Spending a summer studying abroad in Florence, Italy was an unforgettable experience that broadened my perspective both academically and personally. The course I took, Applied Human Factors and Art in Italy, was a creative blend of science and art. We explored the evolution of the human form through historical art representation. This allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of how human-centered design has evolved over time, while also sharpening my ability to apply this knowledge in modern engineering contexts. While on my trip, studying art often led me to reflect on how it shaped human civilization, influencing essential human factors such as the development of reading and writing. Below is an example of one of the many amazing pieces of art we got to see, The David.
Outside of class, Florence itself became my extended classroom. Walking through places like the Uffizi Gallery, Galileo Museum, and the historic Ponte Vecchio all added layers of meaning to what I was learning. Below is a picture of the amazing city of Florence from the Duomo! In addition to art gallery visits, I also got to take part in academic excursions. One of the most memorable excursions to me that we did as part of our classroom time was the visit to Scandicci, where we toured a high-end handbag design facility. Seeing how Italian design harmonizes aesthetics and functionality offered an inspiring glimpse into real-world applications of human factors and design thinking.
The weekends were filled with adventures that deepened my appreciation for Italian culture. A highlight was our trip to Rome, where I was stunned by the ancient sites like the Colosseum and the Pantheon. Another favorite was our weekend in Cinque Terre. Hiking between the cliffside villages and taking in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean was like stepping into a postcard. These excursions not only gave us a break from coursework but also enriched our overall experience and connection to the country. Below are pictures of the Colosseum in Rome and the city of Riomaggiore (my favorite!) in Cinque Terre.
Looking back, I’ve gained far more than course credits. I now have a stronger foundation in human-centered design, a deeper appreciation for the role of art in science, and a new sense of independence and adaptability. Being immersed in Italian culture challenged me to see the world, and my future work as an engineer, with fresh eyes. I’m grateful for the memories, the lessons, and the people I met along the way.
