We Chose Florence: Our Study Abroad Story
By Peter Laphen, Gia Sabatino, and Kathryn Jacketti
When we first started thinking about studying abroad, we honestly had no idea what to expect. We just knew we wanted something new and something that would push us out of our comfort zones. After much time researching and considering the multitude of countries and cities, Florence ended up being everything we hoped for and so much more. It’s not just a city packed with history and beauty; it’s a place that welcomes you in and makes you feel like you belong, even if you’ve only just arrived.
Florence: The City That Becomes Home
Living in different apartments and areas, one of the first things we noticed about Florence is how easy it is to settle in. It’s not a huge urban area like some of our other options, and that’s actually one of its best qualities. You can walk almost everywhere, and it didn’t take long before we were recognizing familiar streets, grabbing coffee from the same café each morning, and finding our favorite lunch spots (Berbere). Florence’s comfortable size and vibrant energy make it feel like you are part of the city, not just a visitor passing through.
History and Art Around Every Corner
Florence is like a living museum, but it never feels staged or overwhelming like other cities we have traveled to. On our way to class each day, we would pass the Duomo or catch a glimpse of Michelangelo’s David and much more. The city’s Renaissance roots are woven into daily life, meaning you don’t have to go looking for history; it finds you. It’s an incredible feeling to be surrounded by so much art and culture, and yet have it all feel so natural and accessible.
Food: A Daily Celebration
We thought we knew Italian food, but Florence completely changed our perspective. Every meal is an experience, from fresh pasta and wood-fired pizza to the best gelato we’ve ever tasted. We learned to slow down and savor our food, and we quickly found our favorite trattorias and gelaterias. Honestly, we started debating who had the best gelato in town, and eating out became one of the highlights of our days.
Travel is Easy, But Florence is Hard to Leave
One of the perks of studying in Florence is how easy it is to explore beyond the city. Weekend trips to Rome, Venice, and even other countries are just a train ride or flight away. But what surprised us most was how much we wanted to stay in Florence. There’s something about Florence that makes it hard to leave, and even after amazing trips, coming back to our apartments, strolling through the markets, and watching the sunsets from Fiesole always felt like coming home.
Personal Growth in Unexpected Ways
Looking back on our final time here, we’re amazed at how much we changed during our time in Florence. It wasn’t about one big, dramatic moment. It was the little things like learning to navigate a new city, asking for directions in Italian, and figuring out how to handle the unexpected. We are leaving Florence more confident, independent, and open-minded, with a whole new sense of what we’re capable of.
Why Florence?
Florence is more than just a study abroad destination, it’s a city that becomes part of you. From its walkable streets and world-class art to the friendships and confidence we gained, studying here was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. If you’re looking for a place that will challenge you, inspire you, and feel like home all at once, Florence is it.
Watch Our Favorite Florence Moments
Arrivederci!
Peter Laphen, Gia Sabatino, and Kathryn Jacketti