Studying Abroad In florence, italy

In the summer of 2025, I had the privilege of studying abroad in Florence, Italy for a month. During this time, I was able to explore the culture and craftsmanship of Italy while immersing myself in new material in ways I had never experienced before. I took an Art History class and a Fashion Forecasting course, both of which opened my eyes in completely different ways.

  In my Art History class, our three‑hour sessions were spent outside walking through Florence rather than sitting in a classroom. Instead of learning about famous artwork and historic sites through a screen, we were able to see them in person. Standing eye‑to‑eye with pieces that have existed for centuries was truly beautiful. Out of all the museums, churches, and scenic places we visited, two stood out to me the most. One of them was the Piazzale Michelangelo. Even though the walk up the steep hill was tough, the view at the top made every step worth it. Seeing all of Florence stretched out below was absolutely breathtaking.

In my Fashion Forecasting class, we had the opportunity to attend a tradeshow featuring new and upcoming knitwear for the winter season. We walked through the displays, examining the garments up close and seeing the textures and detailing that designers were introducing. It was impressive to witness how much artistry and complexity could be created from something as simple as yarn. I learned so much from fibers and seeing how one little thing can make an art piece. 

The combination of both of these classes together made me see not only the fashion in Italy, but also the history. You cannot have fashion without history, and vice versa. In my art history class, we got to go to a historical museum of preserved garments from centuries before ours. It was truly breathtaking to see original garments that were designer, or that significant historical figures were wearing. I feel that Florence was the perfect combination of both of those topics, and I know I still have much to learn. 

In conclusion, Florence changed how I see my future. I have a new perspective after seeing a different place. There are things for me to learn that I wouldn’t have even thought of from traveling. Learning not just in my classes I took, those classes taught me how to see the fashion and art world in Italy, instead of learning about it through lectures and textbooks.

Studying abroad has taught me that I do want to expand my horizons on where I want to possibly live, and where I will be the happiest. In Florence I felt present, because the people around me were and that is a good environment to surround myself with.