The gorgeous and detailed Duomo.

Being a natural homebody, the idea of going abroad was very new to me. I was filled with many different emotions and did not know what to expect. When I first arrived in Florence, I was very overwhelmed by the city; in a good way. I was mesmerized by its beauty, but also very confused and did not know how to get anywhere. Now on Day 4, I am still getting lost about once a day, but I see it all as an adventure. It’s hard to mind getting lost when you are in such a beautiful city.

The living room and kitchen of my cute apartment!

The first day we arrived, we got to our apartment and tried to get settled. I am living with three of my friends from home so the comfort of them made the transition a little easier. I was pleasantly surprised with my apartment as there is much more room than I thought! The kitchen and living room are big, the bathroom has all the space we need and my bedroom is very comfortable. After getting settled, we wandered the streets for a little and found a great restaurant in Santo Spirito that we ate at the first night. I had gnocchi in truffle oil and it was so delicious! The second day my roommates and I got up early for orientation. I live in the Oltrarno so I am about a half hour walk from most things on the other side of the river. Unfortunately getting lost was already an issue and we arrived at orientation late. However, when we finally got to orientation, I was very pleased by the helpful tips and information we were given. Particularly, I loved learning about the places to go in the Oltrarno, since it was so relevant and useful! The SAI staff was very accommodating and did their best to make everyone feel comfortable in this new and exciting transition.

My first meal at Osteria Santo Spirito! It was a delicious gnocchi in truffle oil.

My view every day walking to class. Not a bad life!

One thing I have already come to realize is that no matter where you go, the food is always amazing. I have yet to have one complaint about anything I have eaten; it is just all so delicious. In addition to the food, one of the first things I noticed were the breathtaking views in Florence. Whether looking at the intricate details of an old building, looking down a street of cute shops and restaurants, or crossing over the Arno seeing the Ponte Vecchio, it is all stunning. The city is so quaint and I love the neighborhood of the Oltrarno. I cannot wait to experience more adventures and become more immersed in Italian culture. As for the first few days, I could not have asked for a better start!

My roommate and I walking along the Arno to explore for the day!

___
Jennifer is a student at University of Maryland studying at Florence University of the Arts during the Spring 2014 term.