One of the most important aspects of Italian life and culture is food. A history of food insecurity and a disjointed nation has led Italians to placing great importance on cooking and eating. There are strict times for eating certain meals, and various rules pertaining to the foods that can be eaten depending on the…
Tag: Florence
Community in Florence
During my time abroad, I have been taking a cross-cultural psychology course. Through this class, I’ve been able to explore the similarities and differences between Italian and American culture. As I explore the city of Florence as a tourist and as a student, I am able to apply what I’ve learned inside the classroom to…
Flourishing in Florence
As the date got closer to my departing flight to Italy, I began to feel simultaneously anxious and excited to go abroad. Traveling alone, I can expect to be forced out of my comfort zone throughout my six weeks abroad. I usually struggle with taking advantage of opportunities and putting myself out there, especially when…
Echoes of Florence: Lessons from a Timeless City
Reflecting on my six weeks in Florence, I realize that the city’s most enduring lessons unfolded beyond the classroom. While I strengthened my Italian and deepened my understanding of Renaissance art and architecture, the true growth came from living within a culture both familiar and foreign, and learning to move gracefully through its rhythms. Adaptability…
Small Things That Taught Me Big Lessons in Florence
Living in Florence taught me that the smallest details can hold the biggest lessons. From discovering how Italian pharmacies prioritize beauty and wellness over food, to experiencing the simplicity and efficiency of their train system, I saw a new perspective on daily life. Even something as ordinary as grocery shopping revealed cultural differences—fresh produce at unbeatable prices, unrefrigerated eggs, and shelves filled with fresh pasta instead of frozen meals. These subtle differences opened my eyes to how culture shapes our habits and what we often take for granted back home.
Where the Past Walks Beside You
My first “wow” moment in Italy came on my very first day. My roommates and I were walking to orientation when we passed through an archway into the heart of Florence. Suddenly, the narrow streets opened into a view of breathtaking Renaissance architecture, and I realized I wasn’t just sightseeing — I was walking through…
Finding Home in the Unexpected
When I boarded my flight to Florence, I knew I was heading somewhere beautiful — but I didn’t realize how much it would teach me about myself, or about the kind of doctor, person, and global citizen I want to be. My goal was simple yet daunting: step outside my comfort zone and immerse myself…
Ciao Firenze!!! Till We Meet Again
My time in Florence has ended, and now, a few weeks later, I’ve come back to my regular life feeling completely changed. This program challenged me in so many more ways than just academically. In just two months, I’ve felt my entire perception of the world expanding, and I have grown in so many ways,…
Ciao for Now
As I rap up my final days in Florence, I am looking back on all of the amazing things I have seen and gotten to experience since being here. I stepped out of my comfort zone and was able to meet so many amazing people from Pitt and beyond who have made a lasting impact…
New Look at Sustainability
Every since I arrived in Florence, I have been extremely surprised by the amount of focus the people of Florence have on sustainability. On every street, there are multiple different trash cans all labeled for different things such as plastic, glass, compostables, packaging, and more. The residents here take time to separate all of these…