What fuels your sense of wanderlust? 

For me, it’s travel! Why? Well, it means really experiencing and being a part of the greatest melas the world has ever seen. Not the kind with flashing lights and throbbing music… Well, that too, but I’m talking about the melas woven into the very fabric of history, art, and culture. If you’re still wondering what I’m bubbling on about, allow me to paint a picture. 

This is the tale of three cities; a memoir by and for the Bachelor of Arts students of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences during their Euro Trip at the end of May and early June 2024.

The week leading up to departure was a whirlwind of frantic packing for some, last-minute Italian phrasebook cramming for almost everyone, and a melancholic undercurrent. This was no ordinary trip. We were about to embark on a dream journey through history, culture, and academia, spanning the timeless allure and the iconic streets of Rome, the cosmopolitan charm of the fashion haven that is Milan, and the scholarly oasis of St. Gallen. Yet, a part of us clung to the familiar routine of Strathmore life, the comfort of shared lectures and whispered jokes in between classes.

The Strathmore sun glinted off a sea of suitcases on Monday, May 20th, as 35 BA students thrummed with nervous excitement, loading the bus, some trying to find their friends who had already reserved a seat next to them, and of course, the smiles and giggles drowning camera shutters as they took memorable selfies. Journey mercies from the Chaplain and the driver’s engine rev signalled our departure, and misty-eyed goodbyes to parents and friends. The familiar Strathmore faded in the rearview mirror, replaced by the promise of adventure. 

The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport buzzed with a different kind of energy that evening. It wasn’t the usual flurry of departures and arrivals, but a palpable excitement between the scholars from BA Communications, International Studies, and Development Studies & Philosophy, and staff members accompanying them. As the plane roared down the runway, a strange sense of detachment washed over us. Most of these young scholars were leaving behind a world they knew, a world of late-night study sessions and friendly banter in the cafeteria. Yet, on the horizon, a new world shimmered, a world of rich history and culture waiting to be explored. This was quickly eclipsed by the thrill of the unknown, the promise of adventures waiting to be finely embossed in our memories.

“Tutte le strade portano a Roma” – all roads lead to Rome. This ancient saying felt prophetic as we touched down in the Eternal City. 

As the plane started its gradual descent, a wave of exhilaration swept over us. Rome, the Eternal City, was our first port of call. After an almost 10-hour flight and an almost three-hour layover at Doha, hungrily enjoying whole pizza capricciosas at a local restaurant in San Luigi – Rome, was the perfect way to usher us into the Italian way of life. As some chose to rest that afternoon, others sought adventure… Stepping into the Colosseum felt like stepping onto a movie set – the immense structure hummed with the ghosts of gladiatorial combat and the roar of the crowd. The Roman Forum, bathed in the golden afternoon sun, whispered tales of emperors and senates, each broken pillar a testament to a bygone era. Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain wasn’t just a tourist cliché; it was a ritual, a silent pact with the city to twinkle some of its magic into our lives.

But Rome wasn’t just about dusty ruins and Colosseum battles. We were all scholars, after all, and intellectual pursuits awaited. The following day, Wednesday 22nd May, we were up and early munching on a classic Italian breakfast of cappuccinos and cornetti. The buttery pastries, some filled with custard or jam, paired perfectly with the rich, frothy coffee. Our day kicked off with a lecture on the history of Rome titled “The 5th Mark of the Church – On Becoming Roman Catholic” presented by Patrick, a historian at the Associazione ICEF (Iniziative Culturali, Educative e Familiari). This enlightening session set the tone for our intellectual journey through the Eternal City. We marvelled at the depth of Rome’s history, from its founding by Romulus and Remus, to the seven hills it was built upon. It was interesting to learn that the letters SPQR, an initialism for Senatus Populusque Romanus, is an emblematic phrase referring to the government of the Roman Republic. It appears on documents made public by an inscription in stone or metal, in dedications of monuments and public works, and on some Roman currency. Did you know Rome became the capital city of Italy in 1870? 

As the day progressed, meeting Monsignor Fernando Ocáriz Braña, Strathmore’s Chancellor, at the Santa Maria della Pace: the prelatic church of Opus Dei, became such a top-tier highlight of this trip. Santa Maria della Pace is the Marian invocation to which the prelate church of Opus Dei in Rome is dedicated. On December 31, 1959, Saint Josemaría Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei and Strathmore University, celebrated the first Mass in Santa Maria della Pace. Mons. Fernando’s words, imbued with wisdom and passion, ignited a fire within us – a fire to carry the torch of excellence, to use education to make a positive impact on the world. 

Of course it wouldn’t be a trip by scholars studying diplomacy if we did not pay a courtesy homage to our home away from home. A few intense steps right after blessings from our Chancellor, and connecting through the immaculate metro system of Italy, we alighted at Milano Lambrate in Rome and walked a short distance to the Kenyan Embassy. If it wasn’t clear before, this definitely solidified the role of these scholars as cultural ambassadors.

The next day, our journey took us to the Pontificia Università della Santa Croce, where we were welcomed by the Dean of the School of Communication, Daniel Arasa. The young scholars attended lectures on early Christianity and European integration, which provided a profound understanding of Rome’s historical and contemporary significance… an integration that came alive in the passionate voices of professors, painting a vivid picture of Rome’s profound influence that stretched far beyond its city walls. A short tour of the University and a quick group photo at the rooftop, with the majestic cityscape in the background, followed by lunch in the picturesque Apollinare courtyard was a delightful interlude, before we continued our exploration of Rome’s cultural treasures… This time, the Vatican! 

