I’ve only been in Florence for a few days and I already have enough memories and thoughts to write pages and pages of my journal. Coming here, I knew there was history and art and beauty. Not until now have I started to grasp the magnitude and importance of Florence’s treasures and I cannot wait to start classes and learn about everything  – the meaning behind the beautiful cathedrals, the Renaissance figures that worked and lived here together, and the evolution of the city as time has passed.

So far my understanding of Italian life is very limited, but I am slowly picking up on small bits and pieces of the culture. For example, a cappuccino is only appropriate in la mattina, the morning. If you want coffee in the afternoon, you will have to order un espresso or un espresso macchiato if you have any hope of blending in. And there is no such thing as Walmart or Target! Many food items, like cheese, bread and meat, are sold in specific shops. You can go to a supermarket, but it is much smaller than what you are used to at home. Besides, the produce found at the Sant’Ambrogio market is fresher and tastier, and you can strike up a conversation with locals to practice what you learned in Italian class this morning. And lastly, don’t be surprised when restaurants get busy at 9pm – Italians eat dinner a little later, take their time and enjoy the company. No take-out here!

I started my classes this week – Italian, digital photography, painting, drawing, and philososophy of Early Modern Italy. What a dream J This whole experience is still becoming real to me. Every day I am struck by the fact that I get to live here for four months, take art classes with like-minded students, explore this beautiful city, form new relationships and, of course, eat legendary food. Is this real?! I feel so blessed and every day brings new opportunities to learn, explore, and enjoy every second.

I can’t wait for more!

– Erin, Gustavus Adolphus College