When Madison Hendrickson and her Air Force spouse received orders to Aviano, Italy in 2022, they knew their lives were about to change. What they didn’t expect was just how much they would embrace their new surroundings. Though Madison has experienced challenges—most notably unemployment—her time in Italy has been marked by personal growth, cultural discovery, and a refreshing shift in perspective.
Living in northern Italy offers a distinct change of pace from the United States, a difference Madison fully appreciates.
“I like the Italian lifestyle,” she says. “It can be tricky for a lot of people because it is slower. There’s no hustle and bustle here compared to the U.S.”
Instead of racing through days, Italians often take time to focus on family, self care, and celebrations. This more relaxed way of life has allowed Madison to slow down, reset, and find a new appreciation for what’s right in front of her.
The Hendricksons’ move to Aviano went smoothly, but Madison recognizes that this isn’t always the case.
“It’s very normal for spouses to accompany their service member many months after they arrive,” she explains.
Unlike Germany or other European assignments, moving to Italy comes with unique hurdles. Finding suitable housing, securing the proper visa, and understanding spouse employment regulations can all add layers of complexity. Although their own transition was relatively easy, Madison acknowledges that others face steeper learning curves.
Before moving to Italy, Madison held a job she enjoyed. However, due to regulations at the time, she had to resign prior to their PCS. Since then, policies have evolved.
A recent agreement between the U.S. State Department and the Italian government now permits spouses to work remotely for U.S.-based companies, a significant shift in employment opportunities. Yet, the update comes with restrictions. Spouses still can’t work remotely for non-U.S. companies, and guidance on specifics—like taxation and legal compliance—is often murky.
“People are definitely seeking answers,” Madison notes. “They don’t want to get in trouble or double-taxed. There’s no clear guidance.”
This uncertainty leaves many spouses feeling adrift when trying to build their careers abroad. Madison herself tried working on base as a contractor in healthcare, but the compensation didn’t match her experience, and the role wasn’t what she’d expected. After six months, she resigned.
“I wouldn’t even put this job on my resume because it’s really not worth it,” she says, reflecting on the mismatch between her qualifications and the position offered.
Despite the setbacks, Madison’s outlook remains optimistic. Rather than letting career frustration define her time overseas, she’s chosen self-care and personal growth over anxiety about what’s next.
“I’ve always been career-driven and willing to work,” she says. “But this experience has allowed me to explore who I am outside of a job title.”
From traveling to nearby countries like Austria to savoring Italy’s rich culture at a more relaxed pace, Madison has shifted her focus. This period has become a chance to reset, reflect on her identity, and discover new facets of life that she might have overlooked if she were always in a rush.
Madison’s story underscores the complexities of OCONUS life—particularly for military spouses navigating employment, cultural transitions, and evolving regulations. Yet it also reveals the potential rewards of embracing change with an open mind. While not without challenges, her experience in Italy proves that it’s possible to find meaning, personal growth, and even unexpected joy in the face of uncertainty.
Madison has some advice for spouses:
“The best advice that I could give to a spouse living or moving overseas would be to be open-minded. Find something that you would like to improve on or learn and focus on that. Whether it's personal growth or professional growth there are a ton of resources in the military communit
y to help you be the best version of yourself.”
Madison also recommends living overseas if spouses are willing to give it a shot.
“I understand that living OCONUS is not for everyone but if you are interested in it, I would say give it a shot,” said Madison. “You will be amazed at what you will see, the opportunities you will have and also what you can learn about yourself in the process.”
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