After being here for officially for a month, I have learned so much about the culture of my host country, Florence. In my Exploring and Analyzing the Global City of Florence class, we discuss both the culture that has been created for tourists and a bit more of the realistic culture. To get to the realistic culture, we must look at the past and how that has shaped the current version of Florence we see today. Our professor takes us on many walks around the city and on my own time I have attended some of the museums. By looking at this history, especially with the Renaissance, I have learned so much.
Seeing Michelangelo’s David was a surreal experience as most people are probably familiar with this piece, yet I never thought I would see it in person. This experience has allowed me to see beautiful works I never thought I would be able to and learn so much more about them. I understand so much more now the pride that Florentines have in their culture based upon these works. I really relate to their pride in the work that their ancestors did and wanting to share it with people who visit.
Most locals I have interacted with really respect and appreciate when tourists are there to learn and listen rather than see and take pictures. I think a part of the “deeper culture” here is the divide between locals who support and don’t support tourism. My professor has really helped us understand both sides and be a supportive member of the community. While some people at the grocery store or walking around may immediately understand I am American, if you are respectful and willing to learn you are far more accepted than the tourists pushing to take pictures.
Interacting with both locals and other program participants have both contributed to this well-rounded experience of study abroad. I have learned that locals are far more willing to talk with you than I would have thought. I am extremely thankful that my professor encouraged us through a project to go up and talk to locals about their experiences. These interactions have made me even more thankful and appreciative of this city I get to live in. Sometimes hearing about other cultures you may get fearful that you will not be accepted or looked down on, but by remaining respectful and showing you want to learn you can get the best experience and live like a local.