Hi everyone! My name is Lia Cohen, and I am a rising junior studying Neuroscience at Pitt, with the intention of entering the visual health sciences field. I’m from the suburbs outside of Philadelphia, and this is my first time traveling alone internationally. 

I arrived in Florence a few days ago, though my luggage decided to stop in Copenhagen. Losing my luggage would typically send me into panic, but the combination of jet lag and my lack of sleep has helped me stay calm. As I begin adjusting to this new environment, though, I want to share my expectations and goals for this global experience.

Growing up, I acquired a constant sense of urgency in my daily tasks. In other words, I am a go-getter. I tend to plan my days down to the minute and find comfort in a routine. I’ve lived in four different states throughout my life and have moved many times, so finding a routine was my way of taking control and finding my own path. 

Florence, on the other hand, is known for having a laid-back culture where relaxation is prioritized. I aspire to immerse myself into this lifestyle while abroad and learn to enjoy the moment rather than just jump to the next activity. My hope is to bring this practice home with me and make taking purposeful pauses second nature. 

I also see this global experience as an opportunity to increase my cultural competence—something critically important to my future success as an aspiring healthcare provider. This past November, I volunteered in the vision department at Pittsburgh’s Mission of Mercy event, where I had my first clinical interactions with patients from various socioeconomic backgrounds and patients who don’t speak English. While translators were assisting them, I got a glimpse into how difficult it can be for non-English speaking patients, and I believe these difficulties correlate to a lack of accessible healthcare. When I enter the field, I want to be fully equipped to provide compassionate and high-quality care to everyone.

Living in a new country for a month, I will undoubtedly face language barriers, navigational issues, and a community that doesn’t feel like home. I’m excited to push myself to work through these challenges and learn how to live outside of my comfort zone. I know I will benefit both personally and professionally by broadening my global perspective and communication skills. ​

I am very fortunate to have this opportunity to live abroad for a month and am excited to share both the good and the bad. As someone who is very curious about the world around me, I cannot wait to learn more and become a part of the Florentine culture.