Florence: A Semester I'll Never Forget Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was not terrible, based more upon reading than anything else. Grade wise we were unaware of how we were doing until the middle term and had no idea again after that. The teachers liked to lecture and include class discussions and field trips which was a great experience. The difference in the systems was that the European one was far more laid back and based more upon the honor system. I loved it.

On-site administration of your program

FUA was extremely accommodating to American students. The only weakness I felt was noteworthy was that the library had very short finals, which was extremely inconvenient during midterms and finals as I lived in an apartment with 9 girls and it was next to impossible to get work done there. Once there, Fairfield had little to do with us and left most communication to us with our school, landlords, etc. They continually requested program reviews and held a few events but nothing was mandatory and they were extremely out of the loop with the students.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing was wonderful because I got along so well with my housemates, and the location was wonderful being only a block from school. Integration into a real Italian living situation was rewarding, and my roommates and I still keep in touch and have many visits planned for next semester!

Some other programs received monthly money coupons for food vouchers that were good in many local restaurants and grocery stores. While these did not last them for the entire month, it was very helpful to them financially which was good for foreign students learning to use and balance the new currency. We were given no food or suggestions, but I would recommend Gusta Pizza for a great cheap pizza, and Salumeria Verdi for quick cheap paninis. The American diner was good for when you are homesick or want real breakfast, and Yellow Bar is an inexpensive pasta dish. Gelateria dei Neri has great gelato! The food was the best part of the experience.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Fairfield took us to Perugia, San Gimignano, Siena and Perugia during orientation. They also took us to Ikea which was a wonderful idea and was very helpful.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

There was a meningitis outbreak at a club and the program did check on us to make sure we were not present. They did also provide us with healthcare cards which were useful.

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

Language was mostly in class, but many people spoke English and if you knew enough Spanish you could get by. The Italians were for the most part, very patient with Americans especially regarding language barriers.

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Americans

• Location
• The Experience

• Host and Home University Communication
• Accommodating students