Ciao! I am thrilled to share another update from my time here in Florence! The past few weeks have been very exciting and jam packed with exploration, study, and travel. Today I will be giving you a glimpse into my experiences within the classroom as a student in the Global Business Institute.

I am currently taking four classes this semester: International Finance, Exploring and Analyzing the Global City, Renaissance Art History, and Italian. These classes feel like the missing puzzle piece of my academic experience, offering a range of subjects that allow me venture beyond my business focus.

These courses are not just about hitting the books; it’s about embracing the Italian language in everyday life and fully immersing myself in the culture. In Italian class, I find myself learning to have conversations with locals and even singing songs to practice my conjugations. Picture studying art history while standing in front of Michelangelo’s David or admiring Renaissance paintings in the Uffizi. The opportunity to analyze the urban dynamics of Florence, a city steeped in history and innovation, is equally as interesting. It’s a chance to look at how people interact with their urban environment and to understand the rich legacy of the Renaissance.

I have noticed that the most important skill needed to be successful in this academic environment is to be curious and ask questions. Many of the topics covered in class are entirely new to me, and active participation in discussions has helped me deepen my understanding. The longer class times and smaller class sizes create an environment where professors and students engage in discussions, rather than traditional lectures.

I am looking forward to the blend of classroom and out-of-classroom learning that lies ahead this semester. From field study days exploring parts of Florence to new discussions in class, I am excited to continue my education abroad. Stay tuned for more updates.