3 Pieces of Advice for Studying Abroad

Words and photos by Gianna Messia who studied abroad in Florence with ASA during Fall semester 2024.

Hello!

The biggest gap in studying abroad is the people you surround yourself with. Questions can run through your head like, "Who will I travel with?", "Will I be able to go out to dinner with other people throughout the week?", "Who will show me to my classes?"

Going abroad alone can be absolutely terrifying. There I said it.

But the unknown is the best part about going to study in another country.

I left the United States in August 2024 to study abroad, not knowing even one person who would be there with me. I can write to you now saying I have made my friends for life and, as I write this, we've just celebrated Thanksgiving together in Florence with 20 of us seated at the table.

It is important to know a few things before you go though, in order to have the best time finding friends abroad!

Meet New People

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Meeting new people during your first week is crucial. You'll be put into an orientation-like setting that will give you the chance to say, "Hello, My name is...and I'm from...". Even though these conversations can get repetitive, they are so important and you never know who you're going to connect with! Write their number down, follow them on Instagram, or ask for their Snapchat or WhatsApp! It can make you anxious to do so at first, but joining in on local nightlife is a fun aspect of studying abroad. Approaching people at bars or in social settings is one of the best ways to converse. I have met so many people from all over the world, Italians included, who have introduced me to new restaurants, local places, and shared recommendations of travel sites.

Travel

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Traveling alone can be scary, but it is something you should try at least once. Although it is fun to travel with friends, it can be a hassle to plan, communicate, and get yourselves to a certain place at a cheap price. Traveling alone can be quite relaxing and you may find yourself at ease with less pressure by doing this alone rather than with six other people. You'll learn a lot about yourself by doing this! On the other hand, you can travel with friends, but are you anxious about not finding a travel group? Have no fear! There are companies in Rome and Florence that you'll find will provide planned trips you can sign up for with other study abroad students. Signing up alone and attending the trip will group you with 20-25 other students that you can room with and attend events with and get to know along the way. It is the perfect opportunity to meet new people and explore new places. Along the way, you WILL find a travel group and other people that have the same interests as you. Just trust the process!

Keep an Open Mind

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Things may not always go as planned. This is one of the most important things to keep in mind when studying abroad. There could be cancellations, friendship troubles, feelings of homesickness. But that is 100% okay and 110% normal. It's helpful to surround yourself with familiar things when these feelings occur. I find myself Facetiming with my friends and family from home and occupying myself with some of my favorite things. I will take a walk or bring my book to the Piazza to read for a couple of hours before I go back to the chaos of the city. Eating good, nutritious foods can help you feel energized and ready to take on the day whether you are traveling or staying in your host city. The best cure to the chaos that I have found to be the most helpful is getting away from the city and finding quieter green spaces! The hustle and bustle can be quite hectic at times with tourists and locals. It can be nice to escape the busy and go for a hike or explore the beautiful countryside.

Thanks, Gianna!