UN MESE ALL’ESTERO! E la realtà

It’s officially been a month in Florence, and it has been a whirlwind!

I’d like to begin by recognizing the heartache and pain currently felt by the families of those who lost their lives in the shootings at Evergreen High School in Colorado and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Michigan, which was also burned down. My heartfelt support stands with them. As a member of both of these communities, processing this news while abroad has made moments of reflection and gratitude essential for maintaining a healthy mindset. 

Let’s begin with some highlights 

I finally got to meet the students! As I mentioned in my previous blog, my internship is at a local high school that specializes in the arts. Our first day involved conversation practice with lots of “get to know you” questions. Little did I know, they were all about me. Though surprising at first, I soon found myself teaching students about the best hikes in Colorado and where to find the best ice cream in mountain towns.

In the days that followed, we practiced practical conversations that students might use in daily life. My goal is to help them gain confidence in the language so they can build a strong foundation for their future careers. I also managed to get lost on my way to the school about three times and still arrived just 30 seconds before the bell rang. Such a blessing!

In my business courses, we discussed how modernization and shifting consumer preferences affect global companies. As part of this, we visited the Gucci Museum to learn how the brand has managed to stay competitive over the years. In preparation for a conference this weekend, I spent three full days studying for all of my classes. It was a ton of work, but so worth it!

On Sunday, I met an American couple at church who mentioned they were going to Pisa. Before I knew it, I heard myself asking, “Can I go with you?” That evening, we took a quick 30-minute trip to see the Leaning Tower. I don’t usually consider myself spontaneous, but moments like these remind me how rewarding it can be.

Taking care of yourself while abroad

As a student abroad, you’re often balancing multiple responsibilities: planning your next trip, staying on top of your classes, preparing for midterms, managing your expenses, and, eventually, planning your return. You might need to secure housing (or keep paying rent back home), plan for next semester, and maybe even prepare to return to work. All of this happens while adjusting to life in a new country.

It can feel stressful or exciting. As unexpected challenges come your way, finding ways to maintain a positive mindset becomes increasingly important. This was especially true after hearing about the recent events in the U.S. For me, returning to my center meant morning runs, yoga, and prayer. For others, it might mean exploring a new place, talking to someone you trust, playing music, or engaging in other (hopefully healthy) habits that bring peace.

I know this week’s post is shorter, but I have more exciting updates and practical tips to share next time. Stay tuned!