Deciding to study abroad is relatively easy, but the other elements can be tricky. Most institutions offer programs in many different cities and countries across the globe, and finding a new home can be overwhelming with so many great options to choose from. Narrowing down your choices is hard because in the moment, every place seems exhilarating and worth it. Although every place is worth it, some can be worth more for you. These factors can depend on overseas classes that are relative to your major, what activities you are most interested in, what foods you can picture yourself eating regularly, and so much more.

For me, it simply came down to which city offered the most beyond the classroom. Aspects such as enriching history, art, food, music, scenery, and even safety mattered when it came down to the final decision. Florence was one of the only places that entirely fulfilled this checklist. It is undeniable that this city gave the most educational opportunities and life experience than any other place my institute was offering for university destinations abroad. Italy has a strong, warm, and welcoming culture that attracts students and tourists from all over the world. This place was the best opportunity that I refused to pass up.

Writing this now and reflecting on my time here, I would choose Florence over and over again if I got the opportunity to. The warm feeling, thrilling memories, and lifelong friends this place has brought me and others, is so difficult to put into words. It’s one of those things where you just have to live through it to understand the feeling. Going home with so many souvenirs and pictures to keep with us as a comforting reminder of our second home away from home. For many of us, the best souvenir is the friends you meet along the way that double as best friends for the rest of your life. These are all cherishable and priceless espects of this experience. Four months just simply isn’t enough time here but it’s important you don’t take it for granted. Travel around Italy and Europe any chance you get, sightsee, engage with locals, eat all the pasta, and most importantly, soak it all in. 

Choose Florence and take the leap towards the best four months of your life. It’s completely normal to feel anxious, unsure, and overwhelmed. Leaving aspects of your life behind for four months doesn’t always come easy. But leaving such a beautiful enriching experience and place is still benefitting months and even years after the experience. Having a worldlier view, being educated on different cultures, and discovering what you like and don’t like is something that will follow you around forever. It is something that is beyond the college experience, it is rich life experience. It’s education that simply can’t just be taught in schools, but rather lived through.

By: Ashlynn McKinlay