I have now been in Florence for two weeks and I’m falling more in love with it everyday. There are new things I notice every time I leave my apartment and never a lack of things to do. A similarity I have seen so far between my host institution and Pitt is they both have a strong focus on academics. Even though we are abroad, attending classes and other school events is very important. I share an apartment with 7 other students which always takes some adjusting, but they are all from Pitt which made getting to know each other quite easy. We explore a lot as a group and go to dinner and classes together. It is exciting to know that I will get so close with these people and still be able to see them when I return back to Pitt. The picture below is from one of our first nights and dinner together!

I have been able to explore my neighborhood a bit each day. I live across the Arno river which I really enjoy because it is quieter than the city center, but only a 10-15 minute walk from tons of activities and classes.

While I am in Florence I am taking an International Marketing course and Analyzing and Exploring the Global City of Florence. The marketing course is super interesting to study real global companies that either originate or have expanded into Europe. I hope to one day work for a global company, because it offers so many options in terms of living and working throughout the world. This course really helps expand upon my knowledge I already have of marketing while also getting new knowledge from a professor outside of the United States. The Exploring Florence course has been super cool to not only learn about the rich history and culture of Florence, but also learn tips about places to see while I am here. My professor has given us multiple recommendations on museums to visit, restaurants to try, and much more. About once a week we go on a walking tour throughout different areas of Florence to try and find something new even in the areas we walk daily. Below is a photo for the walk I went on today.

I think the biggest skills that I have and will continue to develop while studying here are adaptability and time management. There are so many things I want to see and do while simultaneously taking classes. I plan on delegating my time well to study during the week, but also take time for myself on Fridays and Saturdays to explore this beautiful city and all it has top offer while I am here.