Josie Sobecks
University of South Carolina / Florence University of the Arts, Fall 2022
Studying abroad with SAI Programs has been one of the defining moments of my college career and my life. I was lucky enough to work in the Florence office as their semester intern, and I made so many amazing connections with the SAI on-site staff. My experience abroad has helped me to develop my passions for language learning and travel. I learned how to step outside of my comfort zone and bridge cultural differences to building lasting connections with others. It helped me to become fearless in travel situations and build my self confidence when traveling as well as in life.
Kiersten Beh
Rochester Institute of Technology / Paris College of Art, Summer 2023
Before I even committed to RIT, I knew I wanted to study abroad during college. I had taken French courses since middle school and really wanted to find a francophone destination to immerse myself in. I am so thankful for the amazing experiences that SAI has offered me while studying in Paris. This was my first international experience. I learned so much about Parisian culture and was able to use my French with locals and even make a few friends! Through my classes, I picked up a love for jewelry making. Another important thing I discovered about myself was that I enjoy traveling. After my time in Paris, there are so many more places I want to explore abroad and in the States. Studying abroad ultimately developed my confidence in exploring new places.
Rebekah Bestebreur
Washington State University / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
To put it simply: studying abroad changed my life. I learned how to appreciate the small moments, connect with the local community, and most importantly I gained a better understanding of who I was as an individual. Studying abroad truly changed my perspective and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to call Florence my home. Through it all SAI remained a helping hand and the moments and memories made in Florence will be cherished forever.
Annabelle Bradford Brunschwig
Colorado State University / Elisava, Spring 2023
Studying abroad was the best decision I’ve made, and a big part of the reason why is because of SAI. Moving to a new country, knowing no one, I was out of my comfort zone but I met the most incredible people at my University and in SAI programs that helped me navigate through it. I learned more about myself in 4 months abroad than ever before. For that reason and many more, I would recommend SAI and studying abroad to anyone interested.
Stephanie Carlin
University of South Carolina / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
Studying abroad can be empowering, surprising, overwhelming, fun, scary, eye-opening, beautiful, and everything in between. I would do it all again in a heartbeat. I loved Florence, the SAI staff, their helpful tips, and the activities they organized like fresh pasta making, painting classes, circular economy tours, food tours, etc. They were always there to teach us cultural and beautiful things through fun and interesting activities. It helped me become immersed in the culture and community and create memories and connections. I traveled to 8 new countries and 20 cities across Europe; where I learned about different cultures and economies, tried local cuisines, and admired stunning architecture and views. It was an experience of a lifetime and I am thankful for SAI’s unwavering support.
Brett Eppinger
University of South Carolina / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
Having the ability to study abroad made me realize how much I wanted to live in Florence, Italy. From the food and wine to the fashion aspect of the city, everything fit into my life perfectly. I made very good friends with business owners and locals around my age to set myself up for a hopeful future in Florence Post-Grad.
Bella Facchini
Auburn University / Sant’Anna Institute, Summer 2023
Studying abroad was such a transformative experience, I learned so much about myself and the world around me. I experienced more than I ever could have imagined and it expanded my love for travel. Every weekend brought a new adventure with new friends and experiences. While every week led to new connections in and outside the classroom.
If you are looking to grow in your independence, values and knowledge, SAI is the perfect program for you. I started the first five weeks in Sorrento very anxious and knowing no one. However, I left the program with life long friendships that I will cherish forever, a stronger sense of self, and memories that will last a lifetime. Sorrento will always have a piece of my heart and I could not have chosen a better program to help me fulfill my study abroad dreams.
Elina Graham
University of San Francisco / Florence University of the Arts, Academic Year 2022/2023
It’s not an exaggeration to say that studying abroad was the catalyst for my new way of life. Before my travels, I only stuck with things I knew; however, due to all the adventures (and sometimes, misadventures) that I experienced while studying abroad, I learned how much more I get out of my day when I’m living it to the fullest. SAI was the perfect program for me, as they provided support and opportunities along the way without holding my hand 24/7.
Grace Harris
Belmont University / John Cabot University, Spring 2023
Everyone says it, but studying abroad truly was the best decision I’ve ever made. I gained so many experiences & friendships that I wouldn’t have, had I not thrown myself into this opportunity. Getting to visit vast parts of the world and emerge myself into new cultures, gave me knowledge I’ll carry with me the rest of my life.
Amber Herrmann
Northern Illinois University / Syracuse University, Spring 2023
Studying abroad with SAI is an experience I’ll never forget. I’ve always wanted to study abroad in Italy, and spending 4 weeks in Sicily was the perfect way to submerge myself in Italian culture. Some things I learned during this experience were how to be more independent, how to manage school work while traveling, and adapting to living in another country. I’m very thankful for the friendships I’ve made through studying abroad, along with the things I have learned about myself.
Keely Hunt
Oklahoma State University / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
Choosing to study abroad is something I will truly never forget. Going abroad challenged me to step outside my comfort zone to make connections in unfamiliar settings. Living in Florence gave me a sense of independence and self-reliance I would not have been able to find in a familiar environment. Between the engaging and hands-on coursework to the breathtaking experiences, my time in Florence was better than I could have ever imagined. Overall, I could not be more grateful for SAI for this experience. They allowed me the opportunity to make this experience my own while giving me support and guidance as needed.
