Dani Gonzalez-Gaubeka
Dani Gonzalez-Gaubeka (she/her) - Stanford in Florence
Major: International Relations
Minor: European Studies
College year while abroad: Fall 2024
About the photo: Piazzale Michelangelo offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. Right before sunset, the deep orange and golden hues of the city’s buildings seemed to glow from within.
Contact
Email: danigg@stanford.edu or click here to schedule an appointment.
Q&As
Why did you choose to study in Florence?
Florence is steeped in a rich political and cultural history as the epicenter of the Renaissance: I was excited to further my studies of foreign affairs and European politics by studying Florence’s past and how it plays a part in the city’s present. I also had a personal interest in forging a deeper connection with my Italian heritage by engaging with the Italian language and the locals in Florence.
How did studying away support your academic growth?
While studying abroad was a key component of my international relations major and European studies minor, the subject matter of the courses I took in Florence was very different from any courses I had previously taken at Stanford. Studying art history, Florentine literature, and the history of Italy and the Islamic Mediterranean was an enriching departure from my normal schedule of political science courses. Further, continuing my Italian language studies abroad helped me improve my skills significantly. I greatly enjoyed getting to practice outside of the classroom when interacting with locals and navigating the city.
What did you learn about yourself during your study away experience, especially through any challenges or major cultural adjustments?
My upbringing in a Spanish-Italian household taught me to embrace a dual cultural identity as I grew up in the United States. During my quarter abroad, I realized that I had a false sense of security in just how much I understood European culture. Living in Florence revealed fundamental cultural differences between European and American daily life and taught me to approach each day with humility and curiosity. While I certainly felt some cultural familiarity, I enjoyed the challenge of navigating culture shock and deepening my understanding of my place in the world as a global citizen.
Briefly describe a typical day and your favorite part of daily life in your program location.
My favorite part of life in Florence was its slower, albeit spontaneous, pace: we began each day with a thirty-minute walk to the Stanford center, our route taking us past the majestic Duomo and across the Ponte Vecchio. Soon after arriving at Palazzo Capponi, we’d be whisked away on a class field trip or a lunchtime outing in the city. Afternoons faded into the early evening as we enjoyed study sessions overlooking the Arno river, or went out to enjoy a gelato or stroll in the Boboli Gardens after class.
If applicable, how did participating in an internship, volunteership or experiential-based project help you grow professionally? What specific skills did you gain?
N/A - I was not involved in an internship, volunteership or experiential-based project while abroad.
What was the most essential item you took with you on the program?
A comfortable pair of boots. The autumn weather in Florence is quite variable, and I felt very grateful to have a sturdy pair of boots to take me across miles of cobblestone roads, especially when it rained. Florence is best explored by foot, so comfortable walking shoes are a must!
What advice would you give students who are considering studying away?
Even if your BOSP program of choice doesn’t have a language requirement, strongly consider taking at least one quarter of language instruction before you go. It makes a huge difference to be able to speak even just a few words of the local language as soon as you land. You will also improve very quickly if you have a linguistic foundation to build upon.