The Result of Intentional Community
Keara had never been out of the country when she heard about Living & Learning’s summer internship programs and began emailing Bethany to learn more about spending a summer in Italy. She hadn’t even flown that much in her life, but as her questions were answered, and she chatted with her family, everyone agreed that this was a great opportunity. She got advice from her uncle about booking her flight, and set off to spend two months at an internship in Rome.
Keara Took the Bold Step
While she was flying into the country, she was surprised to see how green and beautiful the landscape was. She was the furthest away from home she had ever been, she didn’t know anyone else going to this summer program, and she thought to herself, “okay, it’s you and me, God!” Feeling like she was in a whole new world was a big deal, but what ended up surprising her most was the friendships she made.
Living & Learning’s Heart for Rich Community
Whether you’re spending a semester abroad or away, a summer internship, or a short term trip with Living & Learning, intentional community is at the core of every program. Our semester students have resident coordinators living with them, offering them discipleship and guidance within their community groups. We believe in “life-on-life” community, sharing meals together, going out adventures, and simply laughter in the kitchen and playing cards around the coffee table.
Our summer interns get the same type of intentional community living and have their resident coordinators pouring into them during their two months abroad while being involved in their local community through their internship. Those who join us for a short term trip also the opportunity to dive deep with their team, guided by their faculty member and L&LI host.
The Closest and Fastest Friendships I’ve Ever Made
Keara went to a big high school and a big university, so she says that relating to one another through deep conversations with a new friend is not something she was used to. But regardless, she found the quickest relationships she’s ever made during her summer in Rome.
Her new found friends shared her spirit of adventure, they connected over small things and dove into faith-focused conversations together. They explored the ancient sites of Rome and the artistic culture of Florence together. Then, from riding Lime scooters across the city to learning Italian phrases from the staff at the convent (the housing provided for our Rome students), and everything between, moments throughout the summer solidified the connection Keara had cultivated with her new friends.
Now, these friends have a “pick up where we left off” relationship.
Overcoming the uncertainty of a big, bold step was well worth it for Keara, and as unique as her friendships are, their experiences and stories are like that of many L&LI alumni. She said “yes!” to something new, began her journey with a “it’s me and you, God” mindset, and came out with memories and connections that will last her well beyond her two month internship in Italy.
If you’d like to learn more about spending a summer in Rome, Quito, or on the East Coast, visit our pages or reach out to us!