Ciao! My name is Samuel Avery, and this semester I am studying in Florence, Italy, through Pitt’s Global Business Institute program. I am a third-year Finance major getting a minor in philosophy. I love to travel, learn about new cultures, and experience the world from different perspectives, so for me studying abroad was a no brainer.
I chose to study in Florence for a few reasons: The weather, central location, architecture, and history. I am from New York City, so I’ll take any chance to get some sun, and the location of Italy within Europe makes it great for traveling over the weekends and visiting friends in other places. Furthermore, the architecture is beautiful, and I love looking over it on my walk to classes. Lastly, Italy is full of history and culture, which makes it great to explore and learn about. My goals for this semester are to, one, get out of my comfort zone and explore Italy and Florence on solo trips and work on becoming more independent. Secondly, to get better at Italian as understanding a culture’s language helps me connect with it more
The campus here, compared the central campus at the University of Pittsburgh, is very different. Since it is a Global Business Institute program, I am not at a local university but instead a “satellite campus” that is composed of a few buildings. However, they are located in architechually complex buildings, which makes for a greater experience. Futhermore the location is great as all the buildings are at the centerpoint of Florence, within walking distance from the Duomo, Florence’s center hub.
After being here for some time, I can say I love my neighborhood. Within walking distance, there are shops, restaurants, cafes, cultural exhibits, my classes, and more. Furthermore, it is in an area filled with many locals, many of whom I try to get to know for an authentic experience. There are also many fewer cars compared to back home, which makes it great for walking. I live with 3 other roomates who are also all students from America stuyding abroad who I love hanging out with.
Despite feeling overwhelmed by everything upon my arrival. I have to come and have a smooth transition and feel like I am adapting well to my environment. I have a solid routine that keeps me focused academically, while also leaving time to enjoy all of what Florence has to offer, and am excited for the remainder of my program!
