What is the most important thing you have learned about yourself on this study Abroad? – Reece Maywald

The most important thing I have learned about myself on study abroad is that I generally enjoy traveling and trying new things. As clique as it may sounds, prior to this trip I really haven’t traveled that much because I thought I didn’t like it; I considered my self a homebody. But as these past four weeks come to an end, I have realized that home is a feeling and not necessarily a place. Florence became a home away from home, the same way College Station has. Having a home is about what you put into and the people you surround yourself with and I can, without a doubt, say I was surrounded by the most amazing people on this trip. Not only were they so supportive and kind, but they pushed me to try new things. We ate new food, saw new things, and traveled to so many different places; it was beyond thrilling and so fulfilling. Study abroad not only gave me a new sense of confidence, but it gave me so many new friends and fond memories. This trip pushed me out of the comfort zone and I don’t really plan on going back. People will always try to put you in boxes and convince you to believe their assumptions of you; this trip has taught me breakaway from people’s expectations and focus trying to figure who I really am and what I really want todo. I will forever be grateful for the lessons Florence, Italy has taught me.