Beyond the academic opportunities this program offers, I see this global experience as a chance to grow into a more confident, adaptable, and globally minded version of myself. Within the last two months, I have already had the opportunity to visit six new countries and even go on my first solo trip to Paris! Studying abroad has opened so many new doors for me, and I wake up excited each day to see where life will take me.
As you could imagine, traveling from place to place can also bring culture shock and a mix of emotions. I’ve found that having an open mind and embracing unfamiliar situations has helped me turn those moments into opportunities for growth. Instead of seeing differences in language, customs, or daily routines as obstacles, I try to view them as chances to learn more about the people and places around me.
Since arriving in Italy, I have made an effort to immerse myself in the culture as much as possible. I have learned Italian phrases so I can order food, greet people, and have small conversations with locals. Even these small interactions have helped me feel more connected to the community and more confident stepping outside my comfort zone. I have also enjoyed observing and adapting to everyday customs, like greeting people warmly, being friendly and respectful in conversation, and appreciating the slower pace of daily life here.
Fully immersing myself in new cultures has allowed me to see the beauty in ways of life that are different from my own. In many ways, I felt prepared for this experience and excited to embrace it, which made the transition feel natural.
Moving forward, my main goal during this program is to continue embracing every moment of this experience. I want to explore as much of Florence as I can, continue learning from the people and culture around me, and fully appreciate the opportunity to live somewhere so rich in history and tradition. Whether it’s trying new restaurants, practicing Italian with locals, or simply walking through the city and observing everyday life, I hope to remain present and intentional with my time here. I know this experience will go by quickly, so my goal is to make the most of every opportunity and take in as much as I can while I am here.
