Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Experience of a Life Time June 23, 2023

By (Business, Saint Leo University) - abroad from 01/24/2022 to 05/02/2022 with

SAI Study Abroad: Florence - Florence University of the Arts (FUA)

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Europe is beautiful and full of history. If you go and don't appreciate the local history, you're missing out. I learned so much and will forever say Florence is my favorite place on Earth.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

ISA was so responsive and understanding. They assist you every step of the way.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I liked the location of my apartment, however my roommates weren't nice. The apartment was very small and we were pretty tight.

* Food:

The food at the FUA was always the BEST! Italian food in general is so good.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Since I am fully bilingual it was very easy for me to understand Italian and grasp the language.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

It is safe however, pickpocketing is a big thing in Italy. There are a lot of scammers on the streets. They come up offering you a gift such as a bracelet and then try to sell it to you overly priced or this may be a distraction to pickpocket you. Always be aware of your belongings and surroundings.

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

When I went abroad, it was a very difficult time for me. My father had just past away a month prior. It was something I had shared with him and in his honor I didn't give up even though I was grieving and just wanted to stay home. If I could I would to this all over again. This changed my life for the better and become the person I am today.

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)

Unfortunately, conversion cost are very expensive, which is something students should take into consideration when traveling abroad. $200 could be a good estimate on food & personal expenses if you choose to eat in every day and not travel.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $400 weekly
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Omio is a great app to book trips. Ryan Air and Vueling Airlines will be your best friends.

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

I took an Italian course however the overall program was in English.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Duolingo and Practice the language with locals.

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?
  • My fashion courses.
* What could be improved?
  • Communication between student and professor.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Feeling overwhelmed is normal. It is super hard to make friends in your program unless you come with them.

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.