It is hard to believe December has finally come and I will be leaving in just over a week. Finishing my study abroad semester is definitely a bittersweet feeling. Although I am sad to be leaving Florence, I am glad to be returning home for Christmas with my family. Looking back at what I wanted to see before coming here, I have definitely surpassed those expectations. I wanted to travel all around Italy as well as several other countries. I have successfully visited 10 other countries since arriving to Europe such as Italy itself, Germany, France, Belgium, Amsterdam, Spain, Greece, Switzerland, Britain, and Ireland. Although I want to stay and travel more, I can say I am completely happy and content with my experiences abroad.

Studying abroad in itself is a wonderful and beneficial learning experience. I have learned to become comfortable in my Italian language skills and have spoken to many locals around Italy. Self-sufficiency has been one of the most vital skills I have learned abroad. I have changed, probably more than I have noticed. I am never hesitant to try new things. If I want to travel somewhere or just browse around the local markets, I don’t let the fact of going by myself stop me. I find myself much more open-minded in general and now have an even stronger desire to travel the world. I may have explored many parts of Europe, however, Florence will always have that feeling of home.

This experience has impacted my future, particularly in the job market. I feel my experiences here have made me a stronger candidate in the business world. The skills I have learned here are marketable for my resume such as interpersonal skills, communication skills, and organizational skills. My semester abroad has broadened my horizons for my future, particularly in my career. Some things I will bring with me are the few dishes I have learned to cook here in Florence and my appreciation and knowledge of wine I learned in my class. My semester abroad may have ended, but I’ll always have my home away from home in Florence.