Written by Carson Fruman, University of Maryland | ISI Florence Spring 2025
My name is Carson Fruman, and I’m majoring in Cinema with a minor in Pre-Law. I chose to study abroad for my personal and academic growth while having the opportunity to explore new cultures and travel.
I chose Florence because it is where my parents got married, and it has a special place for my family, so I wanted to keep the tradition going. I was unsure between Barcelona and Florence at first, but I am so glad about my choice now! Living in Florence has given me the chance to discover a different culture, meet new people, and see the world from a new perspective. Traveling around Europe is incredible—not just for the places I’ve seen, but for how much it makes you grow and learn in ways you wouldn’t expect.
Creating Life-Long Memories
One of my favorite activities is my Italian 101 Florence Experience class. I love learning Italian and being able to use it every day, whether it’s ordering at a café, chatting with locals, or navigating the city. It helps me feel this city as a home. The class also provides information about the city’s history and culture: walking around and learning about the stories behind the streets, buildings, and art is incredible. One thing is just admiring the beauty of Florence, but understanding its history makes it even more special.
Volunteering Abroad
In addition to my classes, I’m also volunteering at Badia Fiorentina, a historic church in the center of Florence. Here, I give tours to English-speaking tourists, explaining the history, architecture, and works of art of the church.
This opportunity allows me to connect with the local culture and people from around the world. It makes me feel even more at home and allows me to better appreciate the city. It’s also helping me feel more confident in speaking to groups.
Volunteering in this museum aligns with my personal and professional goals in ways I wasn’t expecting. I dream of becoming an entertainment lawyer, which combines my passion for film and law. Studying cinema gives me a foundation in different fields such as telling stories, knowledge of history, and cultural preservation. I use these skills during my guided tours at the museum, trying to engage visitors with interesting facts and stories about the church. At the same time, being able to speak in public fosters my skills in the law field.
Advice to Future Students
For future students who are considering studying abroad, my advice is to jump into it! Before coming, I feared the language barrier. At the start of my experience here, I felt intimidated— I was afraid of making mistakes and not being understood. I quickly realized that if I made a small effort, I could go a long way. I learned the basic phrases that got me through and made me confident enough to have small conversations with locals. I enjoy studying Italian, and I have so much fun using it in everyday situations. I also recommend finding a routine that makes you feel at home—find your favorite café, take a daily walk through your favorite streets, or volunteer like I’m doing at Badia Fiorentina!
Most importantly, remember that you’re not alone: you will always have the support of your roommates, your teachers, and the ISI Florence staff!