Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics at Lorenzo De Medici were both relevant and authentic. I took a mix of business and Italian culture courses, and each incorporated relevant and modern information that could easily be applicable while abroad or at home.

On-site administration of your program

I had a fantastic experience with API. The administrators were always willing to meet with you about any problems or questions you might have. Courses were easy to switch in and out of, depending on availability.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with 5 other girls in a very old apartment on the 3rd floor. The building was located just outside the heart of the city of Florence - close enough for easy access but far enough where you didn't hear the clubs letting out at 4 or 5am. It was spacious and beautifully decorated, although very simple. There was a washing machine in the apartment (Italians don't really use dryers) and two bathrooms. The apartment was a 30 second walk to the open market where we bought fresh food every day, and a 5 or 10 minute walk to all of my classes.

Stay away from the tourist-trap restaurants. It was a treat to wander around my area and find little hidden shops and restaurants that would have otherwise gone completely unnoticed. The best way to find real Italian food was to look for places that don't have a website and often don't have a sign out front. The tourist places are good for a quick bite before or after class, but if you want authenticity, walk down little side streets and find places where the menu doesn't have English subtitles. I guarantee you'll like whatever you order!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

API planned many day and weekend trips around Italy - Venice and Cinque Terre among many others. They held some cultural events, but mainly encouraged students to go out and explore with friends. They recognized that the best way to learn about the culture was to get away from the study abroad program and immerse yourself in it. They were always available for recommendations on restaurants and trips. The administrators are your best resource, so take advantage of them!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt very safe while in Florence. As a woman, there are some basic safety rules you keep in mind (i.e. not walking home by yourself late at night, traveling alone, etc). The most important thing is to be conscious of your surroundings and making a conscious effort to not put yourself in potentially harmful situations.

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

Most of the courses were taught in English, as it was a study abroad program. The best way to improve your language skills is to directly enroll in an Italian university or make friends with shop owners, cafe workers, waiters, and people at the market. Everyone knows you're American, but if people see you making an effort to try and learn the language, they're more than happy to speak Italian with you. The best way to learn is to immerse yourself in the language in whatever way possible!

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• Apartment

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• Americans