API Florence: An Unforgettable and Incredible Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The work load was extremely managable and the grading systems were both fair and clear. I loved the teaching methods because all of my professor's had expectations, but were more laid back than professor's in the US. The educational system in Italy places a larger grading focus on papers and tests rather than participation and effort. I also found that it was vital to attend all classes because class meetings were generally once a week.

On-site administration of your program

Fantastic support and services from pre-departure through returning back to the US. They were extremely welcoming, knowledgable, and a fun group to travel with on excursions. The excursions that they planned for our program exceeded my expectations. I also thought that the program size was great and gave the chance to form close connections with new friends and people within the program.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My roommates and I were lucky enough to live in a converted apartment within the former Medici family palace. The size was incredible and amenities were very comfortable. I felt safe where our apartment was due to its proximity to the Duomo and the center of Firenze. The proximity to classes was only about 3 blocks (or a ten minute walk.) Our apartment came fully stocked with kitchen ware and sheets. I ended up buying a bath towel because I had forgot to bring one. I would suggest packing a bath towel because the towels in Italy are extremely small.

The food was excellent. With API, food is not included and I was forced to buy groceries. I loved buying fresh foods from the local market every couple of days and enjoyed cooking back at the apartment. In the various restaurants and trattorias, the food was amazing. I would recommend to dine at Dante's Trattoria and go to Acqua al Due. Those were two of my favorite places.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I enjoyed going to the local Firenze futbol games with API. Also, the API excursions to Venice,Rome, and Lucca were a lot of fun, well planned out, and managed.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The biggest thing concerning safety that I would suggest is for all girls to walk in groups, especially at night. I would suggest having a couple of American guy friends walk you home at night because Italian men can be a bit intimidating. Overall, Florence is a very safe city...especially where API has placed the school and housing. I did end up having to go to the doctor during my stay due to an ear infection/cold. The health care system is very different because they expect you to pay for the doctor visit/medications up front in cash or using a credit card. The program reimburses you after you get home, but it can be expensive. The doctors have set hours and are usually called in to the office when you go to see them. Also, doctors make 24 hour house calls if need be and this can be expensive. I never had to have a doctor make a house call, but one of my friends needed to be seen and had to pay a good amount of money for the visit.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I practiced my language within Italian classes as well as with my roommates and friends in the program. I also found that the best way to learn Italian was to be fully immersed in it. I forced myself to use the language on a daily basis in local cafes and the out door markets. Interacting with the locals is the best way to learn the language. Yet, most Italians could either speak and/or understand English in all of the major cities.

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• Apartment

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• Americans