Falcons Abroad is a series of Bentley student-athletes sharing their first-hand experiences of studying abroad. Grace Motisi '26 of the women's swimming & diving team spent a semester in Italy.
I had dreamed of studying abroad in Italy since middle school, especially because my dad's family is from Sicily. I wanted to connect with my culture in a meaningful way, and what better way to do that than by spending four months there? Everyone I spoke to who had studied abroad—or wished they had—had nothing but great things to say, encouraging me to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Italy was an easy choice, not only for its cultural significance to me but also for its proximity to other places I wanted to explore, like London, France, and Spain. I spent almost every weekend traveling, whether within Italy or around Europe. But beyond that, I loved immersing myself in everyday life in Florence—wandering through charming streets, browsing local boutiques, sipping Aperol spritz by the Ponte Vecchio, and hiking up to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views.
One cultural difference that stood out was the tipping culture. In Italy, tipping isn't expected and can even be seen as unnecessary or disrespectful. Instead, restaurants often include a "coperto," which is essentially a service charge. Small details like this made me more aware of the nuances of different cultures.
This experience gave me a newfound sense of independence as I navigated real-world challenges on my own. Whether dealing with last-minute flight or train cancellations, figuring out transportation from the airport to my Airbnb, or handling everyday logistics, I had to problem-solve in ways I never had before. But more than just practical skills, I learned a lot about myself—what I truly value, what I want to accomplish in life, and how important it is to give attention to different aspects of my well-being. I also realized that life is so much bigger than my sport or the things that cause me anxiety.
Studying abroad is an eye-opening experience that allows you to discover more about yourself, form new connections, and immerse yourself in cultures beyond your own. It might feel daunting at times, which is completely normal, but don't let that stop you from experiencing what could be some of the best months of your life.
