When Gianna Fazzalari arrived in Florence for a six-week photography program through Arcadia Abroad - ISI Florence, she expected to deepen her creative perspective. Instead, the city challenged the way she saw the world—and herself. The senior strategic communication major spent the summer of 2025 using Florence as her studio, classroom and source of inspiration.
“My time in Florence was unforgettable because of the people and the perspective it gave me,” she said. “I met friends who became family, explored the city through the lens of my photography professor who taught me design, history and how to see the world differently, and immersed myself in a culture that felt both new and deeply familiar.”
The slower pace and intentionality of Italian life offered a contrast to her routines back home.
“Going abroad felt like a necessary break from who I thought I was supposed to be,” she said. “I wanted to step out of my comfort zone, experience a slower, more intentional lifestyle and learn from a place that values beauty, culture and connection.”
The experience expanded her creative approach.
“I knew exploring the world would expand the way I think, create and communicate—which it did,” she said.
Florence also helped her discover new facets of herself.
“I learned that I’m adaptable, open-hearted and capable of building a life anywhere,” she explained, “I thrive in environments that encourage creativity and independence.” She found she is at her best “when I let myself explore, connect and fully embrace new experiences rather than staying on autopilot.”
Being abroad alone came with challenges, but they became transformative.
“I overcame the challenge of being alone in a foreign country and turning that uncertainty into confidence,” she said.
Navigating a new language and unfamiliar routines required her to rely on herself in ways she never had before.
“It forced me to communicate better and trust my intuition,” she said. “I also learned how to balance independence with building relationships and community.”
The impact of the program extends directly into her academic and professional goals.
“Studying abroad sharpened my global perspective and directly influenced how I approach communication, branding, and storytelling,” Fazzalari said.
The experience strengthened her passion for design, culture and human connection—elements she now sees as central to her career.
“I see myself working in roles that blend creativity with global awareness,” she said, “and I feel more confident pursuing opportunities that push me beyond traditional paths.”
