New friends in Riomaggiore

When preparing to study abroad it’s normal to feel a multitude of feelings; excitement for your new classes, curiosity to know about the culture you will be immersing yourself in, as well as self-doubt and nerves for the unexpected and unknown in the months ahead. Studying abroad was something I always knew I wanted to do. I was itching to travel on my own and leave the comfort of my hometown. I wanted to dive headfirst into a new lifestyle and get to know a different version of myself. I felt like I had been planning my semester for years and I was overly prepared. However, as my summer came to an end and the fall semester started creeping closer and closer I began to panic. I doubted myself and my abilities to travel on my own and adapt to the vast changes of a new culture.

View of the Duomo from SAI rooftop Aperitivo

During the planning process for studying abroad everything felt like a dream come true. I couldn’t believe I was getting the opportunity to learn what I love in a new country. I felt so lucky. When the day came for me to begin my abroad adventure, everything was starting to feel very real and immensely intimidating. I felt like I made a mistake and didn’t believe in myself. What helped me during this time was reminding myself that my fear was only a feeling. I was about to face lots of big changes and do many things I had never done before. It’s completely normal to feel scared. However, being scared is not a barrier, it’s a feeling. In my first couple weeks abroad, I was able to make amazing friends that helped me feel less alone and build a community to surround myself in.

SAI Viva day trip to San Gimignano

The SAI Viva activities were a great way for me to meet new people and make new friends as well as getting out in the community and engaging in cultural activities. The day trips that are offered are a budget-friendly way to get out of the city, see more of the country, and spend time with other people in your program. Something that really helped me get accustomed to my Italian life was trying to make a routine and incorporate things that I would normally do at home. I found a run club that is hosted by study abroad students- it’s a great way to see the city and meet new people with similar interests to you.

By pushing through uncomfortable feelings, I was able to gain so much. I am much more confident in myself and my abilities to navigate new experiences, step out of my comfort zone, and live in a new environment. Studying abroad is the best decision I’ve ever made; its helped me discover more about myself and grow so much as a person.

Written by: Isabella, Fall 2024 Florence student from University of Louiville