Author: Emma McClure | Major Hospitality Management | Semester: Summer 2025

Exploring one of Florence’s historic wine windows, where centuries of Italian hospitality come to life.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to spend six unforgettable weeks in Florence, Italy through SAI Study Abroad Program. As a Hospitality Management major, I was drawn to this program because of its focus on food, culture, community, and wine; four areas that are deeply intertwined in Italian life and hospitality management. I took two courses during my time abroad: Wine Windows and Business Walks and Cooking, Culture, and Community. Both classes allowed me to explore more of Florence’s traditions and lifestyle while still connecting the hospitality and tourism industries in meaningful, hands-on ways.

I chose to study abroad in Italy because of my interest in the country’s hospitality culture, often regarded as the founders of hospitality. Italy is known for its emphasis on warmth, connection, and genuine service, values that extend far beyond hotels and restaurants into everyday life. I wanted to experience firsthand how these cultural principles shape the way Italian businesses operate and how guests are welcomed and cared for.

Academically, my classes were immersive and experiential, which made learning feel alive. In Wine Windows and Business Walks, we did a walking tour each morning and got to explore more of Florence. Our professor taught us the history of wine windows and how wine businesses have changed over time. In Cooking, Culture, and Community, we learned about the regional and seasonal dishes in Italy. We also did one walking tour a week learning about the history of Trattorias, Osterias, speakeasys and much more around the city. Through these lessons, I saw how Italians truly live a simplistic life day in and day out.

What stood out to me the most, however, was Italy’s approach to work-life balance. Italians take great pride in their work, but they also prioritize living well. Evenings often began with Aperitivo, a social hour spent enjoying a glass of wine with a small snack before dinner. Holidays and time spent away from work are truly respected as time to rest and spend with family and friends. This balance between productivity and pleasure felt refreshing compared to the fast paced, constantly connected lifestyle I was used to back home. It reminded me that success in hospitality, and in life, depends not only on hard work but also on creating moments of peace and connection.

Studying abroad was one of the most transformative experiences of my college career. It challenged me to adapt to a new culture, communicate across language barriers, and embrace a slower, more intentional lifestyle. The lesson that I will carry forward is the importance of balance, taking time to pause, appreciate, and connect, both in my personal life and future career. Italy taught me that hospitality isn’t just about service; it’s about creating experiences that bring true joy to others around us.