Study Abroad in 2023 in Italy - Cameron Smith

Cameron Smith is a supply chain management major and is from Greenville, North Carolina

During my study abroad trip to Italy, I spent my free day traveling to Florence to sightsee and try some amazing food. I researched the food in Italy before coming so some of us went to Ristorante Boccadama and tried the lasagna and tiramisu, which were delicious. We also went to see the Piazzale Michelangelo. At the center is a memorial to Michelangelo and it’s full of replicas of Michelangelo’s statues, including a second copy of the David.  We had to climb up a steep hill to get there but the views were absolutely worth it. At the top of the hill, we were able to see a 360 view of Florence and the surrounding areas. We spent the rest of the day eating gelato, shopping, and taking in the view from Ponte Vecchio at sunset, which is the oldest bridge in Florence.  

The free day in Italy was an amazing experience to navigate our way through the metro and the high-speed train systems. This was my first time traveling outside of the country, so it gave me a real sense of independence and self-assurance. It was life-changing to be able to see all of the beautiful sights that have such a rich history and to learn so much about Italian culture.