Florence, Italy changed my life Past Review

By (Fashion Merchandising, Indiana University of Pennsylvania) for

SAI Study Abroad: Florence - Florence University of the Arts (FUA)

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
YES!

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: Florance University of the Arts
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I found my professor to be truly inspirational and helpful. I loved working with them and I feel that I learned more in my classes abroad than I do in some of my classes here at my home university.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I feel that they throw everything at you at once and do not help guide you through the problems.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved my housing location and accommodations. I did not love my roommates but that is not your fault.

* Food:

Campus food is not needed, make your own!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Florence has an epic nightlife and everyone should take part in it.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Very safe, be careful of your wallet and dont trust men.

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

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? None
Language acquisition improvement?

I could have used more practice outside of the classroom with the language. Because Florence is such a tourist destination most people can and will speak English.

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Location and classes!
* What could be improved?
  • Program could be more informative and helpful for adjustment.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Be careful of men who approach you if you are a woman. You will gain a sense of independence and self reliance.