End-of-semester Progress Recap with Study Abroad Coordinator, Emily Yanchak (Florence Fashion Study Abroad Program).
By | Emily Yanchak
Before starting my semester abroad, 16 weeks felt like an eternity. I was incredibly nervous about spending so much time far from home. But now, as I approach the 16th and final week of my semester in Italy, I’m realizing how quickly the time has flown by—and how much I’ve learned along the way.
Florence will always hold a special place in my heart, and I know I’ll be sharing stories from my time abroad for the rest of my life. For instance, just last week, I traveled to Lucerne, Switzerland, for Thanksgiving break. On the morning I was set to return to Florence, I got lost on the way to the bus station and missed my ride home. I was alone, and at first, I panicked, unsure of what to do. But within an hour, I found myself on a train to Milan. This experience taught me how to problem-solve and adapt quickly, ensuring I got home safely.
Studying abroad has shown me how capable I am. Being in an unfamiliar country has proven my independence and resilience, demonstrating that I can thrive in a new environment far from comfort and normalcy.
To future students preparing for a semester abroad, my advice is simple: live in the moment and embrace change. While I’ve had some challenging days, I’ve also experienced some of the best days of my life here. Remember, just because you’ve left home doesn’t mean tough days won’t follow you. Feeling uncomfortable, homesick, or less than happy at times is all part of the growth experience. Everything you’ve left behind will be waiting for you when you return, so enjoy every moment while you’re abroad.
Some of my favorite memories from my semester involve the places I visited and the classes I took. My absolute favorite destination was the Cinque Terre, the stunning region that inspired the movie Luca. Comprising five small towns, my favorites were Monterosso and Riomaggiore. If you study abroad in Italy, I highly recommend visiting the Cinque Terre—it’s breathtaking, and I cherish every moment there.
As for classes, I strongly recommend taking Product Development in the Fashion Industry with Fabiana Vannuccini. I learned so much from Faby and her expertise in the industry. Although the class was challenging at times (I often wanted to tear my hair out!), I’m so grateful for the experience and everything I gained from it.
My time in Italy has been transformative, teaching me about the world, its history, and my own potential. I’m beyond grateful for this experience, and I hope everyone who studies abroad feels the same way. If you’re preparing for your own adventure, it’s okay to feel scared—but don’t let fear hold you back. There’s so much waiting for you to discover, and you’ll grow more than you ever imagined if you take this leap!
Comments