One of the best parts about studying abroad is how much personal growth I experience from living in Florence and traveling around. I chose to study abroad in a city where I didn’t know anyone and in the fall semester, even though I have some friends who are going abroad in the spring semester. Going into it, I was excited to be doing this alone and the thought of meeting all new people was really great until I actually came over here and actually realized I was alone in a new country.

The first couple of weeks were like experiencing college move-in all over again, except were all in separate apartments scattered throughout the city. Being in a dorm made it a lot easier to meet people. I was scared of falling behind in meeting people and quickly realized I was going to have to take initiative and talk to people or make plans first. Through this I would say I have developed a higher sense of confidence and social independence which are both important soft skills. I have found my group of people here because I learned to put myself out there first. This process has also made me more comfortable and confident in doing things alone as well. Booking my first solo trip was definitely nerve wracking, but it allowed me to learn a lot about myself and grow my independence.

A notable hard skill I have been working to develop is my ability to speak Italian. Having class three times a week keeps the learning fast paced, but it has been really helpful and interesting to try and apply it during every day interactions here. I took three years of language in high school and never picked it up as fast as I have here where I can actually practice ordering meals and daily interactions. The locals also seem to appreciate when you put in an effort to learn their language or culture.

Overall, this experience has shown me how much I have grown outside of academics. Studying abroad has given me the push I needed to break out of my comfort zone in many ways, but particularly socially. I now move through my day with more confidence in myself especially in my interactions with others. I feel more grounded in who I am, and less shy when it comes to new people or experiences.