Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A Life-Changing Semester April 11, 2022

By (Architecture, Syracuse University) - abroad from 09/15/2021 to 11/30/2021 with

Syracuse University: Florence - Syracuse University in Florence

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
While I was abroad, my world view was definitely expanded as I got exposed to more cultures and global issues.

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.

A diverse range of course were offered in Florence that applied to many of my personal and academic interests! My favorite academic experience were the field trips we took for Survey of Italian Architecture

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

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)

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

At every possible opportunity, we were encouraged to speak in Italian, even if our vocabulary was limited. This cultural immersion improved my experience in Italy.

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? Intermediate
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? As soon as I was admitted to the SU Florence program, I started practicing Italian on Duolingo so that I would have a basic vocabulary when I arrived.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* 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?
  • Field Trips / Learning on Site
  • Local Cuisine
  • Historical Architecture
* What could be improved?
  • Pre-arrival language lessons
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? If I could do it all over again, I would try and explore some of the more niche locations in Florence like local bookstores, artist collectives, or restaurants, instead of starting with the famous and touristy spots.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!