It’s truly remarkable how quickly six weeks in Florence passed by! I had the amazing opportunity to immerse myself in so many valuable experiences and travel around Italy – and I cherished every moment of it!
Through my study abroad program, I have gained a deep understanding of Italian culture, history, art, and cuisine. I took two courses – Urban Studies and Creative Writing – that expanded my knowledge through visits to museums and historical sites. Through CAPA, I was able to attend a cooking class, gelato tour, boat tour on the Arno River, and hike to Monte Ceceri.
Gelato from Sbrino
During my six weeks in Italy, I traveled to Venice, Cinque Terre, Siena, Pisa, Rome, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast with my friends. Traveling to all of these cities offered a unique opportunity to explore the diverse cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes of the country, which turned out to be a vital part of my study abroad experience. I was additionally able to explore the city of Florence every day. I admired the pieces in the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia, walked on the Ponte Vecchio and up to Piazzale Michelangelo, and climbed the steps of the Brunelleschi Dome. I also enjoyed trying so many new foods and flavors at different restaurants and gelato shops.
Ruins of Pompeii
Professionally, my time in Florence enhanced my communication, adaptability, time management, and organizational skills – all of which are essential in the business world. Completely immersing myself into a foreign environment challenged me to handle unfamiliar situations and develop a global perspective. Academically, I gained a deeper appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of art, history, and culture as well as how they intertwine with business and society. Personally, this experience has opened up new perspectives, encouraged independence, and supported my sense of adventure and curiosity.
My key takeaways from studying abroad in Italy are a heightened appreciation for cultural diversity, adaptability, and the importance of embracing new experiences. I learned that understanding and respecting different cultures and perspectives is crucial in such an interconnected world. I have additionally recognized the value of adapting to new environments, being open-minded, and seeking out opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Overall, my study abroad experience in Florence has been transformative both academically and personally. This experience has provided me with many valuable insights and skills that I will carry with me as I continue my education at Pitt Business and beyond.