First Day

After 3 plane rides, a bus ride, a 5 hour layover in Munich and over 24 hours of travel, I finally arrived in Florence. My first day was full of oriention and other errands. I filled out paper work, went to meetings, got keys/internet access and just got a feel for the campus. The campus is small but gorgeous. It is basically several small buildings surronding a garden. We had lunch in the garden yesterday because it was such a beautiful day. After orientation, we stopped by the Duomo on the way back to the hotel. I can't believe how close the campus actually is to the Duomo. Just walking around helped me to get more acquainted to the city. I am looking forward to living here for a semester. Everything here is just so beautiful.

I also got an Italian phone yesterday so I can keep in contact with other people on the program.

Later today I find out who my roommate and homestay family will be. I am nervous and excited to see who I will be living with for the next semester. I speak very little Italian, which may make communication difficult. However, I am ready to fully experience the Italian Culture and believe staying with a family will help me to better immerse.

Last night, some friends and I bought a bottle of wine at some pizzeria to share. We just went back to the hotel and drank it while getting to know each other. There is nothing like getting to know each other over some vino.

I love Firenze so far. Everything is gorgeous and there is so much to see. I am looking forward to the next semester and am ready for new experiences that I will remember for the rest of my life.

Ciao for now.

Amy Bernstein