Studying in Florence has been an amazing and fulfilling experience, but adjusting to life here has pushed my cross-cultural perspectives in ways I didn’t expect. The main shift I’ve experienced is a change in the pace of daily life. Italy is immersed in a relaxed and much less hectic culture than the United States. It’s marked by meals that are long and unhurried, with little urgency in the way people go about their day. Further, most shops and restaurants close in the afternoon to allow employees to rest before starting back up again in the evening. For someone who’s used to constantly hurrying off to the next activity, classes, meetings, or extracurriculars back at Pitt, this more leisurely and relaxed pace of life took some adjustment.
After a few months of adjustment, I came to enjoy this pace of life. Being able to enjoy the nuances of life and the beautiful location I’m in is a welcome change to my usual, fast-paced daily routine. I’ve come to enjoy the Italian culture that treats slowing down as a value rather than a weakness.
My experience in the classroom has also been different than what I anticipated. The course I feel this the most in is Renaissance Art history, as the course regularly takes us out of the classroom and to see physical art in the museums and churches we are studying. This is a new experience for me as I have to constantly be actively learning and working to take in my surroundings. It’s a fairly quick-moving class, requiring me to take diligent notes while looking at paintings and sculptures, ask proactive questions, and engage with my environment.
Adapting to the Italian language has also required some adjustment. While English is commonly spoken throughout Florence, it’s not preferred amongst locals. In fact, locals tend not to appreciate when foreigners walk into a cafe or restaurant and speak exclusively English. The most rewarding moments abroad have come by pushing myself to actively use the Italian language skills I’m learning in the classroom. This has been especially useful at smaller, more local businesses such as common cafes I visit or my favorite local trattoria.
Before coming to Florence, I always thought that “adapting to your surroundings” had a somewhat negative connotation, and that adapting was a skill to be used when required. After spending a few months abroad in Florence, I’ve come to learn that being able to adapt to your surroundings allows for a more rewarding experience, fully immersed in Florentine culture.
