Hi! I’m Payton Cornetti, a junior at the University of Pittsburgh’s College of Business Administration. I am currently living in beautiful Florence, Italy, as part of the University of Pittsburgh’s GBI Florence study abroad program through CEA CAPA. The Global Business Institute (GBI) has given me a fantastic chance to dive into the international business world, offering a change from my usual academic routine in the United States.

In my current classes, I’m exploring a mix of subjects, including International Finance, Introduction to Oil Painting, Renaissance Art History, and Italian: Here and Now. Each week, I learn more about these topics, with most classes lasting 2 hours and 50 minutes, except for my Italian course, which meets three times a week for 50 minutes. While my main focus is on business studies, I’m enjoying the chance to explore other interests that might not directly tie into my Finance and Accounting majors but that make me a more well-rounded student overall.

Succeeding in the academic environment while abroad takes time management and self-discipline skills. It’s very tempting to spend all your time traveling or only focusing on having as much fun as you possibly can, but staying on top of your studies and taking care of yourself is very important, especially in a new environment. Getting into a good study routine, making sure you’re getting enough rest, and fueling your body with healthy food are all essential. It’s all about finding a balance between embracing the new experiences and keeping up with your coursework.

One significant difference I’ve noticed is the longer class times compared to what I’m used to in the US. It can be tough to stay focused for such a long period of time, but having fewer classes each week allows me more time to understand the material before I meet with the class again. I enjoy being able to spend separate days focusing on a single subject and completing my homework for the upcoming week.

Another aspect I enjoy is the way our courses blend with the local community. Whether we’re engaging in conversations with market vendors during Italian class or immersing ourselves in the world of Renaissance art firsthand, our learning extends far beyond the walls of the classroom. The support and warmth from both GBI Florence and CEA CAPA staff have made the transition smooth, despite the language barriers and cultural adjustments in my new environment. Overall, this experience has been incredible. It’s opened my eyes to new perspectives and given me a deeper understanding of global business practices and different cultures. As I continue to explore Florence, I’m excited to see what else I’ll discover, both academically and personally.