Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Best decision I ever made! Past Review

By (Marketing, Bryant University) for

API (Academic Programs International): Florence - Lorenzo de’ Medici – The Italian International Institute (LDM)

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Interpersonal skills, communicating in another language, independence, and money management skills.

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.

Workload varies. Got heavier towards the end of the semester with final projects and exams.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

API was AMAZING, always available even at night if something happened. API takes students on 4 different trips around Italy. They also host workshops and other helpful meetings throughout the year.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My apartment was north of everything in the city. API provides household items, dishware, sheets and comforters, but you can buy them at IKEA.

* Food:

My program does not provide a food program.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Rome, Venice, and tour of Tuscany were fun. API provided transportation, room, breakfast and free tours. In Tuscany we did a wine tasting tour.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Safety wise you always have to be aware. At night the city is less safe like any other city.

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

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Traveling
  • Food
  • Culture
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Find a city that fits what you are looking for in an experience. For example, I wanted a smaller city like Boston, Florence was the perfect fit for me.