YOFO (You Only Florence Once)

View of Florence. (Photo: Riley Patnode)

Four weeks in a foreign country studying a language you have no clue how to speak. Several words come to mind when I think of this experience I have shared with six people who were complete strangers four weeks ago: frightening, confusing, and completely exhilarating.

The last month has been filled with classes, museum visits, and plenty of free time to explore the city; the owners of our favorite little pizzeria and breakfast bar recognize us as we go almost daily and always smile at us and get our usual orders ready. Plenty of times, there has been a language barrier between us and the locals, but after a few Italian classes, it became easier and easier to speak with the people around us.

(From left) Riley Patnode from Chicago and Catherine Gassiot. (Photo: Eve Favia)

The locals weren't the only people we bonded with, we made friends with the international college students that we're backpacking through Europe and passed through our youth hostel over World Cup games, even getting a few Facebook friends out of it. Two of the most valuable assets I think not only I, but also the other students on this trip, have gained after our time abroad is independence and fearlessness.

Our repeated motto being: "YOFO", or you only Florence once because who knows when we'll get to come back here and spend this much time just living in a foreign city. I know that this summer I've made memories and friendships that always stay with me as I know this summer has been unforgettable and possibly the best one yet.