My friends and I during the very first week of the program watching the sunset over San Lorenzo

Hi! My name is Riley and I studied abroad in Florence, Italy with SAI during the Spring 2025 semester. I have absolutely loved my time in Florence and cannot thank SAI for this opportunity. One of the most influential parts of my time here was the opportunity to volunteer at a local elementary school where I helped teach English to third and fourth graders. This was such a unique experience where I was able to practice my Italian language skills with the students while helping them learn English and try to communicate through a language barrier. The children brought such joy to the classroom everyday, as did all of the teachers, it was truly a pleasure to be able to go to the school every week.

My friend Natalie and I in the Sahara Desert in Morocco (say yes to all the trips!)

I feel that I learned about as much from the students as they did from me. Another major part of my experience abroad was being able to travel to so many different countries and experience a diverse range of cultures. To future study abroad students my biggest piece of advice is to say yes as much as you can and really try to do things that you might be scared of. I was able to travel to some of the coolest places I have ever been and I’m so glad I said yes to all of those trips.

Me in front of the Duomo, the most amazing view to have for four months

This is a unique time in your life where you have the opportunity to see the world fairly easily, so take full advantage. I even recommend doing a solo trip at one point as well! I was so afraid to do one, but knew I had to, and ended up having one of the best weekends and absolutely loving the city I visited (Copenhagen)!

Written by: Riley, Spring 20205 Florence student from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University