Guided by the richly passionate voice of Fr. John Wauck, our Vatican guide, over an in person audio tour broadcast, we marvelled at the artistry of the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, with its magnificent dome which was designed by Michelangelo. Learning about the Basilica’s history, including its construction over Saint Peter’s tomb and its role as a major pilgrimage site, definitely enriched our appreciation of its significance. The sheer scale and artistry of The Basilica, with its soaring dome and intricate mosaics, is a testament to human ingenuity. The Raphael Rooms, four grand chambers, originally the private apartments of Pope Julius II, are adorned with frescoes painted by Raphael and his students. The rooms, known as the Stanze di Raffaello, include the Room of the Signatura, with the famous “School of Athens,” showcasing an assembly of classical philosophers. Each room tells a unique story, blending religious themes with Renaissance humanism. Fr. John Wauck brought the scenes to life, explaining the significance of each masterpiece and Raphael’s innovative techniques. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes were no longer just reproductions in textbooks and television shows; they were breathtaking masterpieces that spoke to the depths of the human soul, each detail more breathtaking than the last. Later, some of us indulged in gelato as we strolled through Rome’s picturesque streets, savouring every moment, excited to create even more.

Friday in Rome wasn’t just your everyday kind of Friday… It was exciting in a both exhilarating and inspiring way. After enjoying an insightful visit to the Pontifical Gregorian University in the morning, an experience that offered our young scholars a unique opportunity to explore the significant contributions of this historic institution to theological and philosophical education, we headed to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations! This would be our final academic visit of the Roman leg. Here, we would ponder over a global challenge – food security. In an immersive manner, we would witness the organisation’s dedication to tackling hunger and resonate deeply with the need for a sharp focus on global food security and sustainable agriculture. This tour had provided a deeper understanding of FAO’s critical role in combating hunger and promoting sustainable practices worldwide.

From the ancient clasp of Rome, we packed the bus and took on the almost 10-hour road trip, filled with chatter and laughter, into the vibrant present of Milan. In all its glory, Milan’s elegance greeted us warmly. This city was a sensory overload – a treasure trove of fashion, art, and design. After a morning lecture at the beautiful Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore on ‘Philosophical Traditions’, we scaled the majestic Duomo di Milano, the city sprawled beneath us in a stunning panorama. I had to descend and admire it from a different view. Standing before this massive structure, I was immediately struck by its grandeur and intricate Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s stunning façade, adorned with countless statues and spires, left me in awe. The plaza was full of life, as tourists and locals alike marvelled at the beauty around them. Friendly pigeons fluttered about, landing gently on outstretched hands, adding to the lively atmosphere. A few steps from the Duomo, The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a temple of luxury with its glass-domed walkways teeming with boutiques, high-end shops and charming cafes, was a feast for the eyes. Here, no one could leave without buying a stylish scarf, a keychain, a necklace, and many other memorabilia, as souvenirs. After all, we were in the fashion capital of the world! This blend of historical magnificence and vibrant energy created an unforgettable experience, making me feel connected to both the past and the present of Milan. 

That late afternoon, while some went shopping, I found myself staring at Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” admiring the artistic mind that was Leonardo’s. I was in a tourism frenzy and The Brera Art Gallery continued to feed this cultural appetite. We later randomly met with a couple of students, after their shopping spree, in the lively Navigli district, with its canals and vibrant ambiance. The perfect ending to the day and the Milan leg.

Another 6-hour road trip from Milan to Switzerland ensued the morning after. A picturesque journey to St. Gallen, movie scenes can’t even re-enact. The scenery quickly transformed from urban landscapes to serene topography. The rolling hills and verdant meadows were dotted with charming farmhouses and grazing livestock. As we gently pierced through the peacefulness of the Swiss countryside, the majestic Alps rose in the distance, their snow-capped peaks glistening against the clear blue sky. The road itself was simply beautiful, winding smoothly through tunnels and over bridges, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

Switzerland’s St. Gallen offered a serene contrast to the whirlwind of Milan. Nestled amidst rolling green hills, it was a haven of tranquillity. The University of St. Gallen’s electric lectures such as one on “Switzerland’s position within the framework of the European Union”, a tour of the University including the library was a poetic fulfilment of what scholars say; St. Gallen really is a scholarly haven. As I flipped pages on ancient manuscripts and leather-bound tomes, my epiphany at the time; I held, in my hands, right there, the weight of centuries of knowledge. And it is here, amidst the scent of old parchment and the hushed whispers of turning pages, SHSS BA EuroTrip 2024 reached its peaceful conclusion. All that was left now was making spaces in our suitcases for as much chocolate as we could carry!

The farewell dinner was a bittersweet affair. We raised a toast to Dr. Dimba, the Dean of SHSS as it was her birthday, and more toasts to memories we had made through the ancient but picturesque Rome, the fashionable displays of Milan, and the tranquil wisdom of St. Gallen. This trip had been more than ticking off landmarks on a map; it had been about budding friendships that would transcend so much, expanding our worldviews, and returning home with a renewed sense of purpose. The hashtag #BAEuroTrip2024 wouldn’t just be a memory on social media; it would be a permanent inscription in our hearts, a reminder of the transformative power of travel and learning. Strathmore’s Euro Trip had shown us the power of stepping outside our comfort zones, embracing new cultures, and returning with a thirst to make a difference. We were #GoingPlacesWithSU, and the world was our classroom!

This article was written by Kabutu Francis.