Now that I am sitting down to write this nearing the end of my time in Florence, it is hard to fully express how much and in what ways I’ve grown and changed. Before I came abroad, I was filled with a mix of nervousness, curiosity, and excitement. I had no idea what to expect from living in a new country for so long and learning in a different academic setting. I underestimated just how much this experience would push me emotionally and culturally.
I’ve grown in ways I didn’t anticipate. Living and learning in a new country challenged me to become more adaptable and self-reliant. I’ve learned to navigate unfamiliar environments, such as communicating across communicate across language and cultural barriers. A moment of reflection for me is looking back at the first time I went grocery shopping – I did not understand the cultural norms that you typically get a small amount of groceries at a time instead of the typical American experience of buying in bulk. I still remember standing at the checkout for a long time, waiting for the cashier to scan all my groceries while a long line formed behind me. It was embarrassing, but that moment taught me to be patient with myself and embrace the learning curve.
If I could go back and tell you one thing, it would be to stop worrying so much about “doing it right.” Being present and embracing the process of absorbing the culture, building connections, and learning through experience is what made this experience so great. I look back at what I previously thought as embarrassing moments and laugh. Those moments are the ones that I hold with the most fondness, and are the ones where I grew the most. They reminded me that growth often comes from discomfort, and that’s where the most meaningful memories are made.
What surprised me the most about Florence was how quickly it started to feel like home. I didn’t expect to get so used to the city’s pace, walking past famous, beautiful sculptures every day, its people, and its sense of warmth and community. I also didn’t expect that stepping so far outside my comfort zone would actually help me feel more grounded in who I am and what I care about. Being in a completely different environment gave me the space to reflect on my values, interests, and goals in a way I never had before.
This experience has changed me in a positive way. I believe that I am coming back with a broader worldview, a stronger sense of self, and a deep gratitude for every moment that Florence gave me. It’s not just the memories I’ll carry with me, but the mindset of openness, curiousity, and willingness to take on the unfamiliar with courage and joy.
