Falcons Abroad is a series of Bentley student-athletes sharing their first-hand experiences of studying abroad. Caitlin Keenan '26 of the women's lacrosse team spent a semester in Italy. 

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Studying abroad has always been something I dreamed of doing. When I found out I could go abroad and still be a part of a team here at Bentley, I knew I had to take the opportunity. It was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience a new culture, explore different parts of the world, and grow both personally and academically.

Florence, Italy became my home for the semester, and I couldn't have picked a more perfect place. I had heard nothing but amazing things from my teammates who had gone in the past, and I felt an immediate pull toward the city. I had never been before, but I knew its walkability, rich history, proximity to other countries, and vibrant atmosphere would be the perfect fit for me. Looking back, I can confidently say it exceeded all my expectations.

Outside of the classroom, I made the most of every moment. I had the opportunity to visit 13 different countries, experiencing a variety of cultures, cuisines, and ways of life. One of the highlights of my time abroad was running a half marathon in Budapest – something I had always dreamed to do while abroad. I also formed incredible friendships along the way with both Bentley students and students from other schools, expanding my network and making lifelong connections.
 

One of the most surprising aspects of living in Italy was adjusting to the cultural differences. The slower pace of life, the emphasis on enjoying meals rather than rushing through them, and even something as simple as having to grocery shop every day took some getting used to. The difference in customer service was also noticeable – there's no such thing as "tipping culture" in Italy, and things tend to move at a much more relaxed pace compared to the US. At first, it was a bit of an adjustment, but by the end of my time there, I had learned to embrace and appreciate these differences.

This experience helped me grow in so many ways. Personally, I became much more independent and adaptable, navigating new cities and situations on my own. Living in a new country taught me to become comfortable with the unknown and to trust myself even in unfamiliar settings. As an athlete, I learned the importance of balance – staying on top of my workout schedule while traveling and adjusting to a different routine helped me stay disciplined but also flexible.

For anyone thinking about studying abroad, my biggest piece of advice is just do it. It's easy to come up with reasons for why it might not be the right time, but you'll never regret taking the chance to immerse yourself in a new culture. Say yes to new experiences, travel as much as you can, and don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. The memories you make over there will last forever!