20 Things I Learned Studying Abroad That I Never Learned in School

Most study abroad students decide to leave home in the hopes of learning something new, making incredible memories, and having a life changing experience. However, upon returning home, it can seem impossible to articulate just how your experiences abroad impacted you. After lots of reflection, here are my top 20 things I learned during my…

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Oktoberfest: The Complete Guide

I spent the past weekend in Munich for Oktoberfest and had one of the best days of my life. You can read all about it here! If you are even considering going, you absolutely must, and I would even go so far as to say that Oktoberfest should be on everyone’s bucket list. It was that…

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49 Thoughts You Had During Oktoberfest

WE MADE IT. That bus ride was rough. Must take obligatory picture near Oktoberfest entrance. Its 9 AM…how is the line for the beer tent this long already? Its actually kind of chilly. I almost regret wearing this dirndl. No I don’t…#doitfortheinsta This beer better be worth it. Why is everyone pushing and shoving? I…

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How I Got Over My Breakup Abroad: And Why You Will Too

After dating a great guy for a year, our seemingly idyllic relationship crumbled under the reality that he would soon be moving away. And so, with the tossing of a grad cap, we were over, and I was catching a flight to Italy to begin studying abroad. The first few weeks were horrible, I won’t…

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A Little Bit of France in Florence

One of my favorite things about Firenze is that there is always something new to see and do, and today was no exception. During my day off spent wandering around the city (shamelessly scouting photo locations), I stumbled upon La Belle Epoque Market in the piazza Santissima Annunziata. The piazza will be filled with a number…

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Forza Viola! Attending a Fiorentina Match

Soccer, known as futbol in Europe, is Italy’s most popular sport. A trip to a futbol match is a must for anyone looking to soak up an energy filled cultural experience unlike any I’ve witnessed in the United States. This past weekend I attended a match between Fiorentina and Milan and had a blast cheering…

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How To: Grocery Shopping in Italy

While a huge part of traveling or studying abroad is soaking up local culture and sampling as many restaurants as possible, one of the best ways to save money while studying abroad is to cook for yourself. Your first trip to an Italian supermarket may seem intimidating, so here are some of my tips to…

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Moving Into Your Italian Apartment

I have now successfully moved into two apartments in Florence. If you are studying abroad or plan on moving to Florence, here are some of my tips, tricks, and observations so you know what to expect when you get your keys. Most Apartments Are Furnished Particularly for study abroad students, much of your furniture will…

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A Day Sailing the Cinque Terre

During the month I studied abroad in Italy, one of my trip highlights was a day trip to Cinque Terre, an experience I consider an absolute must for anyone traveling to Italy. However, if you have a bit more time in town, or are looking to experience Cinque Terre from the sea, then this day…

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