As I reflect on my time in Florence, it’s hard to believe how quickly a month passed. Going into this study abroad program, I was mostly excited for the food, the art, and getting to explore a new country. What I didn’t expect was how much this experience would shift the way I view international business, culture, and even my own personal values. One of the most valuable parts of the program was working directly with local businesses like Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina, The St. Regis Florence, Circular Farm, and for me personally Zerolab. Through these consulting projects, we were able to get a firsthand look at how business operates in a completely different cultural and economic environment. Rather than just learning theory, we were applying our knowledge to real world problems, learning strategies based on each client’s unique goals and challenges. That hands on experience pushed me to think more critically and approach problems with an open mind. Something that stood out almost immediately was the importance of relationships in Italian business culture. Back in the US, things often move quickly and efficiently, and meetings are usually straight to the point. In Florence, it was the opposite. People took time to get to know each other. Conversations weren’t just about business, they were about building trust. At first, this slower pace felt weird and odd, but I quickly learned how much more meaningful those connections became because of it. Before this trip, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what studying abroad would be like. I assumed I’d learn a few things, see some sights, and enjoy some pasta. But what I gained went far beyond that. I’ve become more comfortable with ambiguity, more thoughtful in how I communicate, and more aware of the importance of cultural sensitivity in professional spaces. This experience didn’t just make me a better student, it made me a better future professional. I’ll carry these lessons with me as I move forward, knowing now that good business isn’t just about strategy or numbers, it’s about people, empathy, and understanding different perspectives. Forever grateful for this experience and with the people I shared it with!
