In part one of this two-part podcast, I sit down with Ava Gustafson before she begins her study abroad experience in Florence, Italy. Ava talks about why she chose Florence, what she hopes to gain from living and studying overseas, and the mix of excitement and nerves she feels ahead of the trip. This episode captures her mindset before the journey begins, offering an honest look at her expectations, goals, and thoughts on how the experience might change her. Be sure to come back for part two, where Ava returns after studying abroad to reflect on how the experience actually shaped her and what she learned along the way.