Before studying abroad, I had yet to gain experience in seeing the world. Although America and even Tennessee are large, being here somewhat puts us in a bubble in ways we don’t even realize. Studying abroad taught me so much about culture, experiences, and honestly just personal growth. I would vouch to say that I have completely changed as a person since studying abroad, and I would recommend the experience and process to anyone who may be considering it.
I am from an extremely small town of less than 1,000 people, and in this town, regardless of whether they want it or not, most people are born there and stay there. My goal from a young age was to move away and have experiences in my life that most people from my town could never even dream of. With the help of my study abroad scholarship, I was able to accomplish that dream and so much more. I decided to study abroad in the heart of Tuscany, Florence, Italy. Florence is the most beautiful city in the world with amazing citizens, beautiful landmarks, historical sites, and the most amazing food you could ever dream of. Most of my days in Florence were spent with me trying to live as locally as possible. I was able to spend most of my days there frolicking through the streets and conversing with locals any chance I had. I was even grocery shopping daily, eating dinner around 8:00 PM, and saying “ciao” and “grazie” every single chance I could like the wannabe local I was.
Throughout my time in Florence, I was also able to travel to so many cities and countries. I think that my favorite city besides Florence would have to be Paris. In all honesty, I assumed that Paris would be much too touristy and posh for my liking, but I ended up seeing the most amazing things while simultaneously meeting the most beautiful people. All of the touristy sites were popular for a reason, and I fell in love with the entire city. If I were able to study abroad for a second time, I’d choose Paris. Throughout my time abroad, I visited around 15 Italian villages and cities and went to France twice. I have so many more visits to Europe planned in the next upcoming years. I fell in love not just with the two countries I was able to explore but also fell in love with the entire continent. I strive to be able to go back to Europe to explore every little corner I can during my younger years.
Through studying abroad, I was able to gain a world perspective that my small town in Tennessee never could have brought me. Of course, it was hard to leave behind my family, friends, and all the people I love, but because I took that leap of faith, I became the person I have always wanted to become. Studying abroad was by far the best decision I have ever made, and I am already trying to talk all of my friends into going because I think that it is something everybody should do at least once.
Maddux Golden (BS Marketing) spent the Spring 2024 semester studying abroad in Florence, Italy through CIS Abroad. Maddux had the following to say about studying abroad, “Coming from a small town doesn’t mean that is who you are. Take the chance and see what the world can offer you, and your life will be changed for the better.”
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