As I am finishing up my final exams at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, I’ve been spending a lot of time reflecting on the ways I’ve grown throughout the past semester and the experiences that made it all possible. On September 1st, I landed in Barcelona with not a single idea of how I would spend my time abroad.
Andrea, Fall 2022, Florence University of the Arts
I arrived in Florence and immediately fell in love with the city and all the culture and history it holds. Walking past the Duomo on my way to class every morning and experiencing the city buzz with energy every day felt like a dream. I learned so much about the history of Italy and adjusted to the everyday lifestyle of a Florentine.
Rome, Italy is sweltering hot during the summer. When I arrived for my semester abroad in late August, I underestimated the difficulty of managing the heat. Since then, I have learned copious strategies for dealing with the temperature. Here are my favorite, and sometimes desperate, ways of staying cool. Water The best way to get water is by filling up a water bottle at one of Rome’s street fountains, called nasone (plural nasoni) in Italian.
Besides the delicious food, one of my favorite things about Florence is that there is always something new to see or explore, whether it is hidden or in plain sight. Florence is such a lively and diverse city, bearing a unique experience for every person, mood, and day. To make the most of my time here (and improve my navigation skills!), I make an effort to always walk down different streets.
So you’re in the process of preparing for your study abroad adventure. You’ve finally sorted through your clothes and picked out the best fits, ordered some international currency, checked your flight status 27 times. But are you forgetting anything? Aside from the essentials we need to pack for these experiences, we tend to overlook the importance of creative outlets.
Are you looking for an Italian study abroad experience that allows you to connect to the Italian culture without the hustle and bustle of city life? Sorrento could be the place for you! Compared to the population of Rome (2,873,000) or Florence (382,000), Sorrento provides a more intimate experience with a population of only 16,609. That’s less than the undergraduate population at the University of South Carolina!
It is hard to believe that it has already been a year since I packed my things and flew to Florence, Italy for a semester abroad. Going in, I had so much uncertainty about my ability to adjust to a different culture, converse in another language, and make connections with locals. However, I also had a deep excitement that carried me forward despite my nerves.
My name is Hallie Anderson, and I am in the class of ’24 at University of Missouri studying food science. If you would have told me when I was 4 years old putting my first batch of brownies into an easy bake oven that someday I would be across the world taking culinary classes, I would never have believed you.
Studying abroad is one of the best ways to learn more about yourself and the world around you. I was privileged to study abroad in January 2023 in Florence, Italy. I attended the Florence University of the Arts (FUA) and encountered various new experiences, especially finding my independence. Attending FUA allowed me to leave the United States for the first time in my life.
While in Florence on my three week study abroad trip, my Art History class took me to “The Great Synagogue of Florence” or Tempio Maggiore. The Synagogue was easily my favorite place I went to in Florence, not only because of its stunning architecture and grand interior, but because of its story.
These are just a few of my top places to visit while in Florence! 1- Piazzale Michelangelo The Piazzale Michelangelo has the most magical view in Florence, which makes it my number one must-visit spot. You can see everything from the Plaza: the Arno, the Duomo, and all the beautiful buildings and streets. The panoramic view shows just how beautiful this city really is. I recommend grabbing your favorite pizza in Florence (mine is Biancazerozero!)
As I leave behind my life in South Florida, and begin my new journey in southern Italy, I can only take a few things with me to comfort me through this amazing experience, one of them being the practice of meditation.
I had the opportunity to work at three different schools in the outer parts of Florence. Each class that I worked in gave me different experiences and lessons that I will take with me when I leave to go back to the United States. The first class I worked with were a group of 3rd grade students which I learned to love.
“I will never have this version of me again. Let me slow down and be with her” – Rupi Kaur. Slow down, read that over again. I read this quote last year and immediately went into a deep reflection. I reflected on my school life, work life, and social life. There are so many different aspects of my life where I tend to overwork myself and not enjoy where I am both physically and mentally.
My time volunteering this semester while abroad in Florence has been an amazing experience. I volunteer quite often at home to gain service hours for my sorority but also just because it makes me feel good to do acts of service and to know I am helping at least one person if not multiple. When I found out about this program through SAII wanted to get involved.
Many people make studying abroad look like this glamorous life of traveling to cool places, eating delicious food, and partying until the sunrises, but there’s a lot more that isn’t shown on instagram. Traveling is not always seamless, sometimes you’re just going to want Chick-fil-a, and the videos aren’t always as fun as they seem. You actually have to do school and your normal responsibilities.
Living in Milan is nothing like I ever thought it would be. But let me put it this way; I love every minute of it! I have been living in Milan for almost 2 months now while studying at Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA). Before studying abroad, I had never left the East Coast of the United States, let alone leave the country! This was such a big jump for me.
Florence is one of the most historical cities in the world. The amount of history, architecture, and art in this beautiful city is astonishing. The most famous attractions in Florence include the Uffizi gallery, the Accademia Gallery of Florence where you can see Michelangelo’s David, the Gucci Gardens, the Medici Palace, and of course, the Duomo.
Hi, my name is Josh Kueh. I am from Fayetteville, Arkansas, where I study at the University of Arkansas. I am double majoring in supply chain management and information systems. I have a minor in data analytics. I chose to study in Barcelona because I love the cultural elements that it offers!
It’s dark and raining. The stars are blocked by the overcast and all I can hear is the never-ending “squish squish squish” that flows from my shoes as I step rapidly over the wet slanted cobblestones of Florence.” The illuminated sign welcomes me, and my addiction to indulge and enjoy the creamy deliciousness of its famous Italian treat. I’d be at the wooden door frame made of glass in a minute.
