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Since I returned from studying Art in Italy, I have been asked several times by other students "Why would you want to study abroad?", "Why study Art?" or "Don't you like Auburn?" Of course I like Auburn, but the opportunity to study abroad and be exposed to so much the world was an opportunity I could not decline. Through Auburn Engineering's Birdsong Study Abroad Scholarship, I was able to live and study fine art in Florence, Italy for six months. I was even able set aside six weeks between summer and fall terms to travel Western Europe – Switzerland, Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Ireland, Sweden and even a bit of Africa. Art has always been a passion of mine and while studying in Florence, I was able to not only immerse myself in art history, but also further develop my own artistic abilities. Because college is such an intense experience, it is easy for college students to begin to define themselves by their majors or their intended career paths. However, one’s vocation is only one of the things that contribute to a quality life. Auburn's study abroad program and the Birdsong scholarship enabled me to step back from my intended vocation for a brief period and indulge myself in two of my passions - art and travel. I have no doubt that I will always view my time studying abroad as an experience that broadened my horizons and enriched my life.