Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The best part was that was able to take classes that I would not have been able to take at PC, such as Food Photography and the History of the Italian Renaissance. Also, all of the teachers were fantastic. Very easy to get along with and they all knew what they were talking about, very impressed. The workload was very different, as in not a lot of every day work but just build up around mid term and test times. I also liked the 2.5 hour classes, made the week go by faster.

On-site administration of your program

Fairfield did a solid job with the program. They provided assistance whenever needed and organized plenty of activities for students every couple of weeks. The program dinners were awesome and got us to experience some real italian food. Very accesible and helpful. Both Brooke and Joanne were knowledgeable about the host country. Program size was just right. Overall, very good.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived at Via Martelli 3 essentially next to the Duomo. It was all students throughout the building. Great location and the building was in good shape. Appliances and everything were all solid, and the administration was helpful when anything went wrong. <br /><br /> Housing was very good. In the middle of everything, very close to the nightlight and a short walk from the school. Also easy to access the grocery storesv and Euro Stores. Came fully furnished and we didn't really need to buy anything. Not the best but good condition.

It was a struggle at first to have to cook the majority of time. Without a meal plan, it was very expensive to eat as I had to buy all my own groceries or go out to eat. But, now my cooking skills are much better. Billa and Centro were good grocerie stores. Pino's and Antiqo Noe made great sandwhiches for lunch. Gusta Pizza has the best pizza in town. Teatro and Al Qua Due are great places to eat out.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Socially and non-academic in Florence was fantastic. The sights throughout the city are amazing and endless. Some of my favorite Italian places include Venice, Cinque Terre, and Viareggio. The programs put on by the program were not that great, but the orientation weekend to Assisi and Perugia was a lot of fun and well organized.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt very safe in this city, more so than around PC. Mostly, just don't be stupid when out drinking and always walk home with a friend. Health wise, the only experience I had was that my room mate broke his wrist and we went to the hospital with him. The program assistant, Brooke, was very helpful in this process. It took a while but he got a cast and everything.

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

Being able to speak a little bit of Italian was a real plus while abroad, as I could communicate with food vendors and simply state what I wanted. However, most of the people spoke at least broken english so it was not completely necassary. Practicing it, studying and using it as much as possible is the best way to improve the skills. It really takes effort.

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Americans

Select all that apply

• Americans