Having never been out of the country, I knew my adventure had begun when I stepped off the plane in Italy. Closing my eyes, I can still hear the buzzing of vespas zooming by and smell the fresh espresso being brewed. This time last year I decided to journey out of my comfort zone and book a spot on one of National Geographic’s Student Expeditions. From our daily photography sessions, I realized that although the panoramic views and historical architecture were breathtaking, there was something about the people and their passion for the Italian culture that caught my eye.