Ryan Leone, CEA CAPA in Florence, Fall 2025
What stood out to me most about Florence was how easily I felt connected to the city, while I was always learning something new. Florence is full of history, but it never felt like I was just visiting a museum. People live their everyday lives surrounded by art, architecture, and traditions that go back hundreds of years, and that made the experience feel very real and personal. From the second I got to Florence; I was truly amazed at the vast number of historical monuments all over the city. After spending 3.5 months in Florence, I was able to grasp the importance and effect of the art and history of the city. One of the most noticeable differences was the pace of life. Florence moves more slowly than I was used to in the United States. People take time to enjoy meals, conversations, and even simple routines like getting coffee or shopping at local markets. At first, this slower pace felt unfamiliar, but over time it helped me become more present and appreciative of my surroundings. Once I truly adjusted to this new pace of life, I was able to enjoy my time more thoroughly. My study abroad program encouraged exploration beyond the classroom. Getting to class meant walking through historic streets, and everyday activities became learning experiences. I learned more about Italian culture just by observing how people interacted with each other, how businesses operated, and how each neighborhood functioned as a small community. Florence also stood out because it pushed me to become more independent. Whether that meant I had to navigate public transportation, manage daily responsibilities, or communicate in another language, I was constantly learning how to adapt. These challenges helped me grow more confident in myself and my ability to handle unfamiliar situations. Overall, Florence stood out because it felt welcoming while still pushing me to grow. It allowed me to learn academically, experience a new culture, and develop important life skills simultaneously. Living there made studying abroad feel meaningful and rewarding every single day.
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