Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Florence: An amazing city of opportunity, rich in history Past Review

By (Political Science, University of Maryland - University College) - abroad from 05/23/2014 to 06/28/2014 with

AIFS: Florence - Richmond in Florence and Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned countless items from my experience including more personal independence. It was one hundred percent worthwhile.

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.

The courses I took I Florence were exactly as I had anticipated, fun yet challenging. My art history course was taught almost entirely on-site each day. We toured museums in preparation for exams rather than turning to textbooks. My history of Florence class was also taught almost entirely on-site with a visit to a popular city landmark taking place each morning. The papers that accompanied each course were surprisingly more difficult but for 300-level courses, nothing out of the ordinary. I would repeat these courses if given the opportunity.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartment had a choppy lay-out wit various bedrooms, bathrooms, two kitchens but no living area for everyone to gather at once. Upon arrival, our sheets were soiled and the rooms were dusty. Eventually we had issues with our WiFi connection, our refrigerator, and one of the shower heads.Overall, I was not as impressed with the living arrangements as I had hoped. My roommates were great and I wish we had had a comfortable apartment to communication within.

* Food:

You cannot go wrong with food in Italy, namely Florence. Of all of the cities I toured during my month abroad, Florence won my vote, especially when it came to gelato. Cantina del Gelato was my specific favorite.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt very integrated with the local culture while in Florence. We were able to communicate with various Italians each day, while shopping, dining and walking down the street. By the end of my four weeks, I felt as though I was a local myself.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had no experience with healthcare but the staff appeared well equipped to handle any emergency.

* Safety:

For me, Florence was exceptionally safe. Exercise good judgement at night, particularly around people you are unfamiliar with and if possible, always travel with a group.

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)

Very easily.

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Be mindful of exchange rates and how often to visit the ATM as the fees can add up.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

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?
  • Food
  • Culture
  • Classes
* What could be improved?
  • Housing
  • WiFi expenses
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had balanced my expenses beforehand and understood more about how much I would be spending each week.

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!