Marcela Fioranelli — GBI Florence — Summer 2024
Studying abroad in Florence has been an incredible journey of personal and academic growth. As I navigate through my classes and internship, I find myself developing a range of valuable skills.
One of the most significant soft skills I’ve developed during my time in Florence is cultural adaptability. Living in a foreign country has taught me how to adjust to different cultural norms and practices. For instance, during one of my classes on Renaissance Art, we often had to engage in group discussions with classmates from various cultural backgrounds. This experience taught me how to communicate effectively and appreciate different perspectives. It improved my interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence, as I learned to navigate and respect cultural differences.
Additionally, I’ve become more independent. Being in a new environment has required me to manage my time efficiently, handle unexpected challenges, and make decisions on my own. For example, when I had to prepare a presentation for my cross-cultural psychology class, I had to conduct independent research, visit local museums, and collaborate with local experts, all of which honed my problem-solving skills.
In terms of hard skills, I’ve gained substantial knowledge and expertise in several areas through my coursework and hands-on experiences. One of my core classes focused on Renaissance Art, where we had in-depth studies of masterpieces housed in Florence’s renowned museums such as the Uffizi Gallery. I learned to analyze artistic techniques, historical contexts, and cultural significance, which enhanced my ability to critically assess artworks. This skill will be incredibly useful for any future academic research. Cultural adaptability and language skills will enrich my life by enabling me to connect with people from different backgrounds and explore more diverse experiences. Being independent and self-reliant will help me handle life’s challenges with confidence.
Studying abroad in Florence has been an enriching experience that has equipped me with a mix of soft and hard skills. These skills are not only enhancing my current academic and professional journey but also laying a strong foundation for my future. I am excited to see how these experiences will shape my personal and professional growth in the years to come.
See you next time!
Marcela Fioranelli