10 Things I learned About Myself While Studying Abroad In Perugia
Opinion piece by Meredith Stemm, Umbra Reps Fall ’25
Before studying abroad, I thought I had a pretty good sense of who I was. But living in Perugia–navigating steep streets, slow mornings, spontaneous train rides, and classes I genuinely love–revealed unexpected parts of myself. This semester became less about simply living in Italy and more about understanding the kind of person I’m becoming. Here are the ten lessons that have shaped me the most.
1. I’m More Patient Than I Thought
Italy runs on a rhythm that’s quieter, slower, and more intentional than what I was used to. Buses don’t always come on time, coffee is meant to be savored, and nothing feels rushed. After initially resisting the pace, I found myself growing into it. I’ve learned to pause, breathe, and let things unfold without panic.
2. Solo Travel Doesn’t Scare Me Anymore
The first time I booked a solo trip from Perugia, I felt equal parts of excitement and fear. But stepping into a new county alone, taught me that independence can be empowering, not intimidating. I learned to read train boards, navigate new cities, and trust my instincts. That bravery–once hidden–became one of my favorite parts of myself.
3. I Actually Love What I’m Studying
Studying Environmental Studies with a focus on Sustainable Food Systems in a region known for local agriculture and deep food traditions felt like everything clicked into place. Visiting restaurants, talking with local producers, and learning about Italy’s relationship with slow sustainable food made my coursework feel alive. I realized I’m on the right path–and that I genuinely enjoy the field I chose.
4. Don’t Need Every Moment to Be Perfect
Living abroad is beautiful, but it isn’t flawless. I used to take small inconveniences way too seriously–missed buses, an argument with a roommate, wrong turns. In Perugia, I learned that imperfection makes the experience real. Some of my favorite memories came from unplanned detours or moments that didn’t go “right”.
5. I’m Capable of Adapting Faster Than I Expected
New language, new foods, new routines, new people—everything changed at once. And yet, I adjusted. I learned essential Italian phrases, figured out grocery shopping, made friends, and built routines that now feel natural. Adaptability didn’t come from confidence—it came from trying.
6. I Value Slow Moments More Than I Realized
Perugia has a way of making you slow down—sunsets at Porta Sole, long walks along quiet streets, afternoons with nothing planned. I used to fill every hour with tasks. Now, I’ve learned the beauty of unscheduled time and how restorative it can be.
7. I’m More Social (and More Independent) Than I Thought
Studying abroad brought out two sides of me at once: the part that loves connecting with people from all over the world, and the part that enjoys time alone exploring. I didn’t know both could coexist so naturally. I can spend a day with friends and feel energized—and also travel solo and feel grounded.
8. I Can Find “Home” in Unexpected Places
Home became the corner café where the barista remembers my order. The overlook where I watch the sky turn pink. The familiar sound of the Minimetrò. These small consistencies made a foreign city feel warm and familiar. I learned that “home” isn’t a permanent location—it’s a feeling you carry with you.
9. I’m Stronger Than The Scary Moments
There were difficult days—navigating bureaucracy, missing people back home, feeling overwhelmed. But every time something felt too big, I figured it out. I learned that strength doesn’t always look powerful; sometimes it looks like just trying again the next day.
10. I Don’t Need to Take Life So Seriously
This might be the lesson that surprised me the most. In Perugia, I learned that it’s okay to laugh at myself, to make mistakes, to let things be imperfect. Life feels lighter when I loosen my grip. I’ve learned to enjoy small joys: a warm cornetto, a missed bus that turns into a spontaneous walk, a plan that changes for the better.
Studying abroad didn’t just change where I lived—it changed how I see myself. Perugia became a mirror, reflecting back the patience, bravery, curiosity, and joy I didn’t realize were already inside me. These lessons are the souvenirs I’ll carry long after I leave Italy, and the reminders of how much I’ve grown along the way.