Sam Montero's Global Exchanges Journey in Italy
Sam Montero's Global Exchanges Journey in Italy
For many students, the allure of studying internationally is driven by a desire for adventure, new experiences and personal growth. For Sam Montero, a junior majoring in Finance and Marketing at Florida State University, the dream was even more specific: to move to Italy. This summer, her aspirations became a reality through FSU's Global Exchanges program, taking her to the charming city of Perugia and the prestigious Università per Stranieri di Perugia.
"My dream has always been to move to Italy," Sam shares, her enthusiasm evident. "I started taking Italian language courses during my freshman year, and when I learned about Global Exchanges, I knew I had to take advantage of this amazing opportunity." Her passion for Italy and its culture drove her to seize this chance, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Embarking on a Global Exchange can be daunting, especially without the familiar support of friends and family. Sam faced this challenge head-on. "I was a bit worried about going into this by myself, but I am so glad I did. It forced me to get out of my comfort zone and meet people I probably wouldn’t have spoken to if I had a group of familiar faces around," she reflects.
The experience has been transformative. Sam's circle of friends has expanded globally, including individuals from Algeria, Egypt, Taiwan, Russia, Syria and Sweden. "My world has expanded so much, and I hope to continue making friends from different walks of life and keep learning from them," she says, her excitement about future intercultural connections palpable.
For any FSU students contemplating a similar journey, Sam offers heartfelt advice: "Don’t overthink it, just go for it! It might seem scary not having a group of students to share this experience with, but I think that’s the best part of it. You will learn so much about yourself and about the world." Her encouraging words highlight the profound personal growth and global awareness that come from such experiences.
Sam's time in Italy hasn't been without its hurdles. "I kept getting on the wrong buses, missing my bus, etc," she admits with a laugh. These small setbacks, however, have only added to her adventure, teaching her resilience and adaptability.
Among the many enriching experiences, one stands out for Sam. "The most memorable experience I’ve had so far is when the woman who was running for Mayor hosted a watch party in the city center for the Italy vs Spain soccer match. The center was packed, and everyone was singing and cheering—it was so wholesome. And then during halftime, she started DJing! One of the best things I have ever experienced."
Despite initial concerns about language barriers, Sam found the locals in Perugia to be incredibly supportive. "Italians are very kind! They were very supportive when I tried speaking to them in Italian, and they didn’t have a hard time understanding. Worst case, they always understood me when I gave up and spoke in English."
Academically, the experience in Perugia has been a refreshing change for Sam. "It is much more laid back here in Perugia. Every hour, we have a break where we get coffee from a vending machine (the coolest thing ever!) and get to hang out on the balcony for 10 minutes. The US should really incorporate these hourly breaks!" This relaxed atmosphere has not only been enjoyable but has also provided a new perspective on balancing work and leisure.
Sam Montero's journey in Italy through FSU's Global Exchanges program is a testament to the transformative power of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing new cultures. Her story serves as an inspiration for other students to take bold steps toward their dreams, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and their place within it.
