For my STEP Signature Project, I traveled to Florence, Italy to take a course in Intensive Fashion Design. For six weeks, I practiced my illustration skills and created a small collection. Besides the coursework, I engaged with the local culture and explored the rich Italian history around me.

Perhaps the most significant impact this program had on me was the solidification of my emerging love for fashion. My journey into design thus far has been brief and riddled with self-doubt. As I approach the end of my time at Ohio State, it’s daunting to switch career paths from my current major in communications to one of fashion. It’s hard to feel secure knowing that I may have to reset my trajectory. This program squashed those previous doubts and concerns for the legitimacy of my passion. While isolated for six weeks with nothing but design work, I realized this is truly what I love and need to pursue.

Besides the coursework, experiencing another culture for such an extended period was amazing. The local scene operated much differently than what I’m accustomed to. Although it was certainly uncomfortable at times, these feelings are necessary. I’ve always tried to hold an open perspective of the world, and Florence introduced me to a focused idea of Italian lifestyle. The city is brimming with history, given its lengthy existence, and there was plenty of beautiful culture to take in.

Prior to my departure, I was worried that this program wouldn’t foster much growth in my design skills. I had occasionally heard that study abroad trips weren’t difficult, so I was at least hoping to better my illustrations. Luckily, despite the expectations, I gained so much knowledge. The collection theory professor taught so much and encouraged creativity like I hadn’t experienced. The greatest takeaway from this course was the ability to research and develop themes and ideas from beginning to end. Watching my ideas grow and lead to an end collection was fantastic.

In addition, it was important to put in a lot of effort. I could’ve taken the course lightly and simply worked to get it done. But I devoted most of my energy towards this collection and it dominated my thoughts. It was stressful and took a lot of work, but I think it was worth it. I learned a lot about myself as a creative and the design process. Without the dedication, I wouldn’t have received much in return.

The longest I’ve been out of the country prior to this program was two weeks as part of a service program. To be essentially independent for six weeks, trying to understand a completely new culture while taking care of myself was difficult. It was often frustrating, and quite honestly there were many times I wanted to come back home. But these kinds of instances are the most important when traveling. Disturbing the typical comfort we feel at home leads us to understand new perspectives.

Besides cultural immersion, Florence is simply a beautiful place- The architecture, landscape, artwork. The expanse of history all around was almost overwhelming and it was hard to choose a focus. The museums were amazing, the streets winded to new hidden gems, and I truly felt like I was somewhere special. I felt an almost spiritual connection to different places, a fine example being the Pitti Palace, where regality becomes a vivid emotion linked to the past.

My experience in Florence greatly exceeded any expectations. It was easily the most valuable experience I’ve had abroad, and I think that is because the stage I’m at in life. The program allowed me to realize the extent of my passion for fashion design. I now know that I need to give this career a chance to blossom. On top of that, inspiration is hugely important as an aspiring creative, and there was an abundance in Florence.

I don’t think I’ve had enough time to truly digest this experience, and I’m sure it will take months, if not years to understand. Discovering new cultures around the world is like adding pieces to the puzzle. Finding new stories, new people, all contribute to a larger understanding of the world. Ultimately, I think that’s all I could’ve asked for in my time abroad, and I’m certainly closer to seeing the whole picture.