A Life-Changing Semester That Shaped My Future! January 30, 2026

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My overall educational experience abroad was one of the most meaningful parts of my time in Florence. Academically, the program challenged me in a different way than my courses at home. My courses were focused on hands-on learning, creativity, discussion, and applying what we were learning to the real world around us. Whether it was participating in class discussions, working on projects, or learning through experiences outside the classroom, the coursework was very engaging. The academic intensity felt very manageable and honestly well-balanced with everything else that comes with studying abroad. Classes required effort, preparation, and active participation, but they never felt overwhelming or unrealistic. Professors were incredibly understanding of the fact that we were living in a new country and encouraged us to learn not only through coursework, but also through experiencing Italy itself. Being able to travel, explore museums, walk through historic neighborhoods, and even take part in cooking classes and cultural activities made what we learned in class feel more real and memorable. One of my biggest strengths of the program was the support and resources available to students. My professors were approachable and genuinely invested in our success, always willing to help, give feedback, or talk through ideas one-on-one. SAI and FUA also provided consistent academic and personal support throughout the semester, which made adjusting to a new academic system feel much less intimidating. Overall, I had an amazing time through this program and the educational experience pushed me to grow academically while also helping me gain independence, confidence, and a deeper global perspective.

On-site administration of your program

The on-site administration through SAI programs was incredibly supportive and well organized. From before going abroad, to orientation and through the end of the semester, the staff made adjusting to life in Florence feel smooth and completely manageable. They were always approachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in student well-being and safety, whether it was academics, housing, or daily life questions. SAI also offered cultural activities and excursions that enhanced the experience and helped students connect more deeply with Italy. Overall, the strong on-site support made me feel confident and supported throughout my entire study abroad experience.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing through SAI programs was a positive part of my experience overall. My apartment was centrally located in Florence, which made it easy to walk to class, explore the city, and feel immersed in daily life. Living with other students also helped me build friendships quickly and made the transition to living abroad feel less intimidating. The apartment was comfortable and functional, and any issues that came up were handled quickly once communicated. Having housing arranged ahead of time relieved a lot of stress and allowed me to focus on all of the other pre-departure tasks before going abroad. Overall, the housing experience supported both my academic and personal experience abroad and helped make Florence feel like home.

Food was one of my favorite parts of living in Italy. Being Florence meant having constant access to fresh, high-quality food, whether it was cooking at home or sitting down at a local restaurant. I loved shopping at local markets and grocery stores and learning how much emphasis Italian culture places on fresh ingredients and simple, well-made meals. Food was a major part of both my academic and cultural experience as well. Through SAI Programs "Viva Experiences", I participated in activities like pizza-making classes, street food tours, and guided market visits and tastings. These experiences allowed me to learn about Italian food culture in a hands-on and interactive way rather than just observing it. Also, several of my classes incorporated in-class tastings and visits to local food establishments, which made learning feel hands-on and memorable. Being able to taste regional products, learn where they came from, and understand their cultural significance added so much depth to the coursework. Class trips to markets, cafes, and local establishments allowed us to see how food is produced, prepared, and enjoyed in everyday life. Overall, it was an extremely important part of how I learned when I was abroad and these activities deepened my understanding of Italian traditions and made food an important way I connected with the culture while living in Florence.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Through SAI, my study abroad experience allowed me to feel genuinely integrated into life in Florence. Living in the city, navigating daily routines, and interacting with locals helped me feel immersed rather than like a tourist. Whether it was ordering a cappuccino, going grocery shopping, or simply walking through the city, I became more comfortable over time. Socially, studying abroad made it easy to form strong connections with other students through shared classes, housing, and program activities. SAI events and excursions helped create a sense of community while still allowing independence.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any major health issues while abroad, but health care felt very accessible and well-organized. SAI Programs provided clear information and preparation ahead of time about what to do if medical care was needed, which gave me a lot of peace of mind. Pharmacies were easy to find throughout Florence, and minor health needs felt simple to address. Overall, health-related resources in place made me feel safe and supported while living abroad for the semester.

I felt very safe throughout my time abroad in Florence. SAI programs provided clear safety information during orientation, including practical guidance on common concerns like pickpocketing in busy tourist areas. This helped me feel prepared rather than anxious and encouraged smart, aware behavior. Florence felt like a walkable and generally safe city, especially when being mindful in crowded areas and on public transportation. Knowing what to watch out for and having a strong on-site support system made it easy to navigate the city confidently. Overall, safety resources were well-communicated, and I felt supported and secure throughout my experience abroad.

Yes, I would 100% absolutely choose SAI with Florence University of the Arts program again! The balance of academics, cultural immersion, and on-site support made the experience so meaningful. The hands-on learning opportunities, supportive SAI staff, and strong preparation from my home institution allowed me to fully immerse myself in life in Florence while still growing academically and personally. Looking back, I wouldn't change anything about my experience!

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

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

The program encouraged using Italian regularly, especially in daily life. While many classes were taught in English, students were motivated to practice Italian when ordering food, shopping, navigating the city, and interacting with locals. This made language use feel natural and practical rather than forced, and it helped me become more comfortable using Italian throughout the semester.

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Americans
• Other

• Always felt supported (pre-departure prep, health, safety, travel questions, everything)
• On-site staff and pre-assigned housing
• Viva experiences and immersive courses

• Can't think of anything! I love SAI and FUA!

The Outright Urbanite