My Study Abroad Experience in Florence

Adjusting To a New Country 

As a college student who goes out of state for school, I wasn’t extremely worried about moving to a new country for a semester. However, as my semester abroad started inching closer, that original worry-free headspace began to disappear. I had so many unanswered questions and began to convince myself that maybe studying abroad wasn’t for me. Luckily, I was able to communicate beforehand with CEA CAPA program staff, as well as other students studying in Florence with CEA CAPA. Instantly, I was reminded of the amazing support system that the CEA CAPA program would give me, as well as all of the amazing things that studying abroad could give. Now, I am over two months into my program, and I realize I had nothing to worry about. 

My mom and I at the airport right before my flight to Florence! 

Academic Life with CEA CAPA   

In the States, I focus a lot on working hard in school, and I wanted to maintain the same mentality while studying abroad. I knew coming into this program, I would have plenty of opportunities that didn’t revolve directly around my education. However, that didn’t change my motivation to maintain solid grades; it honestly made it stronger. I wanted to find ways in which I could be proactive and stay organized. 

Luckily, CEA CAPA is the best program to help with this. I find that every one of my classes is interesting and I have to work hard in them, yet they aren’t overwhelming. If I stay on top of my schoolwork, then I am able to travel, socialize, and find new adventures to go on. Personally, every one of my professors wants their students to do well. I have found myself emailing or reaching out to them directly, and within no time I get my questions answered. 

What my weekly Canvas dashboard usually looks like for assignments! 

The Social Benefits CEA CAPA Provides 

I came into my study abroad semester not knowing what to expect in terms of my new social life. For instance, I had only met my three roommates briefly for about an hour prior to our move-in date, so in all honesty I was pretty nervous. However, once I arrived in Florence, my roommates and I clicked right away. We all bonded over the fact that all of us had met another random CEA CAPA student at the airport on our way to Florence. It felt like I went from not knowing anyone at all, to now instantly being surrounded by so many amazing people in the same boat as I am in.  

Some of the friends I’ve made so far through CEA CAPA! 

Soon after arriving, we all were able to meet up with those we met at the airport, and now after two months we all frequently hang out (we’ve even gone on some weekend trips together). One of my favorite memories however, was a field trip that CEA CAPA provided for us. Me, my three roommates, and four other girls who we had met through this program, signed up for a spa day field trip and a walking tour of Arezzo, Italy. CEA CAPA offered a great day trip, and all students were able to sign up and go. We first arrived in Arezzo and were given the freedom to roam around the cute Tuscan city. After about an hour, we bussed to a place that had multiple hot springs and other relaxing amenities for all students to try out. This excursion took place right before midterms, so it was a great calming break in the middle of all of the studying. 

The charming city of Arezzo! 

What I Am Looking Forward To & Some Concluding Thoughts 

It's hard to believe that I am over halfway done with my study abroad experience. I have met the best people, experienced the coolest adventures, and was given such a rewarding academic experience. However, there is still so much to look forward to. In a few weeks, I will be going to Venice for another CEA CAPA excursion, and I couldn’t be more excited. I went to Venice a few weeks ago and loved it, even though it rained, and now I hopefully get to experience it in a little better weather!