Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Amazing- no regrets! Past Review

By (Choral Music Education, University of Maryland - Baltimore County) - abroad from 06/08/2014 to 06/28/2014 with

Global Semesters: Florence - Summer in Florence

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much about the voice. It was definitely worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The music teacher (voice) was amazing- such a special program. I learned SO much. I was really challenged, while having a lot of fun. However, I wish that the Florence University of the Arts had better library times. I had a lot of reading to get done but limited hours to do the reading and you weren't allowed to check the books out.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Olivia Rossi was an amazing host. We went to dinner and had help throughout our trip! She was so fun and knowledgeable!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartment was great, very modern and within walking distance to school and everything in the city of Florence. However, we were roomed with students of a different study abroad program and we did not get along.

* Food:

Food in Italy- amazing! Global semesters had a welcome dinner for us at an authentic Italian restaurant. Very good and a great way to get together with the rest of the group.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

They were very nice, but sometimes hard to communicate. Florence was very touristy.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No issues

* Safety:

Generally felt safe.

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)

1- Luckily I had a lot saved but with eating out and taxis, you spend a lot.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 300
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Start with a budget and don't keep taking out cash.

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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Voice Teacher
  • Food
  • Scenery
* What could be improved?
  • Housing
  • University Resources
  • University Hours
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Should have made a better budget- but it was worth it to just enjoy and not always worry about money.

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!

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Private Voice
Course Department: Music
Instructor: Susanna Piccardi
Instruction Language: English and Italian Voice
Comments: It was challenging but very fun. I learned so many different vocal techniques that I'm now able to bring back to the United States. The teacher was a professional opera singer and unbelievably knowledgeable. Very well prepared with different vocal charts, descriptions, and sheet music. I was assigned valuable readings and a paper on vocal education/young voices, which was perfect for my Music Education Degree.
Credit Transfer Issues: Worked out fine, received three credits.