I arrived in Florence just four days ago, completely overwhelmed by what was ahead of me. It has yet to fully sink in that this city will be my home for the next four months. I feel extremely blessed to discover the charm and flavor the Florentine culture has to offer. I already feel like I won’t have enough time.

This city is sprinkled with such beautiful scenery, making it all the more easy to love. Even the smallest things like apartment keys to street signs seem like such a work of art. Studying graphic design, I want to appreciate the historic beauty that comes with a culture so responsible and influential in today’s art world.

Each day I find new neighborhoods that I want to explore. I have had multiple conversations with locals in the community about their favorite areas, restaurants, and things to do in Florence. I hope to fully immerse myself in the true Italian lifestyle, keeping my eyes open to learning the values, views, and identity of their way of life.

This experience will be one that encourages growth in my faith, my individualism, my knowledge, my talents, and so much more. I’m beyond excited to take advantage of every opportunity to learn more about this wonderful city.

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Laura is a student at Lipscomb University studying at Florence University of the Arts during the Fall 2013 term.