Category: Inspiring

My Family in Florence: Bringing One Home to Another

written by Lily Carroll for Special Project: Experiential Learning in Journalism

When I chose to study abroad in Florence for the entire summer, I took a giant leap out of my comfort zone. Back home in Minnesota, my family is my whole life. As the sixth of seven children, my siblings and parents are my absolute best friends. My few experiences traveling have always been with at least one family member, with the exception of going to and from my campus in Missouri. Being someone who experiences lots of anxiety surrounding separation and travel, I knew that this opportunity would challenge me in the areas that have always restricted me.

Going to school outside of my home state was my initial step toward overcoming my struggles, fostering strength through vulnerability. I grew my independence a tremendous amount and became accustomed to the environment at school. I had gotten so comfortable with my friends, my boyfriend, and my apartment, that the mundane became almost irritating. However, the idea of adventure seemed exhausting. The decision to spend the summer in Italy came with the hopes that some of my loved ones could share in this experience, and I was elated to hear of my family’s plans to visit.

The distance and time change caused me to miss my family very much upon arrival, but in the back of my mind I was already working towards seeing them again, showing them all I’ve learned since being here. Knowing that in a few short weeks I would be able to give my mom a hug and show her my new home would be what I looked forward to most. What I didn’t know was how quickly it would come — in all of the excitement of meeting new people, discovering a whole new culture, and falling in love with my internships and courses, the time flew by. 

Comfort washed over me when I saw my mom’s sweet smile, and I was so relieved to see a familiar face in a place I’m still getting to know. My mom and brother arrived, and I was home again. Together, we ventured to Venice, where we prioritized quality time, relaxation, and taking in the beauty of the water surrounding us. We came back to Florence, and I got to play tour guide for a few days, exploring the things I’ve seen and the things I still had yet to discover. 

We toured the Duomo and Galleria dell’Accademia, bringing life to the landmarks I’ve been passing by for over a month. My family got so excited over things I have gotten so used to. This gave me a newfound appreciation for the city around me and served as a good reminder of how lucky I am to have the opportunity to call this place home for a short period of time. While I am sad to see them go, I feel so lucky to have been able to show them around and combine my two homes for a week of love and appreciation. I will forever cherish our time together, and I can associate this place I love with the people I’ve missed so much.

Lived Moments

written by Valerie Tiscareno for Special Project: Experiential Learning in Journalism

This is a collection of photos showcasing places, things, and experiences that I would have liked to share with my dear friend who passed away in January. He passed away pursuing what he loved: photography. He was 19 years old when the accident happened, 4 months away from his 20th birthday.

We had always talked about the adventures we would go on as photographers. Our aspirations of working for National Geographic, traveling the world and seeing what it had to offer. I had told him my story of giving up my Quinceanera in order to travel in Europe.

I remember one of my last calls with him. I had told him I was finally going to Europe. I remember seeing his smile for one last time. The way his mouth curled up and the indents on his cheeks. That call felt like we were both going towards the path we had both talked about.

Here now, I am filled with memories of him, of things I wished to tell him. This collection of photos are my last adventure with him.

These photos were shot either how I think he would have taken them, or as photos I would have been excited to share with him. These all have been shot on the camera I met him with.

I remember him meeting me and the first thing we bonded about was photography. The next weekend he drove 4 hours to be able to take photos with me. I remember he thought my camera was a film camera and the disappointment on his face when I told him it was a digital camera.

This project is a reflection on the experiences we take for granted as living, but even more so, as lived moments. I challenge viewers not to think about the personal stylization or the absence of people; rather, look closer at how we as people decide to live our lives.

How Gratitude Shapes Culture Shock: Navigating Overwhelming Unfamiliarity

By Makenna Sowards

Studying abroad is no easy feat. You are dropped into a brand-new world with different etiquette, standards, expectations, and languages. It’s an overwhelming feeling, to say the least. My first week here, I think I saw every one of my new friends cry at some point. 

Continue reading How Gratitude Shapes Culture Shock: Navigating Overwhelming Unfamiliarity

Florence is a Morning Person

By Meredith Bach  

Florence, like a morning person, rises early and gets her work done in the first hours of the day. After all, when else would the piazzas and palaces come to life? Such a birth of movement and livelihood is only made possible by the rhythm and pulse of a Florentine morning. No sooner are the dark alleyways filling with light than the workings of the city inhale and breathe.

Continue reading Florence is a Morning Person

Then and Now: Studying Abroad in Florence

Brand smiles in front of duomo in Florence
My first day in Florence back in January, 2023, as well as my first time seeing the duomo!

By Caylee Brand

After four months spent studying abroad in Florence, I reflect on my favorite moments as well as lessons I’ve learned, and share some of my friends stories as well.

Continue reading Then and Now: Studying Abroad in Florence

The Joys of Remaining Present

By Becca Baitel

From the smells of fresh pastries blazing through the air on a warm, sunny morning to the vibrant hubbub and personality of the city, Florence has truly grown to be a second home to me after living here for a month. However, my study abroad experience has exposed me to a myriad of different emotions, many of which have been unpleasant and difficult to handle without the comfort of my family, friends, and most importantly, the gluten-free bakery down the street from my house. As time passes and reality begins to set in, battling homesickness, FOMO, and the stresses of school, traveling, and budgeting simultaneously can feel quite stifling. Learning how to radically accept and welcome feelings of joy, excitement, anticipation, and pleasure to coexist with ones of anxiety and stress is key to making the most of your study abroad experience. 

Continue reading The Joys of Remaining Present

Why Santo Spirito is a Visitor’s Best Introduction to Florence

By Becca Baitel

Firenze’s Santo Spirito neighborhood has an unparalleled, captivating charm which truly encapsulates the authentic Florentine experience. Walking down the street on a typical day, visitors can hear the sounds of bustling, open-air markets, smells of fresh produce, and the warm, inviting melody of church bells. Tucked away on the south side of the Arno River in the Oltrarno quarter, Santo Spirito is most notably home to the Basilica Santo Spirito, or the Church of the Holy Spirit. Donning a Renaissance architecture style, the church attracts the public on every day of the week except Wednesdays when it is closed. Behind its noticeably unadorned exterior in comparison to many other Florentine churches, its true beauty is displayed inside where visitors can discover some of Michelangelo’s earliest work, as well as the unique design and columns by architect, Filippo Brunelleschi. The Basilica faces the main square, which alone boasts plenty of trattorias, markets, galleries, and shops, catering to every age and interest. With its convenient location steps from the esteemed Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Santa Trinita bridges, Santo Spirito is a must-see for every traveler and student alike.

Continue reading Why Santo Spirito is a Visitor’s Best Introduction to Florence

Different places with breathtaking views in Florence

By Simona Berecka

After a brief time spent in Florence, I would like to share with you my experiences so far. I visited several places that are not difficult to reach and are worth visiting. I tried to find places with the most incredible views in this breathing city full of history. This article may help you to avoid the busy places and experience the ‘non-tourist’ atmosphere of the city. Everybody knows that Piazza Michelangelo is one of the most famous places in Florence with beautiful views, but there are also various places with exceptionally spectacular views as well, that you must see. I have chosen 3 places that are quite unknown and unique.

Continue reading Different places with breathtaking views in Florence