By Chris Hartman
For many students arriving in Florence, adjusting to a new country can take some time. A new language and atmosphere can sometimes create moments of culture shock or homesickness. There are many tips to help with the adjustment process and embrace life in Florence, and the FUA Student Life Department is a great resource for a comprehensive and detailed approach to experiencing your term abroad. In the meantime, here are a few immediate yet easy and essential tips for all students, regardless of how long you’re staying in Florence!
- Make an effort to go out of your comfort zone! There are plenty of restaurants and areas that are designed towards tourists, but push yourself to find more localized restaurants and nightlife. It can be very rewarding and help you feel like less like a tourist. This also forces you to practice Italian phrases which is the only way you will ever start to feel comfortable with a new language.
- Do something new every day! Florence is a small city, but it is filled with different activities and things to do. Do not let yourself let a day go by without enjoying all that is around you! Your time here is short. (Suggestion: Try a thematic approach, like a street or a square per day of exploration, or bookshops and/or minor museums. Have the day to yourself? Florence can be beautiful when enjoyed in solitude!)
- Stay off social media. Staying in touch with your friends and family back home is obviously important, but if you find yourself aimlessly browsing Facebook timelines or Instagram feeds and watching Youtube videos, it’s time to shut it off.
Life in Florence is such a great experience for students. It is important to transition as quickly as possible so you can spend your time enjoying what is around you. Hopefully these first tips provide a little insight into the transition into Italian culture. Have an open mind and have fun enjoying life in Florence!