Ciao! My name is Jared and this is my page highlighting my adventures during my time studying abroad. I welcome you to follow along as highlight some of the most memorable moments of my first time being in Italy. I have never traveled outside of North America, so coming on this trip would be the opportunity of a lifetime.

During my time here in Florence, everyday interactions with the people had the biggest impact on my life. It made me realize that we mustn’t simply go through the motions of life as they come to us. By this I mean, we should slow down and appreciate what is happening in the now. Due to the language barrier, the interactions with the locals really made me concentrate on every word and message I was trying to convey. Although this was challenging at times, it made me focus on the situation at hand and felt more rewarding. As a result, friendships were made and it made me appreciate their culture a little more. Everyday, I feel like people take simple interactions for granted when there is so much more that can be gained if one takes the time to engage in genuine conversation. Being here in Florence has helped me realize that gaining other people’s perspective on their world view can help you shape your own. That is why when I go back home, I want to take that sliver in time to simply acknowledge the moment that I am having with another human being. Who knows? Something more meaningful could be gained if we take the time to slow down and acknowledge life for what it offers us.

Museums & Site Seeing

One of my favorite and most influential visits was the Bargello Tour. It was one of my favorite experiences because it was one of the few museums we visited that focused primarily on the sculptures. As a kinesiology student, I enjoyed looking at the statue, seeing the work of the artist and their skill to craft an accurate depiction of the human body out of stone. This tour, specifically, was influential because of how the tour guide talked about Cosimo the Elder. Listening to the story of how he created alliances by being considerate of his neighbors cultures affirmed my belief about the importance of being respectful to others. Cosimo was the most powerful and influential man of Florence during his time, and he wouldn’t have gotten to his position if it weren’t for his ability to make relations with people. It is a reminder to me of the importance to be open minded and be considerate to everyone’s point of view because by doing so it can further your success.

The best moments of my trip were the ones spent with the people closest to me. Over the six weeks, I became very close with my roommates. It didn’t take long for us to have open conversation and to be comfortable with one another. I believe experiences are derived from the people that you surround yourself with. If you are with the right people, you can make the best out of any situation. I am thankful towards the people I have met because they have changed my life for the better.

Arrivederci!