My favorite class was Analyzing and Exploring the City of Florence. It was a class that I went into not knowing much about, but the professor gave the class a thorough understanding of Florentine history, culture, and norms. I was also able to understand the differences of culture in different parts of Italy (ex: Milan, Sorrento, Sicily, Rome).

I regularly visited local markets and coffee shops. These spaces became important points of connection, as they encouraged everyday interactions with local vendors and café owners. By frequenting the same coffee shop multiple times a week, I was able to form relationships through conversation. Visiting local markets also allowed me to practice the language and learn cultural norms. These experiences helped me step outside of my comfort zone, navigate language barriers, and develop a deeper appreciation for the local culture through meaningful engagement.