Study Abroad helped me become a lot more independent Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

You learn inside the classroom and out. I learned so much about art, but I also learned a lot about cultural differences and different ways of life.

On-site administration of your program

They were fine. They check up on you occassionaly and you can go to them with any questions you have. They give you packets with recomended places to go that give you discounts and such which can be very important since you pay for your own food etc. They also warn you if you have any attendance problems etc.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We had a landlord and lived in an apartment by the ponte vecchio. It was about a ten to 15 minute walk from school and had decent living conditions. Our apartment was a little small, but it was cute and cozy. We had some internet problems, but you can call your landlord if there are any problems. We were the only english speakers in our apartment building and the only students however the neighbors were very nice. Be prepared for lots of stairs and timed light switchs. <br /><br /> The beds were slightly uncomfortable and the apartment was pretty small, but that meant less cleaning so it was all good. I was satisfied with the living arrangemants. The neighborhood was very safe and we were right in the center of Florence. The location was to die for, you could walk to everything. You could see the Duomo, ponte vecchio,and the Ufitzi every day. And you were also close to all the night life. It was a fun place to be. You didn't really have to buy anything. Sheets and everything were there.

Italy has excellent food. Try to change things up though. I got kind of sick of pasta. Gelato and Kabob's are delicious and very prevalent in Italy. And of cousre pasta and pizza are everywhere.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I loved the feild trips through the school. I got to meet cool people and see some truely beautiful places. I went on the feild trip to Carnival in Venice, hiking through the alps, and the french rivera. All were amazing experiences. I also did some not related travels through bus to alps. Another great resource for travel.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

You kind of had to fend for your self as far as health. Getting to an english speaking docotor can be difficult. I would suggest bring lots of medication from home like advil and cough medicine and things of that nature. Finding things at pharmacies can be slightly difficult if you dont know what to look for.

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

I had taken many years of spanish before I went which helped in some ways but hurt in others. They are very similar so it is easy to pick up on, but its also easy to get them confused because they are so close. Again to improve make sure you study and befriend locals. I ended up dating an italian guy and that actually helps a lot haha.

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• Americans

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• Americans