As many of you have probably heard, from parents, friends, family members, and everyone who knows about studying abroad: culture shock is a real thing. While it may not totally “shock” you to your core, you definitely take some time getting adjusted. You have to get to know your city in order to make the most of it, and that includes navigating so many new experiences.

The first big cultural shock I had was being surrounded by people who don’t speak your language. You feel as though you don’t know what’s going on, and that the world is rotating, but you’re just observing it all. It takes a lot of courage and strength to work up talking to people, as it feels awkward having to speak the language that you may not know, or the language they may not know! My first tip for language barriers is to practice the basics: learn how to say hello, goodbye, please and thank you, and basic sentences that you may repeat often. Second, learn how to read body language and observe the world around you: this can be a great cue for learning some nonverbal customs that you may not know. For example, here in Florence, people chat while they drink their coffee at the bar; maybe try drinking and chatting one time too! If you can have a conversation of course!

Another big cultural shock I realized is how quaint and slow-moving everything is. People here have lots of time, and work some simple jobs. There is not a lot of hustle and bustle. Try to remember to take it all in slowly, and give yourself time to just walk around and enjoy yourself. Relax and try to move at the pace that the community you live in does.

Lastly, try to keep an open mind. Every country and city has different customs, traditions, languages, and differences. Try to embrace them and enjoy them during your time abroad. Make the most of it!

Written by: Vivian, Spring 2025 Florence student from Miami University