Watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, in Florence, Italy.

What is your favorite memory from studying abroad?

I can’t pick just one favorite memory from abroad, so I’ll share a few of my favorites. My friends and I went horseback riding in Pompei. The scenery was stunning, as we were surrounded by vineyards and Mt. Vesuvius. We had a fantastic lunch afterwards, which included tasting the delicious wine made fresh on the farm. That was a day I’ll never forget.

On our vespa tour in Tuscany.

I’ll also never forget going Vespa riding through Tuscany and afterwards, enjoying an amazing, home cooked meal in a wine cellar. Another favorite memory of mine is when my roommates and I hiked the Path of the Gods along the Amalfi Coast. We ended in Positano just in time to watch the sunset and then went night swimming in the Mediterranean.

Wine tasting and the first part of lunch after our vespa ride.

What did you learn about yourself when you were abroad? How have you changed?

Something I learned about myself abroad is that I am more courageous and brave than I realized. Going into the program and not knowing a single person or what to expect, I became very adaptable in my environment and I was just myself, which led me to making life long friends and having the best experience. I would say that I am more fearless and bold in my everyday life. When I was in Italy, I saw someone wearing a shirt that said, “Do one thing everyday that scares you.” I found myself implementing that abroad and now at home too.

Positano sunset.

What was your favorite thing to do in your host city?

One of my favorite things I did in my host city was pick up the BEST sandwiches in Sorrento from A’Marrena Bakery with my roommates. Afterwards, we would head down to Marina Grande for the day and enjoy the beach. Another favorite thing we did in Sorrento was hike to Bagni della Regina Giovanna, which in English translates to “Baths of the Queen Giovanna.” It is a swimming hole in Sorrento with cliffs all around. If you are staying in Sorrento or just visiting for the day, I highly recommend going to this incredible place!

Overlooking the Amalfi Coast.

What surprised you most about your study abroad city/culture?

What surprised me most about Sorrento and the culture was Siesta Time, also known as “riposo” to Italians. I honestly could not believe that during the early afternoon hours, locals close down their stores and go enjoy siesta time. This concept was so foreign to me, and it was a reminder to slow down, enjoy the experience, and take it all in.

Our favorite sandwiches in Sorrento, from A’Marenna Bakery.

Brittney was a summer 2019 Sorrento student University of Florida.