Italy: Audrey Watzka
Program: UW in Florence, Spring
Major: Political Science; Psychology
How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?
My classes abroad were very different than the courses I take on campus at Madison. As someone with two majors and two certificates, I rarely have space in my schedule to take classes not related to my degree. This made me so much more appreciative of the unique classes I could take in Italy. Although CET offered a psychology class, the course equivalent would not give me credit towards my psychology major, so I chose to take all new courses unrelated to my academic interests. I loved taking such special classes in a unique environment that prioritized learning outside of the classroom so we could study Florence’s history and traditions. We visited palaces, museums, gardens, churches, and more, which all taught us different aspects about Florence’s past and present.
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
My favorite thing to do in Florence was watching the sunset over the city with my roommates and friends at Piazzale Michelangelo. This stop is popular for a reason and definitely worth the walk up the surrounding hills. The views all the way up and especially at the top are incredible and give such a unique view of the city, letting us spot all of the famous buildings we studied in our classes. I especially love the community that formed there every time I visited, even among strangers. There were people from all over dancing and singing along to live music together, appreciating the beautiful city. I also saw so many newly married couples while enjoying the view, which really shows how much love and joy people share in Florence. Even after going so many times, I was always shocked by how gorgeous the city is from above.
I loved taking such special classes in a unique environment that prioritized learning outside of the classroom so we could learn about Florence’s history and traditions.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
I would suggest taking advantage of every program activity! CET worked so hard to organize and provide dozens of free activities for its students. We got to explore Florence and Tuscany, try new foods and traditions, make our own pottery, go hiking and river rafting on the Arno, and so much more. I especially loved the activities where we were able to share conversations and experiences with local Italians. It was so cool to interact with people who actually grew up and still live in Florence. I also enjoyed getting to know the staff who work at CET and learning about their lives in Florence.
What is a custom, food or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward?
One of the less formal customs I noticed while living in Florence was Italian’s tendency to truly value spending time with friends and family. Although Americans also do this, Italians truly prioritize slowing down and enjoying time with those around them. This is reflected in their aperitivo tradition where Italians meet to talk and build community each day. They deemphasize constantly working and instead spend more time with each other, walking more slowly, talking more, and appreciating their time. Most coffee shops in Florence and beyond have rules banning computers to encourage social interaction. While very different than what I’m used to in Madison, I came back motivated to spend less time on my devices or rushing to and from locations and instead slow down, look around, and appreciate all of the blessings in my life.