When I began this study abroad program in Italy, I had several goals in mind. I wanted to gain practical experience through my internship, develop a better understanding of Italian culture beyond what I could learn in a classroom, and become more confident living and working in a completely different environment. Looking back, I can confidently say that I achieved these goals, and in many ways, I gained even more than I expected.
My internship at MArB gave me the opportunity to work on real heritage conservation projects using laser scanning and point cloud technology. Before coming to Italy, I had only a general understanding of this type of work, but during the internship I learned how these technologies are used to document and preserve historic buildings with incredible precision. I also experienced what it is like to work in a professional environment where teamwork, communication, and attention to detail are essential. Being trusted with meaningful tasks helped me become more confident in my abilities and motivated me to continue exploring new technical skills.
Beyond the internship, living in Italy allowed me to experience the country’s culture firsthand. Visiting historical cities, museums, and architectural landmarks gave me a much deeper appreciation for Italy’s history than simply reading about it. Everyday experiences, from navigating public transportation to interacting with locals, helped me become more comfortable adapting to unfamiliar situations. Although there were occasional language barriers and cultural differences, I learned that patience, respect, and a willingness to learn go a long way in building connections with people from different backgrounds.
One of the biggest takeaways from this experience has been the development of several transferable soft skills. Adaptability is probably the most important one. Every day presented something new, whether it was learning unfamiliar software, adjusting to different working styles, or solving unexpected problems. I also strengthened my communication skills by collaborating with professionals and classmates from different countries. Working with people from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds taught me how valuable it is to listen carefully, ask questions, and consider different perspectives before making decisions.
Another skill I developed was independence. Living abroad required me to manage my own schedule, organize travel, balance coursework with my internship, and solve everyday problems on my own. These experiences helped me become more responsible and confident in handling situations that initially felt challenging. I also improved my time management by balancing professional responsibilities with academic assignments while still making time to explore Italy and experience everything the program had to offer.
These skills will continue to benefit me during the rest of my time at Pitt. Whether I am working on group projects, participating in internships, or preparing for future leadership opportunities. I know that adaptability, communication, independence, and time management will help me succeed. As someone interested in pursuing an international career, learning to work effectively with people from different cultures is an invaluable experience that will benefit me throughout my professional life.
Overall, this study abroad experience has changed me in many positive ways. I’m returning home with new technical knowledge, stronger professional skills, lifelong friendships, and a greater appreciation for different cultures. Most importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to step outside my comfort zone and thrive in unfamiliar environments. This experience has reinforced my desire to continue seeking international opportunities, and I know the lessons I learned in Italy will stay with me long after this program has ended.
