When I first stepped into the Accademia Europea di Firenze (AEF), I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I knew I would be studying in a new city, meeting new people, and navigating unfamiliar routines, but I had no idea how much this experience would shape the way I see myself and the world around me. Looking back now, my time at AEF was far more than an academic programme; it was a period of personal expansion, self-reflection, and genuine growth.
Before arriving in Florence, I often second-guessed myself. I wasn’t always confident speaking up, sharing my thoughts, or putting myself forward in group settings. AEF changed that. The environment was open, encouraging, and collaborative, which made it easier for me to slowly test my own boundaries. Each class discussion and every moment where I contributed an idea built my confidence in small but meaningful ways. By the end of the programme, I felt more secure in my perspective and more willing to express it.
This newfound confidence extended beyond academics. Socially and personally, I became more comfortable being myself, trusting that my presence and my ideas had value. AEF gave me the space to grow into a more self-assured version of who I am.
Living in Florence taught me how to handle independence with maturity and resilience. Navigating the city, finding my way through winding streets, managing daily tasks, and adapting to a different pace of life, helped me build a sense of self-reliance I didn’t fully have before. Even small moments, like figuring out public transport or discovering a quiet café to work in, made me feel more capable and grounded.
Of course, there were challenges. I got lost on more than one occasion, misunderstood directions, and found myself learning through trial and error. But it was within those moments of uncertainty that I grew the most. Florence became the backdrop for lessons I couldn’t have learned anywhere else.
One of the most memorable aspects of AEF was the people I met. Being surrounded by students from different countries and backgrounds offered a constant exchange of ideas and experiences. Conversations were thoughtful, friendships formed quickly, and there was a shared sense of curiosity that made every interaction meaningful. These connections helped Florence feel less like a temporary place of study and more like a community.
I realised how important it is to meet people who challenge and inspire you. The relationships I built at AEF reminded me of the value of surrounding myself with individuals who bring out my best qualities.
AEF encouraged me to approach learning with more creativity, reflection, and openness. Whether through coursework or the everyday experience of living in a city rich with history and art, I found myself thinking more deeply about who I am and who I want to become. The programme helped me clarify my interests and values, showing me what motivates me and how I respond to challenges.
Leaving AEF felt less like closing a chapter and more like stepping into a new one with greater clarity and confidence. I gained independence, self-awareness, new friendships, and a renewed sense of direction. Most importantly, I learned that growth often happens when you are willing to step into the unfamiliar. AEF taught me to trust myself, to stay open to change, and to embrace the opportunities that come with new experiences.
