little about me: I am an elementary education and psychology major who originally resides from Connecticut. Basically, I would love to finger paint for the rest of my life :). When I am abroad I will be working on my honors independent research project in psychology by studying inclusion within the Italian classroom. I'm really intrigued to see what inclusion is like overseas, and can't wait to learn more! On campus, I like to stay busy and involved to do as much as I can for the school. I am a part of the MOVE program where I run Special Events and am a big sister for a third grade student at a local elementary school. MOVE also runs extended service trips, where you can choose to go on an alternative break and work with organizations all over the country. I went to Hartford, Connecticut during my freshman year, and last year was honored to participate in the international trip to the Dominican Republic. The trip to the DR is the true reason I am participating in service abroad. I am also the secretary for the junior class, where I also sit on the programming committee. This committee is a lot of fun, and we got to plan many different events for students on campus- its a lot of work but has lots of rewards! During my sophomore year, I went on the LEAP retreat, a spiritual retreat on campus, and then was a team member later that same year. For the first time this year, I helped welcome freshman to school by being an orientation leader, which was a super experience. I also am on the committee for Fix It With Five, a new committee dedicated to creating systemic and long-term changes in the community, whether it be local or at large. Saint Michael's is a place that offers many opportunities to get involved, and that I have been able to take advantage of. The feeling of security I get at home is one that makes me nervous to leave, but also confident that I will be able to be successful abroad.

Going abroad is something that I have always wanted to do, despite the challenges I know it will present. I can't wait to be immersed in a completely different country, learning about the Italian culture and the ways in which I can apply service abroad. Granted, I am SO nervous about being away from home, but I am also excited for the growing opportunities this will provide me with. I can't wait to hear all of your comments, and to share my experiences with you. Please read about all of my adventures, and let me know if there is anything you would like to hear! Happy reading- I'll send an update soon :)