Though I joined the community service opportunity a bit late, I am so thankful I did.  Being abroad has opened my eyes in many ways, and the experience of volunteering at  Zerolabs was no exception. It gave me a chance to connect with the local community, even  though I don’t fully understand Italian yet. 

At Zerolabs, I helped sort leather, clean, and organize their workspace. This  experience taught me the value of observation and being a helping hand, even when I  couldn’t communicate as easily. It grounded me and showed me the importance of  contributing, no matter how small the task. 

As a fashion student, it was also inspiring to see the work that goes into the  industry. Watching people do what could one day be my job was exciting and motivating.  Volunteering not only allowed me to give back but also gave me a deeper understanding of  the skills and processes involved in my field. 

Overall, this experience helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect, and I’m grateful for  the chance to contribute while also learning.

Written by: Tabitha, Spring 2025 Florence student from Belmont University