William Johnson
University of South Carolina / John Cabot University, Spring 2023
I am filled with immense gratitude for the incredible time I had during my semester abroad in Rome, Italy. The experience was truly beyond words, and I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to explore Europe and cross it off my bucket list. Rome’s beauty, history, and culture left a lasting impact on me, and I made cherished memories and lifelong friends along the way.
SAI, the program I chose, played a significant role in making this journey unforgettable. The program leaders were exceptional, offering unwavering support throughout the entire process, from preparation to adjustment upon arrival. Their guidance and assistance made the transition smooth, and I am thankful for the valuable insights they provided throughout my time abroad.
Living in Europe for four months felt like living in a dream, and I will forever treasure the long nights filled with laughter and the breathtaking days spent exploring the stunning landscapes and historical landmarks. The experience has undoubtedly transformed my perspective on life, and I will dearly miss the camaraderie with my roommates and the sense of adventure that enveloped every moment.
Overall, my time in Rome has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I am grateful beyond words for this life-changing experience.
Zoe Lewis
St. Norbert College / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
Studying abroad with SAI taught me so much about myself and other cultures. I learned the importance of exploring more of the world around me using my independence, while also having support through this program to ensure I was safe and getting the most out of my experience. SAI had amazing planned activities along with offering help and providing information for other interests I had throughout my travels, and I was able to create many lasting memories and learn a lot through the classes.
Max Mancheski
University of Mississippi / John Cabot University, Spring 2023
I studied in Rome, Italy at JCU. It was the best decision I ever made, and SAI made the process a lot less stressful.
Maddy Muldoon
University of South Carolina / Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spring 2023
My experience studying abroad was better than I ever could have imagined. Although I definitely felt culture shock in the beginning, SAI provided so many amazing opportunities for me to meet my new best friends. I was able to call Barcelona my second home, and walk away with so many new memories and people in my life. If I could do it again, I wouldn’t change a thing! Studying abroad was the best decision I ever made and I am so proud of how I was able to adapt to a new life across the world.
Emily Osman
University of South Carolina / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
Studying abroad was the best decision I made in my college career! Not only did I spend a semester in a new country taking interesting classes and traveling on the weekends, but I also made a new home for myself in Florence. I will forever cherish the time I spent in Florence, and I hope to return. Thanks to SAI, I was able to get out of my comfort zone and grow as an individual.
Claire Psillas
University of South Carolina / Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spring 2023
My time spent with SAI in Barcelona was an unforgettable experience that will forever be etched in my memory. SAI swiftly transformed into a second family, consistently encouraging me to fully immerse myself in every opportunity and maximize my potential throughout the journey. If only I could relive my entire semester abroad with them.
Annie Rich
University of Georgia / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
Grateful is an understatement looking back on my time abroad. Studying through SAI helped me grow and learn in ways that I never expected. I want as many people as possible to have the experience that I had!
Lexi Roden
University of South Carolina / Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spring 2023
Studying abroad is something I have wanted to do for as long as I can remember. I’ve always thought traveling to different countries and learning about different cultures would be an invaluable experience. However, I was not prepared for how much I would learn about the world and myself. SAI helped me to become a person with appreciation and love for different people, places, and ways of life. I truly feel the experience made me a better version of myself.
Antonia Saparto
University of Alabama / John Cabot University, Spring 2023
Studying abroad through SAI truly made my dreams of traveling come true. The program was by my side for everything during my abroad experience and allowed me to establish a community so quickly the second I landed in Rome. I could not be more thankful to have studied through SAI and now get to help the team!
Sara Seth
The University of Alabama / John Cabot University, Spring 2023
SAI became my home away from home while studying abroad in Italy. They helped me navigate cultural shock, got me into my routine, and gave me a shoulder to lean on. My experience would not have been the same without this program. Truly, I had the best time traveling around the world and can’t wait to help others create their experiences!
Annie Stearns
Saint Mary’s College of California / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
The study abroad process can be very intimidating but the wonderful staff at SAI work with you from the very beginning to ensure your success. The SAI team based in the US is happy to answer any questions you may have about the application process and the onsite team can help with any issues that come up during your time abroad. The team in Florence hosted super fun events like pizza making and gold leafing classes, took students on super fun excursions to different places in the area, and were a warm and welcoming face in a country where I didn’t know anyone!
Caroline Thomas
University of South Carolina / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
My experience abroad was so special and what made it so amazing was going through SAI. Whether it was my roommates, weekly excursions and experiences included through the program, my course options at FUA, and the staff onsite, everything I needed was at my fingertips and so many people helped me through my journey in Florence. Knowing what I know now, for anyone considering going abroad, I always tell them to go through SAI because I know no matter where they end up they’ll have just as wonderful of a time as I did during my semester abroad.
Caroline Venable
University of Mississippi / Florence University of the Arts, Spring 2023
Going into my semester abroad I was nervous about the unknown yet so excited for the endless opportunities to come. My expectations were far exceeded and the impact this program had on me was something I’ll never forget. Studying abroad taught me so much about the world but also myself. I challenged myself in ways I never thought was possible and it was truly life changing. I got to meet so many amazing people abroad and still keep in touch with them today. Getting to live in Florence for 15 weeks was better than I could’ve ever imagined. While being abroad I got the opportunity to visit 7 different countries and 18 different cities in Italy. This opportunity would have never been possible without the support and guidance of SAI.
Sarah Webb
Missouri State University / John Cabot University, Spring 2023
My experience abroad with SAI was wonderful! Being involved in SAI activities help me to understand the culture in Italy. Without SAI, I would never have the experience like I did when I was in Italy.
