Dear Pre-Italy Ryan,
Right now, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty as you prepare to leave the country for four months. You’ve spent a lot of time building a packing list, researching places to visit, and imagining how this journey would unfold. However, let me tell you—nothing can truly prepare you for how much you will grow and love the next few months.
First and foremost, you will become more independent than you ever imagined. Navigating a foreign country, managing your own budget, and adapting to a completely different culture will push you outside your comfort zone in ways that a classroom never could. You will make some mistakes—like ordering the wrong dish because you don’t understand the language, or booking the wrong train—but each of these experiences will teach you to be flexible and patient. Over the course of the semester, you will start to feel a sense of confidence in your ability to handle these challenges, and oftentimes make a joke out of it.
If there is one thing I wish I knew before arriving in Florence, it’s that you don’t need to have everything planned out. Instead of stressing over the perfect weekend plans, you will realize that sometimes the best moments of the semester come from being spontaneous and being in crazy situations. You will also realize that Italian’s value a slower, intentional lifestyle—something very different from the fast-paced lifestyle you are so used to. So, take a step back and embrace spontaneity. Make sure to hang out during dinner, take time to chat with the locals, and do not be afraid to get a little lost in the city.
What surprised me the most about this experience is how quickly Florence will start to feel like home. At first, everything will feel unfamiliar—the busy city, the way people interact, not being able to read any signs or labels. But soon, you will get into a rhythm on how to order the proper meals, what your favorite things to buy at the grocery store are, and how to avoid the tourist crowds by instinctively knowing which streets are less busy. The transition from feeling like a visitor to a resident happens gradually, but when it does, it is incredibly rewarding.
So, to my past self, remember not to plan out everything and worry about the logistics of everything. The experience ahead will be more fun, exciting, and eye-opening than you can imagine. You will leave Florence with a new appreciation for different cultures, a stronger sense of self, and a bunch of unforgettable memories. Cherish every moment, even during challenging times, because before you know it, it will be the end of the semester and time to go back to the United States.
