My final day in Florence has been bittersweet. This morning, we delivered our final consulting presentations to our companies, professors, and classmates. We also completed our last Finance exam — thankfully, both went smoothly! Tonight, we’ll celebrate with a Farewell Dinner, and I’m looking forward to one last hoorah with everyone in the program. At the same time, I’m eager to return home to the U.S. to reunite with my family, friends, my dog Stella, and the comfort of my bed.
I’m incredibly grateful for this experience. Throughout this program, I’ve not only expanded my knowledge in International Finance and Business through our classes, consulting projects, company visits, and city tours — I’ve also grown personally in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve learned to navigate uncertainty, plan trips independently, and operate confidently in unfamiliar environments. These are life skills I’ll carry with me far beyond this trip.
I’m especially proud of the progress our group has made together. We began as 31 strangers and are leaving as 31 friends. It’s been a joy getting to know everyone, both inside and outside the classroom. I also feel fortunate to have been taught and guided by Dr. Lane and Dr. Rossi, whose leadership and support were essential in making this journey so impactful. I look forward to reconnecting with them and my peers back at Mays.
Living in Italy has shifted my perspective in meaningful ways. I came into this program — like many American students — assuming that U.S. culture and business practices were the global standard. But I’ve come to appreciate how much value there is in different approaches. The Italian way of life, with its emphasis on relationships, tradition, and balance, is something I’ve grown to deeply admire. It’s a reminder that there is no single “right” way to live or work — just different ways, each with its strengths. This realization will shape how I approach global interactions in both my personal life and future career.
This study abroad experience has been nothing short of transformative. It has challenged me, inspired me, and left me with memories and friendships I’ll carry forever. I would wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone fortunate enough to have the chance, because some lessons can only be learned when you step outside your comfort zone and into a different corner of the world.
Ciao Firenze! I will be back.
