I began my study abroad experience on Via Ricasoli 21, tucked near the beating heart of Florence, Italy. As someone who had never stepped foot outside the United States before, I wasn’t sure what to expect — but from the very first day, everything felt like a dream (a very well-organized, croissant-filled dream). Each morning began the same way — warm, flaky croissants bursting with chocolate or vanilla cream, paired with café lattes made with the kind of care that only Italians can deliver. We’d grab our breakfast from the café right below our apartment, exchanging a cheerful “Ciao!” with the barista who quickly memorized our orders. Then, it was time for class.

Our coursework was focused on the ethics of nursing, and the conversations were anything but dull. We dove deep into powerful and sometimes controversial topics like euthanasia, abortion and universal health care. What made it even more meaningful was comparing how these issues are viewed in the U.S. versus in Italy — a reminder that health care isn’t just about science, it’s about culture, values and humanity, too. After class, our learning continued outside the classroom. We toured local hospitals, getting a firsthand look at their ICUs, emergency rooms and even their ambulance systems. We sat in on discussions about organ donation planning, and saw how compassion and efficiency worked together in a different health care setting. And then, of course, there was Florence itself — an open-air museum waiting to be explored.

We wandered the cobblestone streets, sometimes purposefully and sometimes just letting the city guide us. The Duomo took our breath away (both literally and figuratively if you braved the climb), and seeing Michelangelo’s David up close felt surreal. One morning, we hiked up to the Piazzale Michelangelo at sunrise, watching golden light spill over the terracotta rooftops. In the evenings, we danced through the streets, following the rhythms of street musicians and soaking up the energy of a city that never seems to sleep. What truly made the experience special were the people. We met locals who welcomed us like old friends, shared meals that stretched into hours, and swapped stories about everything from favorite childhood snacks to weekend rituals. There were a lot of laughs and a few language mishaps.

This was more than just a study abroad program — it was a moment in time that I’ll carry with me forever. I made lifelong friends, not just with classmates, but with people from across the world who reminded me how big and beautiful life can be when you step out of your comfort zone. If you’re planning a trip to Florence — or anywhere in Italy — my biggest piece of advice is to go in with an open mind and a curious heart. Be sure to download the local train and bus apps ahead of time; navigating public transportation is simple once you’re familiar with the system, and it opens up the entire city (and beyond) to you. Don’t be afraid to say yes to new experiences, whether that’s trying squid ink pasta or hopping into a local celebration you stumble upon by accident. Every day brings something new, and you’ll want to taste, see and experience as much as you can — so try not to eat the same thing twice! Even small efforts to speak Italian — like saying “grazie” with a smile or greeting shopkeepers with a “buongiorno” — go a long way in connecting with locals. And finally, remember to slow down. Florence has a rhythm all its own, and it’s best appreciated when you’re walking, watching, and letting the city surprise you. Grazie, Firenze. You gave me more than I could’ve ever imagined.

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Learn more about this blogger’s study abroad program: Nursing Ethics in Italy