Study abroad
 

In a few days I leave for the upcoming semester in florence (a little less than 4 months). Is there any advice that anybody can offer me for about being abroad for so long, or about florence in general?

Have a wonderful time! :)

I spent 3 weeks in Europe two summers ago, not really a long time at all, but I spent a day or two in Florence, and it was nice.

Keep a travel journal -- either handwritten or electronically, there's so much you will be experiencing, that you are bound to forget a lot...

experience everything you can... try new foods, explore the city and it's surroundings, and not just what the guidebooks say.

talk to the locals, and do your best with the language.

send lots of postcards, including to yourself for when you get home -- it's a cool reminder of the trip and helps to relive some fun memories.

This experience is what you make of it... If you have a roommate that is awful... or a class that is not what you thought it would be - don't let it spoil the adventure for you. Just roll with the punches and have a blast...

I wholly agree with Maleficent's advice. I occasionally read my journal that I kept during my trip to europe [over the summer, 3 weeks]. It reminds me a lot of what I forget, and reminded me of all the good times I had - it's a great pick-me-up :)
Don't be afraid to take a lot of pictures too, if you want to. Also, I'd recommend not to cave into American culture there. For example, some of my fellow travelers went to Mcdonald's in France for a snack, though they had a few other choices to eat from.
Be Open and don't be afraid to ask questions !

get the eurorail pass and burn it up... spend your nights sleeping on the train and your days exploring the next city you come to. have a great time...

Well, 4 months isn't long enough. Make the most of it. Travel around Italy, but get to know Florence. Kind of spartan advice, but you really have to shape your time abroad for yourself.