When I first arrived to Florence, I’ll admit I was very overwhelmed.  I first arrived to my apartment and felt very alone and unsure of what was to lie ahead of me.  After I took a short walk from my apartment, I discovered the Duomo and the quaint Piazza San Pier Maggiore.  I spoke to locals with the small Italian I knew and got around fairly easily.  My apartment is wonderful, very spacious and modern, but still very Italian.  Every time I discover a new area of the city, I fall in love all over again.

The orientation was very important and helpful with becoming knowledgeable of all the wonderful events SAI and FUA offer as well as tips to adjusting to the Italian lifestyle.  I first noticed the large amounts of small businesses and the friendly people that own them.  Everyone here is very welcoming and helpful; I never hesitate to ask for help.  One of the first few days after arriving here I was offered a walking tour of the city of Florence.  Our guide Martina, a teacher at FUA, offered us an insider’s look of the city as well as an opportunity to see an Artisan workshop.  My adjustment to this new Italian lifestyle becomes easier every day.  I am excited to travel more and learn more about the culture as the semester continues on.

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Rachel is a current student at Richard Stockton College studying at Florence University of the Arts in Italy during the Fall 2014 term.