Italy: Elliana King (Final Reflections)

As my program approaches the end, I cannot stop thinking about how happy I am with the program I chose. Not only did I feel like the staff really cared for everyone, but they also provided the best opportunities to immerse ourselves in the culture. A few of my favorite activities we had were the gelato tour, a pasta cooking class, a hike and aperitivo through the countryside, having dinner with an Italian family, and rafting the Arno. With all of this, I felt like I truly got exposed to experiences I would not have had anywhere else.

Another aspect of studying abroad I have been reflecting on lately is the start of this journey. Coming to Florence, I did not know a single person, which was a little scary at first. In reality, most people are looking to make friends, so talk to everyone and invite people to little things throughout your day. You also do not know if other people are having a challenging time making friends, transitioning to a new country, or are just feeling homesick, so be extra kind to everyone within this new experience. Take every opportunity to be within the culture because you are only here, in this city, for so long. Try new foods, take part in traditions, and really try to live like a local.

 

Elliana King 

Hometown: Neenah, Wisconsin

Major: Nutritional Sciences

Program: UW in Florence

When I visited Italy in 2018, I fell in love with the way people lived. They spend quality time with the people they love and never take mealtimes for granted. Living in Florence would immerse me in the lifestyle of natives to acquire lessons on how to loosen up, be present in the moment, and not always be in such a rush. This program will allow me to become more culturally sensitive and specifically help me to learn the dietary differences between cultures in Italy and the United States.