Throughout this experience, I have been able to experience many different communities in Europe, especially in Florence. Florence is made up of many different types of people. There are constantly loads of tourists, but also so many students and working people. The people in Florence are more than welcoming to students. I have had so many people ask me where I am from, where I’m studying , and different things about myself. I have never once been made to feel unwelcome in Florence, and I am so grateful to be able to study in a place that is so welcoming.

Observing the community in Florence has been extremely interesting. Florence is a major city, but it is much smaller than Milan or Rome. It is extremely walkable, and I think that makes the community more closely knit. Shopkeepers are friends with each other, the waiters that stand outside their restaurants want to talk to you, and everyone is extremely friendly. Florentines have a lot of pride for their city. I think something that is somewhat different from the United States is the civic pride they have for their country and their city. I have come to the conclusion that it is because of the immense amount of history that has happened in their city. They have more respect for their city and the people in their city.

Being able to experience and observe this has been one of the best experiences of my life, and I really hope to have the ability to come back here in the future!