What inspired you to go abroad?
The opportunities that studying abroad offered seemed priceless. Between extended intercultural immersion, the cheapest opportunities to travel, and the possibility of a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend a semester abroad, it was not too difficult to decide.
Why did you choose SAI Programs?
I was going abroad with two friends so we all decided on this program.
What was your favorite part about Florence?
This is a very difficult question. I would have to say the environment and landscapes. I loved...LOVED running in Florence. I know, crazy, the odds of getting hit by a bike or car were high but the fresh air and scenery made it oh so worth it. I could gush on and on about what those runs meant to me. I have never run for further distances at faster times or been more grateful for the ability to move my body. Small moments like this made my time abroad uniquely special.
What made your experience abroad unique?
I took advantage of "me time." This may sound crazy but my time abroad was my break from reality, a time of contemplation and reflection on how far I had come both physically and mentally. I let myself stop obsessing over being an ideal student, a perfect, well-rounded, homework-obsessed student. So worth it.
Like I said...the views....
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
SAI was helpful to the extent that they made us think for ourselves and be independent but still know that there was someone who could help us when needed.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
Bought more paintings?!
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
Classes, walking, classes, eating and waiting for weekend trips!! Of course museum and class trips were sprinkled in there as well but the traveling was a highlight of the week!
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
Traveling was a huge component of my time abroad. Piazza Michelangelo was also a spot that drew me often.
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
So spacious! We lucked out and got probably the biggest apartment three girls could have gotten.
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
Keep your mind open! Be willing to be uncomfortable with the knowledge that it will bring about confidence and self-awareness.
What was the hardest part about studying abroad?
The hardest part about studying abroad was the application process as well as trying to budget while abroad! The culture shock was really not a problem though!
What surprised you most about Florence?
The atmosphere. It was like walking into another world/time. It still does not seem real.
My Mom and younger sister traveled to Rome when they visited, what a great background!
How difficult was it to communicate with locals?
Somewhat difficult because you do not want to offend those who live in the place you are only visiting. Being friendly and exceptionally polite is always a good idea when meeting/greeting someone you do not know on a personal level especially while traveling.
What is one thing you wish you would have known before studying abroad in Italy?
I wish I would have known how invaluable a sketch book would have been for capturing moments you will never get back!
If you could study abroad again, where would you go?
As much as I would love to go back to Florence, I would consider Barcelona or London as well!
What do you feel the biggest benefit of studying abroad is?
Travel experience, life experience, experience in general! Getting to know yourself more is also a side-effect of an experience without your family around!
Do you have any packing tips for individuals headed to Florence?
You will regret over-packing when you are traveling and hauling luggage all over the city's beautiful but tiny cobblestone streets!
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
I am forever changed. It does not seem real. I feel as though I am a different person and the experience happened to someone else. I am grateful but confused. Waiting...for my next adventure!
Would you recommend SAI Programs to others? Why?
Absolutely! Becoming an SAI Ambassador is enough proof of how much I enjoyed the program/provider! I want to keep my abroad experience close by remaining an Ambassador as long as possible!
