I have to admit, the first month I was terrified. I was living in an apartment by myself in a foreign country, and I didn't speak a word of Italian. The staff really inspired me to stay. From that point on, I began to realize how fascinating the course was.

Every day that I was in the classroom, it felt right. I knew that this was what I was meant to do. My passion and determination did not go unnoticed. My hard work in my courses and my impatience to finally use these skills was considered admirable. I may not have been a straight A student, but my passion and fire for this industry overshadowed that.

Florence has so much charm, the beautiful architecture, the rich history, and its endearing citizens. Living in Florence was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. I learned so much, not only about gemology, but about myself. The Italians taught me to embrace my passion and to disregard what others thought.

I would not be the person I am today if I had settled to study in the States. I really had a huge step ahead of the game not only for having a GIA degree, but for obtaining it in Florence, Italy. Companies found me to be so unique. It didn't matter if I didn't have any experience. I was perceived as determined and that I could handle any situation.

My persistent, impatient nature got me my dream job. I now work for Cartier in New York City. A job that others with tons of experience were fighting for and I got it through my GIA Certifications and my undying passion.

I hope my experience has helped those of you reading this as a decision factor to attend GIA in Florence. My advice for those of you is not to let fear get in the way of your dreams. Do not ever settle for less. Instead, live by these words as I did in Florence and still do to this day: "Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judge that something else is more important than fear. The brave may not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all. From now on, you will be traveling the road between who you think you are and who you can be. The key is to allow yourself to make the journey."

I would like to thank everyone at the Florence campus of GIA. Thank you for your inspiration and believing in me. I am eternally grateful. May you continue to inspire others such as myself.