It was an experience I will never forget Past Review
By Katherine S (Marketing, Bryant University) for
API (Academic Programs International): Florence - Lorenzo de’ Medici – The Italian International Institute (LDM)
I gained an understanding of how diverse this world is. It made me realize just how much there is to still learn as well. This makes me want to find a way in the future to continue to experience other cultures.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The workload was less than that of Bryant. The classes were very interactive as we often took field trips around the city. The grading system varied among teachers. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Strengths: Location, providing knowledge of the Italian culture, good size of classes Weaknesses: Not a wide diversity of non-American students |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The location was in a great area of the city. My walk to class was not far. API arranged my housemates and did a wonderful job. The apartment was clean, filled with essentials (sheets, kitchen supplies, desks, washer etc.), and very spacious. |
| * Food: |
The quality of food was very good, fruits and vegetables available are only what is in season so there are no artificial preservatives |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
API hosted several excursions that were all excellent. The weekend trips included Rome, Venice, and a tour of Tuscany. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I did not have any personal safety issues although as in any city, at home or abroad, you need to be aware of your surroundings |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
It was a requirement to take an Italian course. Many people in Florence spoke English, although it was important to know the basics of the language. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | This is a great program that will provide you as much or as little support you desire throughout your trip. The type of student that would benefit most would be independent who is open to new cultures. It is also important to be able to "go with the flow" since there are always little things that come up (i.e. getting lost, missing a train, change of plans, waiting) |
