University of Wisconsin–Madison

Italy: Lily Smith

Program: Santa Reparata International School of Art (SRISA), Spring

Major: Journalism

How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?

The academics at my program, SRISA, were very different from taking classes at UW-Madison. Since SRISA is an art school, I was able to take a lot of classes that took me out of my comfort zone. With classes like Italian Cinema and Italian Food and Culture, I was able to learn so much about different forms of Italian culture, and I really appreciated it.

The skyline of Florence at dusk, viewed from a hill, with the duomo prominently featured.
The view of Florence from the Piazzale Michelangelo that I visited during my Exploring Florence class.

What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?

Through living in Florence, I learned that I don’t mind taking it slow and doing things on my own. Living abroad taught me that there are so many experiences to be had in the unknown. Don’t let anyone hold you back from going to places you really want to go or doing things you really want to do.

quotation mark
Since SRISA is an art school, I was able to take a lot of classes that took me out of my comfort zone.

How did your identities impact your experience? What advice would you give to students with similar identities who are considering a similar experience?

As a first-generation college student and as the first person in my family to travel abroad, I was very new to the experience of living abroad. I would advise students to do a lot of research and try to immerse themselves in the culture while being respectful of other cultures. Always listen and try to learn from locals.

A river at dusk, lined by old buildings, with a bridge in the background and three kayakers in the water.
A view of the Arno River from the Ponte Vecchio during an Exploring Florence class tour.

What is a custom, food or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward? 

In Italy, they treat meals with great respect and consider them a communal experience with loved ones. They don’t rush into meals and go on their phones while eating. I want to consider this moving forward, as it helped me slow down and appreciate the little things life has to offer.