Overall, my experience studying abroad in Florence has been rewarding. There have been many challenges, but I’m very grateful to have been a part of this experience. I’ve gotten to fulfill my dream of traveling around the world. I went to two continents, six countries, and eighteen cities throughout Italy and the rest of Europe. From experiencing the history in Budapest, to taking in the beautiful nature in Interlaken, to riding camels in Morocco, this study abroad journey has given me memories I will never forget. My travels have been amazing, but having my home base in Florence was even better. Florence has so much culture, history, and beauty. Walking past the Duomo on my walk to class everyday was a surreal experience. My walks always consisted of hearing locals playing music on the streets, which was always amazing. My favorite place to go was Giardino delle Rose, where I got to see an amazing view of Florence while relaxing in nature.
While being here I have grown so much. Personally, I have become more independent. I have gone out to eat by myself, walked around and shopped, and managed public transport alone, which I never would have done at home. Being abroad can be very lonely at times, and I could either let it make me upset, or I could cheer myself up. I chose to get myself out of my apartment and learned to do things on my own that make me happy. Academically, I have been learning how to balance school work and still be able to travel, hang out with friends, and experience Florence.
A transferrable skill that I developed most throughout this program was my communication. The language barrier between my professors and students was sometimes a little hard to understand. Sometimes things weren’t clarified or I wouldn’t understand the original directions. So, a lot of times I would communicate clearly what I was confused about so my professor and I had the same understanding. Although it sounds small, it is a big skill that is very useful in work and life.
My biggest takeaway from studying abroad is my ability to do whatever I set my mind to. This experience was way out of my comfort zone, but I’m so happy I chose to do it. Now I know that in my career and schooling, even if I think it might be too much or it might be scary, I’ll be able to do it. I am so thankful for this experience and for everything it taught me.
