It feels unreal that my time in Florence is approaching its end. Studying abroad has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my time at Pitt and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to do so. I feel like I’ve grown a lot as an individual as well as academically. Studying abroad has taught me how to be the most independent version of myself through navigating transportation, balancing travel with academics, and interacting with locals and other students.
My skills in problem solving and handling uncertain situations have greatly improved during my time overseas. Specifically when it comes to making travel plans, I’ve learned how to make last minute decisions and become a group leader. There were also situations where I had to make these decisions and face these problems on my own during my solo days and travels. In terms of academics, I’ve enjoyed reigniting my interests in art and psychology with my drawing and cross cultural psych classes. Previously I had never even considered the fact that I might be interested in drawing but it’s now something I plan to take up as a hobby when returning back to the US. As a marketing major, many of the business classes I’ve had to take are vastly different from the classes in Florence but they’ve allowed me to reconnect with the more creative parts of myself.
One of the biggest takeaways from this experience I’ve had is that it’s always important to try new things even when you might be unsure at first. My confidence has improved overall because of the willingness I’ve had to approach new challenges and take risks. As I return to Pitt in the fall, I plan to use this confidence to become more involved inside and outside the classroom and develop my professional skills throughout my career. I want to continue to use my adaptability throughout my day to day life and apply a newfound sense of cultural awareness going forward.
Overall this experience has affected and changed me in a variety of ways, some unexpected, but all have left me to grow positively as a person. I am saying goodbye to Florence and bringing back with me amazing new memories and friends that I will appreciate for the rest of my life. I’m very thankful for these moments and the ability to experience them in such an amazing city.
