When I first arrived in Florence as a student from Florida State University’s Global Scholars program, I expected to learn about Italian culturea, conduct research, and experience life abroad. What I did not expect was how much living in another country would change the way I think about everyday life, community, and even my future career. As an Accounting and Economics student researching nonprofit financial sustainability, I came to Italy with academic goals, but the experience has already taught me lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.
Three Observations
1. Community is woven into everyday life.
One of the first things I noticed in Florence is how connected people seem to their communities. Whether it is neighbors chatting in a piazza, families gathering for long dinners, or local shop owners knowing their customers by name, relationships appear to be a central part of daily life. In the United States, life often feels fast-paced and focused on efficiency. In Florence, people seem to prioritize connection just as much as productivity.
2. History is part of the present.
In Florence, history is not something you only learn about in textbooks. It is everywhere. Walking to class, I pass buildings, churches, and streets that have existed for centuries. What amazes me most is how people continue to live and work within these historic spaces. The city demonstrates that preserving history and embracing modern life can coexist.
3. Global issues often have local solutions.
My research focuses on nonprofit financial sustainability, which is the ability of nonprofit organizations to maintain the resources needed to fulfill their missions over time. Through my work and conversations in Italy, I have seen how local organizations address challenges within their communities. While many social and economic issues are global, solutions are often rooted in local relationships and community engagement.
Two Surprises
1. Studying abroad feels different than traveling.
Before coming to Florence, I had visited Italy before, but living here has been a completely different experience. Instead of seeing only major tourist attractions, I have experienced daily life. I have learned how to navigate public transportation, grocery shop, manage a schedule in another country, and adapt to cultural differences. These everyday experiences have taught me more about Italy than any short vacation could.
2. Growth often happens outside your comfort zone.
I expected to learn through research and coursework, but some of my most valuable lessons have come from situations that initially felt uncomfortable. Whether communicating across language barriers, adjusting to different customs, or navigating unfamiliar situations independently, each challenge has increased my confidence. I have learned that personal growth rarely happens when everything feels familiar.
One Question
How can we bring the best aspects of different cultures together?
One question I continue to think about is how societies can combine the strengths of different cultural approaches. In the United States, innovation, ambition, and efficiency are often emphasized. In Italy, I have observed a strong appreciation for community, history, and quality of life. Rather than viewing these values as competing priorities, I wonder how we can integrate the best of both perspectives.
As I continue my Global Scholars experience, I hope to explore this question further. My time in Florence has already challenged many of my assumptions and broadened my perspective. More importantly, it has reminded me that learning does not only happen through research projects or academic coursework. Sometimes the most meaningful lessons come from observing the world around you and being open to seeing it through a different lens.
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