Would have stayed if I didn't have to come back! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program is very small so the instructors were more like close friends and mentors, there was always discussion on how to go about doing things, planning ahead. Although I was enrolled in 3 different studio classes and an art history, my time in the studio became a collective and collaboration between both students and between the classes.

On-site administration of your program

The administration were also our teachers so we developed a close relationship with them. They had answers to any questions about Florence, traveling, the language... I was surprised as to how small the program was when I arrived but I am happy that it was so small, it was as close to a personal studio in Florence as you could get, amazing. This also meant we got personal attention pertaining to our work, every step of the way.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Our apartment was a 20 minute walk to school and the center of Florence. Firenze Arti Visive rents the apartment and our rent was included in the tuition. The walk to and from school was a little annoying from time to time, especially after a full day in the studio but looking back on it I am glad I had to walk along The Arno or in the streets with real people everyday and night. Plus my legs are all muscle now! ( A cab ride home varies from 5- 12 euro)The apartment itself was comfortable, laundry, full kitchen, living room. Cookware and linens included.

As far as food shopping goes, there are two larger grocery stores, Billa and COOP. I regularly used both places, COOP has a better selection but when it is closed on Sundays or after 9pm during the week I would go to Billa for anything I needed. There are also open air markets all over the city, San Lorenzo Market, St. Ambrogio, and a small farmers market in Santo Spirito (only in the morning). Restaurants, you have to try them all just for the experience! I really loved La Ghiotta on Via Pietrapiana.(Cheaper fantastic food!)

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Our Contemporary Art Teacher took us to Venice where we visited the Venice Architecture Biennale which was incredible, we also went to Rome with her to the Maxxi (Contemporary Art Museum). The Food and Culture Teacher would always take us to restaurants, most of the time places where local Florentines would go so it was nice to have a 'guide' show us around. She also took us to the Impruneta Grape Festival, La Marzocco factory (espresso machines), and other small field trips. We got to see things we would otherwise not even have thought to experience. Having her as a guide was having one foot in the door to the Italian culture.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any health issues while abroad but as a student you are required to purchase emergency health care just in case. The school itself is very careful about safety, they dont want anyone getting hurt, chemical equipment etc was all explained on the first day. I felt very safe in Florence, there are always people around and it's such a small city, people seem to look out for each other.

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

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