As I stroll through Florentine streets and travel to cities around Europe, I learn new things about history, the world, and myself. I have loved studying in Florence because there is something new to admire at every corner, something that has stood the test of time. However, navigating a global city has not been all leisure and luxury. I have had to learn to adapt in cross cultural situations, facing uncomfortable circumstances each day. But it has been this awkwardness that has forced me to step out of my comfort zone and have the immersive study abroad experience that I hoped for.

I spoke in previous blog posts about the difficulties of the language barrier . Recently I have been more aware of what I can take away from each of the interactions I share with the local Italians. Being raised in an Italian-American family, I was very excited to fall back into my roots in Italy and experience my own culture firsthand. Living in Italy for these past few months has taught me more about myself and where I come from. Traditions and dishes my family holds dear are versions of that of local Italians’, and I have enjoyed getting to connect to some Italians through our small cultural similarities. Despite my attempted Italian, each slight conversation leaves me both angry I cannot communicate with them better and motivated to learn the language.

Although I am not interning while I am here in Florence, I have formed some of my own professional connections while I am here. As an ambassador for Remake, a global non-profit fighting for climate justice in the fashion industry, I had the opportunity to meet with Italian ambassadors and attend events with them. I attended a premiere even in Milan for the documentary series JUNK, which exposes the unjust side of the textile industry. I was glad to meet fellow ambassadors and exist in a setting overflowing with people of similar passions as I, despite the inherent boundaries between us. The event was a prime networking opportunity–that is if I could speak Italian. However, instead of dwelling in the fact that I was the only American, I focused on being present and appreciative of the opportunity. I will carry with me this event and the confidence it gave me forward into my career.

Additionally, I formed a lovely bond with a local Florentine vintage clothing seller at the Sant’ Ambrogio Market. I will visit her booth from time to time to model staple pieces for her social media account. It has been lovely to work with her and help her business. Surprisingly, I have learned more than just modeling tips from Daniella. Through this connection, I have picked up on Italian cultural values, like body image confidence and acceptance and the importance of both quality and sustainability in clothing.