Now that I’m back home, it’s surreal to think that just a week ago I was walking the cobblestone streets of Florence with 17 other students from Alabama, strangers who turned into my lifelong friends. I remember stepping off the plane and feeling equal parts nervous and excited. Everything looked and felt different—but in the best way possible, so refreshing I quickly fell in love with the rhythm of Italian life, the daily espressos, the sunsets over my host family’s balcony, and the warmth of the people. Studying Italian in Florence has truly changed me. I’m more independent, open-minded, and curious. It’s one thing to study a language in a classroom and another to use it every day with locals. My worldview has expanded—I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for culture, communication, and the little things in life. My family and friends have noticed I’m more confident and adventurous, and I carry that mindset into my daily routine. I was blessed to have the opportunity to show my mom around the city for a few days after the program, where we did a panini tour and I introduced her to the locals who took me in, turning me into family! Returning home brought a wave of mixed emotions. While I’m happy to be back, I miss the spontaneity of exploring a new city and the friendships I built abroad. The most beautiful attribute I gained from studying abroad is now I will always have a connection with anyone in the world who has also had the opportunity to study abroad. It is a shared experience that only the ones who have experienced this opportunity can relate and bond over! Things that once felt normal—like driving everywhere or eating dinner early—now feel slightly strange. Reverse culture shock is real, but it’s a sign of growth and gained perspective!
To future students: pack light, stay curious, and say yes to everything (within reason!). Studying abroad is a gift—embrace every moment. You’ll come back changed in the best ways, listen to the locals stories and pass on the gift of giving opportunities to others if possible! I know I will for sure be a host family in the future! There are not enough words to explain my gratitude for the education abroad team and my directors from the university, they made sure every detail was special!