Lisa is a current student at the Vancouver Island University studying at Florence University of the Arts (FUA) in Italy during the Fall 2014 term.

Tell us why you chose to study abroad.
I chose to study abroad because I would like to experience everything the world has to offer. I am so interested in cultures all over. The reason that I chose Italy is because of the food. As a culinary major and a chef I am passionate about everything that I can taste and create and the Italians are able to manipulate food in such a way that makes the gods sing. I wish to go to the source and learn from the very best, immersed in their culture, to better experience the love and passion that goes into such culinary creations as a simple home cooked Italian meal all the way to a five star dining experience. I chose to step away from traditional schooling for a while to get some hands on experience in my trade and have been trying a hand at Caribbean cuisine but now its time to get back to an Italian love of mine.

What are you most nervous about re. studying abroad?
I have only ever traveled out of my own country once and that was to go meet some of my family in Hungary. I am very nervous about every aspect of studying abroad, being away from my family, comfort zone and familiarity is truly terrifying and exciting for me. I cannot wait to begin and just soak up as much culture as humanly possible. The world is my oyster and I’m going to learn every way possible to enjoy it, and since I’m in Florence I will be enjoying it with really good wine!