Upon moving to Florence, Italy, I was eager to spend my time not only traveling and learning, but also engaging directly with my local community. Having grown up between France and the United States, the opportunity to volunteer and teach English to students in Florence was one of the most meaningful experiences I could have ever had. It was truly a full-circle moment to support others in developing language skills that have played such an important role in my own life. Teaching English abroad showed me not only the impact of language, but also the importance of engaging with the local community. Rather than simply passing through Florence as a visitor, I was able to contribute in a small but meaningful way, and in return, I learned so much from the students and teachers I worked with. This experience pushed me outside of the “study abroad bubble” and allowed me to form more authentic connections with my city.
My first day volunteering at a Florence elementary school! While I was very nervous, this experience ended up being one of my most cherished experiences of my study abroad.
Volunteering at first was really scary: I had to navigate public transport, go by myself outside of the city center, and work with and communicate with only Italian native speakers. I remember feeling nervous before my first day, unsure if I would be able to keep up or truly be helpful in the classroom.
My solo trip to Palermo, Sicily was one of the highlights of my semester abroad! I never would have imagined being able to travel alone before this semester, and I am so thankful for my newfound independence and confidence in doing this alone!
The biggest lessons of my study abroad were not those in the classroom, but in the mundane, day-to-day life of living 5,000 miles away from home. Pushing myself to do things alone became one of the most valuable parts of my experience. Each small success: figuring out a bus route, navigating English and Italian translations, or simply showing up—built my confidence over time. Eventually, what once felt intimidating became routine, and even something I looked forward to each week.
As I say my goodbyes to Florence, I remain eternally grateful for the lessons this city, and community, taught me!
This confidence didn’t just stay within my volunteer work: it translated into other parts of my life, from traveling alone to even going on a solo trip. I became more comfortable relying on myself and trusting my instincts in unfamiliar situations.
While I am sad to leave Florence, I am so grateful for this experience and leave with a newfound independence, sense of self, and confidence in my abilities. For incoming students, my biggest advice is to step outside your comfort zone and engage with your local community: it will shape your experience in ways you don’t expect!
Written by: Katelyn, Spring 2026 Florence student from University of South Carolina
