I visited the University of Florence today for my Psychology class and had to talk to Italian students about their perspective of Americans in their country. It was probably one of the most overwhelming and exhausting experiences I've had here so far. Before I came out to Italy I assumed that all cultures including the Italians had embraced some form of the American culture in their daily lives. I was so wrong. Trying to communicate with the locals here is probably the most difficult aspect living out in Florence. I thought they would understand what I was saying and I was entirely wrong.
I found myself explaining myself in depth with hand gestures and detailed explanations in hopes of getting the most simple point across. I know the Italian students felt the same, they seemed uncomfortable when they had to speak English to us but they were pretty good and it made me feel a little embarrassed that I was in their country and couldn't speak their language but they could speak mine. After today, I realized that every culture is different in many aspects and I cannot assume they are all the same. It was a great experience but hard to say the least.
I learned a lot from them and I'm sure they learned a lot from all of us. Every day here is another day that I learn something new, not only about myself but about others as well. In all honesty that's one of the best experiences about being out here.
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