When I first arrived in Florence, learning Italian felt closely connected to my lessons at AEF. I was focused on learning new vocabulary, understanding grammar and finding the confidence to speak. Now, after a month and a half here, I’ve realised that Italian has become part of many more moments throughout my day. From exploring Florence’s museums and historic streets to studying in quiet libraries and meeting new people, the city has become a central part of my language journey. Whilst AEF has given me the structure and support to learn, Florence provides countless opportunities to put that knowledge into practice.
The most rewarding moments are often the most unexpected ones. I’ll recognise a phrase that came up in class whilst reading a museum display, overhear an expression I’ve recently learned in conversation class or realise that I understand more of a sign or announcement that I would have just a few weeks ago. Those moments make the language feel much more real. I've also noticed that vocabulary is becoming easier to remember because it's connected to everyday experiences rather than simply a page in a textbook. Instead of memorising words in isolation, I'm seeing them used naturally all around me, which makes learning feel far less abstract.
Studying abroad has also meant creating a routine that works for me. One of my favourite places to study is Biblioteca delle Oblate, where I can work while enjoying an incredible view of the Duomo. It's difficult to complain about revision when your study break includes one of Florence's most iconic landmarks. Having places like this nearby has made studying feel like part of experiencing the city rather than something separated from it. Spending an afternoon there often feels just as much a part of living in Florence as visiting a museum or wandering through its streets.
The more I learn about Florence's history, the more meaningful learning Italian becomes. Visiting museums and historic sites isn't just about seeing famous works of art. It's another opportunity to practise the language and understand the stories behind the places I'm visiting. I've found that words are much easier to remember when they're connected to a place, a story or an experience. Reading museum information in Italian and recognising vocabulary from class helps reinforce what I've learned while also giving me a deeper appreciation of Florence itself.
Some of my favourite moments have come from discovering the small details that make Florence unique. Before arriving here, I had never heard of Florence's famous wine windows. Now, every time I come across one, I'm reminded of how much history can be hidden in the smallest corners of the city. Learning about traditions like these has made me more curious and encouraged me to keep asking questions, both in English and, where I can, in Italian. It's these little discoveries that make Florence feel less like somewhere I'm visiting and more like somewhere I'm gradually getting to know.
One of the best ways I've found to practise Italian outside AEF has been joining a local taekwondo club. As someone who also trains at my home university, it's been particularly interesting to experience how the sport is taught in a different country. While the techniques are familiar, the coaching style, class structure and even the terminology used have all given me a new perspective. It's been a completely different kind of language experience because no one is there to teach Italian, the focus is simply on training together. That means conversations happen naturally, whether it's following instructions, chatting before class or learning sport-specific vocabulary. I've realised that some of the most valuable language practice happens when you're not actively thinking about learning the language. Instead, you're simply communicating, participating and becoming part of a community. Often language learning is about sharing an activity you enjoy, adapting to a different environment and building connections through a shared interest.
Additionally, listening is one of the most valuable forms of practice. Even when I don't understand every word, I'm becoming more familiar with the rhythm, sounds and natural flow of Italian. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that it's okay not to understand everything. A few weeks ago I would have found that frustrating, but now I see it as just part of the process. Every conversation I overhear, every interaction I have and every day spent surrounded by the language helps build my confidence little by little.
When I first arrived in Florence, I thought of Italian as something I would study during my time here. Now, it feels much more connected to everyday life. The lessons at AEF have given me strong foundations, but Florence has given those lessons meaning. Whether I'm exploring a museum, studying in a library, training at taekwondo or simply walking through the city, each experience teaches me something new.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
Favourite meal: Homemade tomato pasta dish made with my flatmate!
Favourite place: Convento di San Francesco, Fiesole
New phrase learned: ‘Stare con le mani in mano’ (‘To twiddle your thumbs’/ to do nothing)
What I am looking forward to: A weekend trip to Genoa!
Until next time,
Baci e abbracci!
Charlotte
Charlotte Young
