One of the hardest transitions students like myself face each year is letting go of those final summer days before the fall semester begins. While the excitement of returning to campus, reuniting with friends, and stepping into a new academic year is real, the looming weight of classes and exams inevitably follows. Looking back on the end of my summer, I can say with complete certainty that my transition into what would become my first semester studying abroad in Florence was nothing short of exhilarating—and, most importantly, remarkably stress-free. That feeling didn’t fade with time; instead, it deepened, enhancing my entire experience of studying in one of the most magical cities in the world during those short but unforgettable fall months.
Fall also offers a unique opportunity to experience Florence as it exhales after the summer rush. The city slows, locals reclaim their routines, and everything feels more “breathable.” This calmness is one of the main reasons I preferred studying abroad in the fall rather than the spring. With fewer tourists, my peers and I were able to immerse ourselves more fully in Florentine culture, gaining greater access to seasonal celebrations and local events. One period I often think back on is the weeks leading up to the winter holidays—from the street-to-street decorations and festive lights, to the unforgettable Christmas tree lighting in Piazza del Duomo, surrounded by hundreds of Florentines. One of my most cherished memories was Milva and Luca’s beautiful dinner party, where we gathered to reflect on our time in Florence together.
Many of the memories I hold closest came from being part of a smaller, close-knit group of students sharing such a unique experience. That sense of kinship extended beyond organized events and into our shared apartments and classrooms. Seeing familiar faces each day was deeply comforting. As someone who thrives in smaller, more intimate learning environments, I found myself participating more and stepping outside of my comfort zone; especially compared to my spring semester, where class sizes were often double or triple. Another advantage of the fall semester is the wider availability of courses, which allows for greater flexibility and the opportunity to build a schedule that truly fits your academic and personal goals.
Before going abroad, I knew I wanted to travel as much as possible while also keeping costs low. Reflecting on my travels during the fall compared to the spring, both within Italy and to nearby countries, I realized that I ultimately spent less overall in the fall. While this isn’t always guaranteed when it comes to accommodations or transportation, the lower volume of tourists later in the season provided more options and alternatives, making travel planning both easier and more affordable.
One aspect of the fall semester that I especially appreciated (whether traveling or staying in Florence) was experiencing the city’s gradual transition from summer to autumn. Even into October, after classes ended for the day, I often found myself hopping on the next train to the nearest beach. Being able to enjoy Italy’s lingering summer warmth while slowly welcoming cooler days made my adjustment to life in Florence even more seamless.
The reasons I remain in awe of my time studying abroad could go on and on. But ultimately, what makes the experience so special is that no two journeys are ever the same. Studying abroad allows each student to create something entirely their own—and for me, Florence in the fall was nothing short of unforgettable.
By Delia Binetti
Student Ambassador
