Studying abroad in Florence is everything people say and more. Between the food, the history, and the day-to-day life, it’s an experience that changes you in the best way possible. But looking back, there are so many experiences we didn’t know about before coming here that ended up being some of the most valuable parts of the whole journey. What started as small challenges quickly turned into some of our favorite memories and biggest personal growth moments. Looking back, our experience can really be summed up in four words: culture, independence, adventure, and overcoming challenges. These are the things we didn’t expect, but wouldn’t change for anything.
C: Culture
Before coming to Florence, we had no idea how different everyday life would actually be. No cappuccinos after the mornings, dinners not even starting until 7, sidewalks that barely fit two people (still not over that), and personal space basically not existing. At first it felt overwhelming, but it ended up teaching us how to slow down, go with the flow, and appreciate a completely different way of living.
I: Independence
We didn’t expect just how much independence and personal growth we would gain while being abroad in Florence. Obviously, we knew spending four months in a different country would push us a little, but it ended up being way more than we imagined. We learned a lot about ourselves just by exploring, trying new things, and stepping outside our comfort zones. Even though we loved spending so much time with friends, we also realized how important it is to do things on our own, whether that’s shopping in the afternoon, grabbing lunch between classes, or even taking a solo trip. Those moments made us more confident, independent, and helped us grow the most.
A: Adventure
Traveling while abroad in Florence can be exhausting. The early mornings, delayed trains, and constant packing, but the experiences and make up for all of it. Even those challenging moments end up being the ones you remember the most. So say yes to every trip you can, and even more importantly, say yes to the things that scare you a little. You only have so much time here, and it goes by way faster than you think.
O: Overcoming challenges
We definitely faced our fair share of challenges while studying abroad. Adjusting to a new culture, missing trains, or having those random homesick days… it’s all part of it. You know it’s coming, but it still hits. It’s honestly a rollercoaster, some days feel effortless and unreal, and others test you more than expected. Now that we’re getting close to the end, it honestly feels surreal. We’re excited to be back with our friends and family, but at the same time, it’s hard to even process leaving a place that became our home without us realizing it. The routines, the little streets, the random moments we didn’t think twice about. All of it ended up meaning so much more than we expected.
And that’s the hardest part, realizing how much a place can change you, and knowing you have to leave it behind.
Ciao Florence – we’ll be back soon <3
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By: Dimore Hananel, Bria Bair, Ella Buckley, Jordi Kelman, Hope Smith, and Elizabeth Benvenuto
