Student spotlight: Stephanie in Milan

A few months ago, we had a chat with Stephanie, one of our students from San Antonio, Texas, who decided to make Milan her home for a while.

As a musician and performer, Stephanie has spent her career singing, playing the violin, and entertaining audiences. But after retiring, she felt it was time for a different kind of stage. Instead of settling into a quiet routine, she packed her bags (and her courage) and flew to Italy for a full gap year experience.

Her story is a refreshing reminder that adventure doesn’t have an age limit. While many people think gap years are just for students, Stephanie proves that curiosity, learning, and self-discovery are lifelong pursuits. From language mishaps to glider flights over the Alps, she’s embracing every moment, and inspiring others to do the same!

Hi Stephanie, can you share what made you decide to take a gap year abroad?

I’m in my late 60s and I was re-evaluating what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. I’m fortunate enough to have choices and I love to travel. I’ve always wanted to travel to Italy, so I decided to simply do so. When I came across the Italianforawhile program, I thought, “Why not go for it?” Plus, I have the means and the time: this was my moment to do it!

And tell us, how did people react when you told them you were leaving for a year?

At first, there was stunned silence! In my case, it was even more extreme because I decided to sell everything, even my new car. My friends were shocked. It’s the same when I meet new people and tell them: they’re surprised at first but then they say, “Wow, you’re free!” And I am. I can do whatever I want. If I don’t do it now, I don’t know what next year will bring. I only have one now, so I’m doing it now.

You told us before that you walk a lot here in Italy. How’s that been for you? Is it senior-friendly?

You really have to pay attention when you walk. There are lots of stairs, and the streets are uneven. I’ve been north, south, east, and west (from Switzerland to Calabria) so I’ve seen it all. My biggest advice is: don’t rush, watch where you step, and embrace it. It’s part of the experience.

How’s it different from life back home?

At first, it was hard because I liked being able to just get in my car and go. But here, parking is a challenge. It’s actually quicker to walk or take the metro or bus. And I’ve grown to love that. My next adventure too will be in a place where I can walk everywhere. It’s better for your health, and you see way more things. If you drive, you miss beautiful courtyards, gardens, and statues after all!

And how has your age or experience affected how you learn the language?

Languages are kind of my thing. And I speak Spanish, so learning Italian was easier. The school, too, made it fun and practical. We practiced real conversation, not just grammar or vocabulary. That’s what helps most: actually speaking.

Outside of school, did you stick to English speakers or push yourself to speak Italian?

Actually, I found an Italian boyfriend who only speaks Italian! So I had no choice but to practice. Some people don’t speak English at all, and this helps. At first, it was scary, but you just have to try.

What’s the most embarrassing language mistake you’ve made here?

I can’t say the exact word, but I once meant to say one thing and ended up saying something that was completely inappropriate. Fortunately, the people I was talking to were very kind and corrected me gently. Now I’ll never forget it!

What’s your best memory here so far? And maybe your worst?

I have many good memories. One of the best was early on when a friend invited me to go gliding. We flew all over northern Italy and Switzerland with no motor, just gliding for hours. It was incredible. Another was spending a week in Calabria, visiting beaches and small towns. Everything was first class.

The only bad thing? I’ve fallen a couple of times because of uneven steps or holes in the road. I didn’t break anything, just bruises. Now I walk more cautiously.

You also joined our Florence meetup. How was it to interact with people of different ages?

Oh, I loved it! Mentally I’m 25, so it was just fine. I enjoyed talking with everyone. Honestly, I don’t hang out with “old” people much anyway. The group was lively and engaging. It was a great time!

Now, before our last question, let’s play a little game: If you had to describe your experience in Italy through…

• Three foods: Gelato, because it’s authentic Italy and you can’t get it like this anywhere else in the world. Then, Milanese risotto and spaghetti carbonara.
• Three cities: Milan for its cosmopolitan vibe, Rome for its history, and Reggio Calabria for its seaside, relaxed vibe.

Before we close, do you have one piece of advice for future gappers who might be uncertain about taking the leap?

Come with an open mind and the heart of an adventurer. If you’re open, you’ll find adventure. Don’t stay closed off or hide in your apartment. Live it fully: eat the gelato, enjoy everything Italy has to offer. You’ll only experience it if you go out and live it!