Eye-opening, not what I expected, but better! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall the education was great. They pushed us, however they knew we were here to experience the country as well.

On-site administration of your program

The administration was very helpful in some regards. Academics wise, very helpful, approachable, and considerate. However in the beginning of my stay the housing staff was in my opinion rude and didn't take our concerns seriously. These concerns were about no heat, mold and a gas-like smell.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

This one is a tough one. I loved where I was able to live while I studied abroad in Florence. However, there were multiple problems with the apartment (including water leaks, mold, a gas-like smell and broken heater). When we told administration about these problems they brushed them off as if they were not serious. Being in a new country I was uncomfortable in my living conditions and knowing that these problems were being brushed off when they could have been serious problems was disturbing. I was offended and uncomfortable living in a potentially dangerous apartment. We did not have the number of our landlord so we had to go through the school. Which is fine and I think a good way to go about it. But when we get told to not disrupt the staff on the weekends for problems in our house then there is no one to turn to. I felt isolated and scared at times that no one was there to help. Once again, I loved where I was able to live, however when there were problems with the house (which can be expected) I was not met with understanding, I was met with the sense that my concerns were a burden.

Absolutely loved the food. Had to buy and prepare it myself, loved it!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Towards the end of my stay I felt more integrated. Not knowing the language so well was the barrier. But I felt comfortable in the city.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not need/use healthcare while I was in Italy. However it was nice to know I had it if I needed to use it

Being a woman, I took precaution as I would here in the states as well. I felt safe in Florence. Just always be alert and when possible walk with your friends. I would avoid walking alone if you are a woman.

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

I was able to live on the budget I set for myself, which included traveling on the weekends, this is what really drove up the price per week.

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

Field trips and activities in class encouraged us to use the language often!

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Americans

• Being able to travel easily
• the food!
• all the new experiences!

• Paying for books that were not used in class
• communication between landlord and tenent