With only a week until I head back to the United States, I have spent some time reflecting on the amazing experience study abroad has provided me. The opportunity to spend a semester in Florence has been one of the most impactful times of my college career and has developed me as an individual significantly. There are many takeaways that will apply to the rest of my academic journey, career, and personal life.

One of the main ways I’ve grown is by being more flexible and independent. By living in a new country, I was faced with new challenges that I never even thought of. The language barrier, new foods, no drying machines, and public transportation were some of the things I found to be very different than my life in the United States. One of the ways I learned to navigate new challenges and situations was to be flexible and understand that not everything will go as planned. I found myself being more independent in my choices and relying on myself to get around the new environment. These qualities that I’ve developed over the past semester will help me adapt to post-graduation life and have bettered me as a person.

A big takeaway from this semester is to take a step back and slow down. Personally, I am the type of person to always plan for the future, looking for the next opportunity or experience. Studying abroad has taught me to enjoy every day, appreciate the sounds and smells of the city, and to be content with where I am at. It was easy to look forward each week to wherever I planned to travel without taking into account that I was already traveling by living in Florence. It was important for me to take advantage of all the city had to offer by going off the main streets and away from the tourist attractions. Small neighborhoods, local restaurants, and family-run shops were some of my favorite places to adventure in during the week. In my life, it is easy for me to look ahead to the next thing, but I realized how important it is to take a step back and enjoy where I am in the current moment. Especially since I only have 1 more semester in college, I want to take advantage of everything Pittsburgh has to offer.

These takeaways have helped give me a better perspective on college and working life. It has gone by much faster than I ever expected, which is why it is important for me to be flexible and take things slowly. As I graduate next semester, I will remember to take my time to appreciate the little things in life. Thank you to my donor for helping make this experience possible. I highly recommend any student who can to take this opportunity to study abroad and grow as an individual.

Ciao!