I could have never imagined how much this study abroad experience would change me. I have learned so much and I have only been here for a little over a month! When I walk around Florence, I no longer feel like a lost and uncomfortable tourist in a strange country instead I feel a sense of belonging as though I am a Florentine and this is my home.

Not only am I comfortable with this city but I have also made some great friends. Initially I thought that being placed in an apartment with six other girls would be a challenge; however, it is like I am having a sleepover with my best friends every single night. That sounds cheesy but I have made some lifelong friends here who I know I will keep in touch with even when I return home.

Since my first blog, I have traveled a lot around Italy (including Carnevale in Venice, Carnevale in Viareggio, Castello di Volognano, and San Gimagnano) and also to Prague. With every trip, I embark upon an exciting adventure. I never know what experiences await me but I always know that I will learn something new. This ability to learn is probably what I love most about my study abroad trip. Every day I am faced with challenges: trying to understand Italian, trying to find my place within Florence, even simple tasks such as buying postage stamps can become an ordeal. However, dealing with these difficulties is the most important lessons I have learned throughout my college career. I am forced to adapt to new situations and to learn to let go of certain things. The most important thing I am forced to do however is to see the world through a different perspective. When I traveled to Prague it was a very eye opening experience (second to traveling to Italy).  The Czech Republic has not had an easy past and the scars of that past are still present today. Seeing the ramifications of World War II and communism provided me with a new perspective and appreciation for life.

I know I have more to learn and that my adventures are not over but the thought that I am almost half way finished with this experience is depressing. I am starting to become attached to Florence and the Italian lifestyle. Leaving this gorgeous country is going to be harder than I ever imagined. However, knowing this stay in Italy is not permanent makes me want to make the most out of my remaining days.

Samantha – Northern Illinois University