Studying abroad offers many opportunities for personal growth, from traveling to meeting locals at language exchanges. A unique opportunity I and some fellow classmates had while studying abroad at CEA in Florence was to write for a local newspaper. Geared towards English-speakers in the Florence area, The Florence Newspaper offers student contributors like myself the chance to write weekly articles about almost anything—personal travel, newly-obtained knowledge, or visits to local places of interest—all to be read by the local English-speaking community.Writing is one of the best ways to enrich a study abroad experience, since it allows you to improve your writing skills and document your experiences while encouraging reflection on how you’ve changed and grown. I would strongly recommend journaling, whether it be personally or professionally, as an ideal activity for your time abroad.
Ricky Widden is a Florence Fall 2010 student from Washington State University.