Me next to the Ponte Vecchio. Although it was cloudy this day, the view was still outstanding.

Stepping off the plane I couldn’t believe I was finally in Italy. The air smelled fresher and all I could see were magnificent hills and buildings in the distance. Regardless of the jet lag I was experiencing, the only emotion I could feel was excitement. From the second I landed, I knew I was about to embark on the best 4 months of my life.  Taking my first stroll around the streets of Florence the eclectic smells coming from each restaurant and bakery made this reality kick in. Observing all of the buildings and churches from centuries ago was a magnificent view. The first day the weather was beautiful; it felt so nice finally being in warmer weather than in New York in the cold. Although the next 2 days were raining, it was nice to have that time to unpack and settle in.

The Via della Repubblica. This is definitely my favorite building so far. This was one of the first pictures I took upon arriving in Florence.

The very first thing that led me to realize the extreme differences in my new home compared to the life that I know back in New York was upon entering the front door of my apartment. As I gazed through the doorway, I could see an endless row of stairs in front of me. 4 flights of stairs and 56 steps later I realized I do not have all the comforts of home that I am used to. When I finally reached the top of the stairs and opened the front door, I became extremely enthusiastic and anxious about seeing my apartment. Luckily, a program representative from SAI was there when we arrived to assist us with our bags, show us around the apartment, and tell us a little bit about the city and places to go. The perfect combination of a cozy environment with a perfect Italian touch is now what I can happily call my home for the next 4 months. The apartment was equipped with all the necessities we needed for our stay.

The beautiful Duomo at night!

Having orientation the first day of being in Florence made the transition a lot easier. We went over life in Italy, ways to stay safe and take precaution, and valuable information about the program. Although it was confusing trying to find our way around the city the first few days, it wasn’t hard to adjust and figure my way around. People from all around the city were very friendly when I asked for directions while walking around and exploring.

My first Italian gnocchi meal here in Florence, Italy!

This experience thus far is already so amazing. I’ve met so many new people here and can’t wait to get more cultured in Florence. I’m eager to begin classes at Florence University of the Arts on Monday. Hearing the church bells ring from the Cathedral at noon and walking down the narrow, stone streets was just the beginning of my many experiences I am about to have.

The amazing nutella crepe I got from the bakery on the corner of the street next my apartment.

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Alexandra is a student at Penn State studying at Florence University of the Arts during the Spring 2014 term.