Best Experience for Myself!

My study abroad experience in Florence was incredibly transformative, for both my personal and academic growth. When I finally made it to Florence after a year of preparation, the beauty of the city and the warmth of its locals affirmed to me that this was the right decision for myself after so long of dealing with setbacks and doubts. Finding myself suddenly in a foreign country at 20 years old forced me to be more independent, confident, adaptable, and aware both self and socially. It even acted as a first step, a push even, toward the dreams I had been building up in my mind for years, providing clarity about my future goals and helping me refine them. While I, of course, encountered challenges, those difficult moments added valuable lessons and memorable stories I would never replace. Study abroad allowed me to live more in the present and appreciate each moment, something I have always struggled with. I loved soaking in every bit of Florence, sometimes choosing not to travel around to other places just so I had more time in my host city. Ultimately, my experience expanded my perspective on life, cultures, and the world, making the lessons learned abroad an irreplaceable part of my personal growth.