Program: Maryland-in-Florence
Term: Spring 2025
Major: Neuroscience
True transformation happens outside your comfort zone. Study abroad offers a rare freedom to explore classes beyond your major and gain a deeper understanding of your studies through a new perspective. Take Anna Stamatos, a neuroscience major who chose to spend her semester abroad not in research labs, but immersed in Roman history among actual ruins, studying the brain with a social science lens through psychology and nurturing her passion for the arts. Her unconventional path didn't derail her scientific training—it enriched it.
Anna found that her skills grew in unexpected places. “In a way, [my Garment Construction] class felt like one of my chemistry labs back home,” said Anna. “We were given a task for the class, like making a collared shirt, and must follow instructions while being precise and careful with our measurements and drawings, all while finishing before the 3-hour class is over. At UMD, it’s the same thing, but with a different final product. We have a goal (i.e., to perform a synthesis of a compound) and have to follow the instructions very carefully or we will not obtain the desired results at the end of the 3-hour lab. This class helped me build skills that I can apply back to labs at home. Both require following a structured process and executing precise measurements in a limited timeframe. These skills will also be valuable outside of my classroom setting.”
In pursuing medicine, Anna finds it important to have a well-rounded education and be knowledgeable about different cultures and the world around her. “Being abroad opened my eyes to the extent of the world and the different global health perspectives and diverse healthcare needs,” she said. Anna is also interested in how diet and lifestyle connect with healthcare, so being immersed in Mediterranean culture allowed her to see firsthand how nutrition and lifestyle choices influence overall health.
Anna's experience as a study abroad student helped her become more independent and organized. She joined a local gym and a running club, befriended a vintage store owner, and spoke regularly with the boutique and deli owners in her neighborhood. “Going out of my comfort zone in these situations made me more adaptive, curious, and open-minded. When I return to UMD, I will be more comfortable trying new experiences. I will also bring a global perspective to my future studies and career.”
One of her most memorable academic experiences was during her Italian class when students from Florence University were invited to have conversations with Maryland-in-Florence students. Anna found it intimidating at first but ended up enjoying the experience. Using their basic Italian, students were able to talk about favorite foods, sports, colors, and share the differences in the schooling systems while sharing cultural insights.
Anna found her perfect fit in Florence—a city that felt manageable yet full of discoveries. "After just two months, I could navigate the city center without maps," she says. "I had my favorite local shops, markets, running routes, and more.” But her biggest piece of advice isn't about choosing any specific destination. It's about planning ahead. For other neuroscience students, she would recommend speaking with an academic advisor and building a four-year plan that includes a semester abroad. Understand how your courses abroad will transfer back to UMD and give yourself permission to explore passions beyond your major!
Read more from Anna on the ISI Blog:
Culture in a Cart: Navigating Italian Grocery Stores
Finding Beauty in Local Experiences
Learn more and apply to Maryland-in-Florence.
About ISI Abroad - ISI Florence
ISI Florence is an American study abroad program located in the central Italian city of Florence. Florence is an ideal setting to study abroad in Italy, with a vast variety of fine arts, architecture, communication, liberal arts, and even STEM courses. The Institute offers a variety of community engagement opportunities [integrated into classwork but also in the form of volunteering] and co-curricular activities that help students explore the city and beyond. ISI Abroad manages the admissions and pre-departure (visa) support for all ISI Florence students, ensuring a smooth start to their time in Italy. For more information about ISI Florence or ISI abroad programs, see the website above.