As my time abroad in Florence draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey I have been able to take part of and the growth that I have experienced along the way. I have explored new cultures, embraced unfamiliar surroundings, and navigated through the ups and downs of global travel. I’ve grown so much through my resilience and adaptability during this journey. It’s shown me how far I’ve come and the person I’ve grown into.
This global experience has been transformative in so many ways. By immersing myself in different cultures and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, I have broadened my perspective and gained a deeper understanding of the world around me. I have learned to appreciate the beauty of diversity, even more than I have before, and the richness it brings to every interaction.
Looking back, there are certainly things I wish I had known at the beginning of this program. I wish I had better prepared myself for the fact that not everything would go according to plan. From pickpocketing to navigating public transportation mishaps, there were challenges along the way that tested my patience and resilience. But through it all, I have learned the importance of staying calm, letting go of expectations, and embracing the journey with an open heart and mind.
One of the most surprising aspects of this global experience has been the way it has challenged and reshaped my perspective. I have been pushed out of my comfort zone, confronted with new experiences, ideas, and ways of life, which has led to me reevaluating my assumptions on numerous experiences and ideas. It’s been both exhilarating and humbling to realize how much there is still to learn about the world and about myself.
If I could offer one piece of advice to my past self, it would be to embrace the journey, both the highs and the lows. Remember that setbacks and challenges are an inevitable part of any traveling adventure, but they don’t define the experience as a whole. I have found myself labeling a trip as bad because of one bad experience, but I am working to change that thought process. Instead, I must focus on finding the good in every new experience and appreciate the memories I will carry with me for a lifetime.
As I prepare to end this chapter of my life, say goodbye to Florence, and return home, I know that this global experience has left a lasting mark on me as a person. I have grown in so many ways, and the lessons I have learned will continue to shape my journey long after my time abroad has come to an end. Because of all the great experiences and knowledge that I have gained on my semester abroad, I do not have a doubt in my mind that I will make traveling a priority in my life!