Coming into college, studying abroad was always an important element in my higher education experience. The constant change and progression has left me with valuable insights and experiences that I will carry with me following the dissolution of this program and the incoming end of my education journey.
During my time in the program, I have grown to appreciate my own company more. Living in a new country is overwhelming, especially in a setting knowing very few people. Alone time is very limited when you are living in an apartment with eight girls and traveling constantly over the weekends. I found that doing things on my own, like visiting a museum, can sometimes be daunting, however, I have learned to cherish the limited time I have by myself. This past week, it was a very rainy day, we did not have class, so I took the time to visit the Gucci Garden Museum by myself. Even just walking along the Arno River and reflecting on my time here is a nice break from the constant social interaction.
At the beginning of this program, I wish I had known the importance of embracing uncertainty and leaning into discomfort. There are so many new things to explore and appreciate. Certain customs can be intimidating. More specifically, in Italian culture, it is common to enjoy super-long dinners and treat meals as a break from the bustle of everyday life. Additionally, you have to request the check at every single meal, it is not automatically brought to the table once the meal is over. This is not a typical dining style back at home, so it was definitely an adjustment. However, these extended meals have made me appreciate the company that I am in and how important it is to break away from the constant hubbub of everyday life. Furthermore, asking for the check has made me more confident and comfortable as an individual in the “adult world”. Finally, there is a lot of unknown and unreliableness making my own travel plans and accommodations, so I learned to go with the flow and not getting too overwhelmed if things don’t go according to the original plan.
What most surprised me about my study abroad experience is how much support and comfort I have felt while living in a foreign country. I have made great friends and experienced so many once-in-a-lifetime opportunities in their company. Additionally, the staff at CEA CAPA is so accommodating and friendly, they genuinely want what’s best for you. Finally, Italians are so friendly, that I have rarely felt uncomfortable in any setting in Florence. Overall, studying abroad in Florence has opened me up to a whole new world of opportunities, learning experiences, relationships, and surprises.
