In attempting to assimilate with Italian culture, there have definitely been a handful of learning curves experienced along the way. As someone who’d never traveled internationally prior to this program, the first few weeks of this experience were largely spent trying to adapt and adjust to something that felt completely new. One of the most daunting of these adjustments has been learning to navigate public spaces, adapting to pedestrian-dominated streets and figuring out how to flow through traffic. I’ve had to rework some of my more American tendencies, such as rushing to and from places, in order to blend more seamlessly with those around me, and I’ve definitely had to grow accustomed to the more refined dress code that exists here. Overall, though, I feel as though I am managing quite well, and I feel like an open mind is all one truly needs to fit in with a differentiated culture.
Nonetheless, cross-cultural situations can definitely feel uncomfortable and overwhelming. In having the opportunity to travel to other countries aside from Italy, I’ve gotten a fair taste of what it’s like to acclimate to different cultures on a quick turnaround basis. Interacting with locals has provided me with a deep appreciation for the places I visit, often allowing me to feel welcomed and safe as opposed to unwanted. I find myself frequently met with hospitality when traveling internationally, and I am always grateful for locals who extend me kindness despite their entitlement to feel annoyed at tourism. Seeing the ways in which these locals embrace travelers such as myself—attempting to speak English, offering recommendations, extending simple acts of courtesy—has unironically given me a brighter outlook on humanity, and it is my hope to internalize this kindness so as to replicate it with travelers in my own homeland.
Aside from my travels, I’m doing my best to stay focused on academics and embracing the ways of Italian living. I feel as though I’ve entered a strong rhythm with studying and allocating time for school, and I hope I’ll be able to maintain this balance as we pivot towards the second half of the semester. By the time I leave in April, I hope I’ll have taken with me a deep-rooted connection to Florentine culture and the assimilation skills that come with traveling abroad. Many wonderful things are happening every single day, and I just feel so grateful to be a part of this!