When I first considered going abroad, I knew that I would want an experience that would put me outside my comfort zone while furthering my personal goals. After weighing the different (and many) options that Pitt Business had, I eventually landed on Florence, Italy! This decision is one I am so glad about, and I can already see how it will shape me in ways I never expected.
The first experience that I had going abroad was the summer before my freshman year. I participated in a program called the Haller Global Honors Fellowship, which spent two weeks in Pittsburgh, and then 2 weeks in Dublin, Ireland, working with an Irish client on a consulting project. This program is what introduced me to global experiences here at Pitt, and it showed me just how much I could learn by stepping into a different environment. From navigating a new city to working with professionals from a different culture, I realized how valuable hands-on global experiences are in shaping my perspective and problem-solving skills.
Now, choosing to study in Florence is another step in that journey—one that will and already has challenged me even more. Italy’s language, culture, and pace of life are all vastly different from what I’m used to, and adjusting to these differences has been both exciting and eye-opening. For example, I have already had to navigate daily life in a place where English isn’t the primary language, whether that’s ordering food, asking for directions, or even handling small but important interactions like grocery shopping.
More importantly, I see this as an opportunity to develop more independence and adaptability—skills that will last past my time abroad. Every day gives a new challenge, whether it’s figuring out the public transportation system, adjusting to cultural norms, or simply learning how to navigate daily life. These experiences have helped me to become more resourceful and confident in handling uncertainty. It’s solidified that the unknown isn’t something to fear—it’s an opportunity for growth.
