It is so unbelievable to think that my time in Florence is at its end. It’s been nothing short of life-changing in the best (and toughest) way. Arriving home and reflecting on my semester has been a complete whirlwind. I have grown so much since January and I owe it to studying abroad this semester and all of the challenges that this came with.
As I assimilate back home, the change in myself I start to see is in phases and slow realizations. I love the life that I created in Florence and I am going to miss it so dearly. In my life, I have never felt so independent and strong willed. If there was something I wanted to see, do, etc. – I go for it. I no longer wait for someone else to want to do it too. This experience has opened my eyes and broadened my perspective to how short life really is, and how massive the world is. Prior to this experience, I had traveled here and there, but absolutely nothing like I have in the past three months.
Looking back on my expectations for this semester, I could never have imagined things would have gone the way that they did. I knew, in theory, that studying abroad would be life changing and I would find parts of myself that I never imagined. This in theory and this in practice is completely different. In my real life, all of the skills that I have developed and refined will prove themselves to be very useful. To name a few, adaptability, problem solving, critical thinking, cultural awareness and so, so many more.
Looking back on when I was uncertain about studying abroad, it is laughable to think that I ever imagined this semester to go any differently. I was so apprehensive back in October when I was uncertain about my passport, my deposits, my classes, etc. There were so many times where I had debated or questioned studying abroad this semester, and now I cannot see my time being spent any other way.
When asked if I would recommend future business students to study abroad, it is an obvious yes. I feel so beyond grateful for this opportunity and I wish that every single student who wanted to had the ability to study abroad, because I am extremely thankful for this semester and for Pitt Business for the opportunity of a lifetime. From living in Italy, to sightseeing in France, and afternoon tea in London — one day, I will get to tell my future kids about this semester.
