As my time in Florence comes to an end, I would like to share some things with my pre-departure self:
Firstly, I know that you are questioning spending a semester abroad in Florence: was this the right location for you? How will you maintain connections with friends and family back home? Is it worth it to miss a semester at Pitt?
Your time in Florence will be full of personal growth and go by very quickly. I remember when I first moved into my apartment, and now that place feels like mine. In terms of personal growth, you will learn many things about yourself that will shape the way you continue your life after Florence. Studying and living abroad has been so fulfilling and cemented my goals of working internationally in the future. I have gained confidence in myself as I have successfully navigated many different cultures and made a life in another continent! Being here has also given me perspective about life at home and the world as a whole. Although it is completely cliche, my experiences abroad have changed my life for the better.
Looking back, I wish I had my future self to tell me not to worry so much about what would happen once I was here. I remember how worried I was about leaving my friends and being away from my family for four months, but my time here has only made me appreciate them more. Most importantly, it is okay to miss home, but let go of ‘fomo’ and focus on making connections with the people around you – you are in Italy! I also would tell myself to savor the time you have in Florence. I think there is so much pressure to travel as much as you can and constantly check things off of your bucket list. While you should 100% travel to different places, make sure to take in the country you chose to live in! I would also let myself know that it is okay if you have some days where you wish you could be home or even a lazy day to reset. Four months is a long time to be constantly on the move and trying to do everything.
Overall, you are going to wish you had more time here – don’t be afraid and stop overthinking your decision.
Sincerely,
Future me