I WANT TO GO BACK. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I loved the teaching style compared to typical university schooling. Classes were so hands on and lessons were made applicable to real-life situations. It was the perfect level of intensity to both learn substantially while keeping assignments flexible to allow for traveling and extra curricular activities. I never felt overwhelmed with homework but also never thought what I was learning was irrelevant or too simple. The only thing I would suggest is better internet access and stronger wi-fi.

On-site administration of your program

All SAI staff members were extremely helpful the entire course of the program. Excursions were very coordinated and I was always comfortable talking to administration if I was in need of something.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing was centrally located and very clean. While it could get a bit crowded with 7 girls divided into 3 rooms, it was good to be able to get to know other students. The only recommendations I have is better water heating.

While the program did not supply a meal plan, the resources available were very reasonable. There were grocery stores nearby and many local restaurants gave us students discounts.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The town of Sorrento was very welcoming and locals were extremely friendly to us. The school staff kept us involved with Italian traditions and holiday festivities. We made friends with other students and business owners who also included us in cultural activities and taught us about life in Sorrento.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

While the hospital in Sorrento was a bit different than what I am used to here in America, health care was never an issue. I required medical attention while studying over there and the school and program staff were quick to help and went out of their way to make sure I received the help I needed.

There was never any moment that I felt unsafe or uncomfortable during my stay. Sorrento was a very friendly environment and I never experienced unfriendly male attention as my father worried I might.

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

Well, I am a bit of a shop-a-holic so my answer is a bit biased. However, were I to choose to live on a frugal budget, I would have certainly been able to. There were plenty of opportunities for cheap groceries and traveling was feasibly priced compared to America. Nightlife was as expensive as you made it and every day sight seeing was generally free of cost.

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

I took Italian 101 as my language course and I am very thankful this class was required on the program. The only thing I knew how to say in Italian was "hello" before my arrival and by the end of my stay I was able to partake in basic conversations and understand even more. The school and even locals frequently encouraged us to use and continue learning the language. Particularly our italian teacher who generally taught the entire class in Italian.

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Americans

• How organized everything was
• Traveling accessibility
• How friendly the staff were

• Better budgeting
• Stronger Internet connection
• More hot water?