Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Florence was amazing - can't wait to go back! Past Review

By (Political Science And International Studies, SUNY - Stony Brook) - abroad from 08/28/2014 to 12/14/2013 with

Florence University of The Arts: Florence - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to relax and to take advantage of all of the opportunities available to me.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I had the best semester at Florence this past Fall 2013. I was able to take very interesting classes, including an Italian cooking class and a class entitled "Chemistry in the Visual arts." Aside from classes, I took part in many of the university hosted weekend trips where I was able to go to Siciliy, Venice, Parma, and Rome. This was an experience that I will never forget!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They were all great and very helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had an amazing apartment with a great view of the Arno River!

* Food:

Amazing!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Everything
* What could be improved?
  • Integration with the locals
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Saved more money.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.