Around eleven years ago I got to visit Carcassone, France, a town and UNESCO World Heritage site that is famous for its medieval fortifications and castle. My family and I drove there from my grandparent’s house in Spain, and my parents let me run around the castle walls. I ran around pretending to be a knight defending the castle with fake swords and bows and arrows.
Why settle for surviving during your time abroad, when you can be thriving. Spending the past four months as a foreign exchange student has taught me a lot about myself. The journey has been one filled with smiles and laughs as well as tears and frustration. Life is all about balance and duality, figuring this out early is what has helped me make this time the best of my life.
When I first arrived in Siena, my host family kept mentioning something called contradas. Because of our language barrier, I was so confused as to what they were talking about. After walking around the city for a couple days, I quickly learned that contradas are like social clubs for districts of Siena dating back to the 13th century.
Hi! My name is Anya Pennisi. I’m a junior studying International Business with French and Digital Marketing at Appalachian State University. Coming abroad I wanted to get a full cultural immersion of the community I was studying in and I fully believe that learning more about a culture comes from all forms of experiences. I’m very thankful that SAI offered the opportunity to participate in a service project to teach students English.
Hi! My name is Isabella (Izzy) Young and I studied abroad in Rome, Italy for an academic year at John Cabot. I am from Nashville, Tennessee and attend the University of Knoxville and am majoring in International business with a minor in Italian. Studying abroad in Rome for an entire year has been one of the best decisions I have made for myself.
By far my favorite class this semester was Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage (SACH). It had us running all over Barcelona some days, and engagingly in the classroom other days. Our teacher would have us go to numerous museums and locations around Barcelona to show us what we had learned in class. The class was incredibly captivating and I felt I gained the most knowledge in that class.
As a study abroad student, I was lucky enough to take a tour of San Gimignano and visit the local thermal baths with a group of new friends. It was my first trip after arriving to study in Florence, and I was eager to explore Tuscany and immerse myself in the local culture. San Gimignano is a small hilltop town in Tuscany, recognized for its well-preserved medieval architecture and towers.
Interning at Il Vilaggio dei Popoli has inspired me in many different ways. I have gained new insight as to what fair trade is, why fair trade is so important to human rights, and the social and environmental impact that fair trade holds.
During my semester abroad I took advantage of pursuing my lifelong dreams of traveling all around Europe. My program was focused in Rome and I knew I wanted to pick a city that had a major airport nearby for the ease of traveling as well as its own history and beauty. Just to say the least, FCO airport and I got to know each other very well.
Hey! My name is Kavya and I was a part of SAI’s local friend program. The Local Friend program sets you up with another student from Barcelona and allows you to better immerse yourself in the culture and language. I signed up for the program because I was curious about Catalan traditions and lifestyles and wanted to make new friends while abroad.
As my semester here in Sorrento, Italy comes to an end I’ve come to realize that I love my quaint southern Italian city. Prior to coming over here I never even considered the size of the city I was going to live in for four months. All I knew was I wanted to study abroad somewhere in Europe, but I really didn’t care where that would be.
The Best Things Outside of the City Center! Florence is one of the most historical cities in the world. The amount of history, architecture, and art in this beautiful city is astonishing. The most famous attractions in Florence include the Uffizi gallery, the Accademia Gallery of Florence where you can see Michelangelo’s David, the Gucci Gardens, the Medici Palace, and of course, the Duomo.
My time in Barcelona and Europe was about connections. And coming here was one of the best decisions I’ve made. About me I’m a student at Parsons School of Design in New York majoring in Product design with a focus on furniture and home products. Since I was also determined to improve my Spanish, coming to Barcelona and ELISAVA was a no-brainer.
This past semester, I was grateful to have had the opportunity to volunteer at Il Villaggio Dei Popoli which is a non-profit cooperative that has been operating in the field of fair trade, ethical finance, and critical consumption since 1990.
TRAVEL TIPS – Travel Like a Florentine Trains Use the Trenitalia (government run) or Italo (Privately run) apps to look at train tickets! Super easy but make sure to book far in advance to avoid a steep increase in prices. Flights Fly like a local out of Pisa or Bologna! You’ll come to find that mostflights out of Florence tend to be very expensive/with layovers.
Sant Jordi is a highly celebrated and beloved cultural event in Catalonia, Spain. Taking place on April 23rd of each year, it holds significant historical and cultural importance. Sant Jordi is a vibrant festival that combines elements of literature, romance, and tradition, making it a truly unique and cherished occasion. At the heart of Sant Jordi lies the tradition of exchanging books and roses.
When coming to Milan, I wanted to make a goal of engaging myself in my community the best I could. I was able to find a great motive for this very goal by working towards obtaining the SAI International Service Certificate. By doing so, I was able to get in touch with a local service group to obtain my volunteer hours.
My name is Annabelle, I was studying in Barcelona at Elisava during this spring semester (2023). In Barcelona, I lived with three girls, two from the United States and one from Puerto Rico, in a two bedroom apartment. This felt comfortable and familiar which helped me to adjust to my new life in a foreign country. However, once I got settled I felt like something was missing.
Outdoor Areas in Florence The first week I got to Florence, I was surprised by the lack of greenery. The architecture is stunning in Florence, but after going to other cities, I realized I missed the small pockets of nature I am used to. Luckily, I was wrong! Florence is filled with green areas, and the city center just happens to focus on other beauties of the world.
Hi! My name is Allie McDermott, and I am currently a pre-med junior within the University of South Carolina’s Honors College. During the Spring 2023 semester, I studied abroad in Barcelona. Reflecting on my incredible journey throughout Europe, I remain especially grateful for SAI’s dedication to providing a plethora of experiential learning opportunities for us students.
Hi, my name is Bryan Bellantoni and I studied abroad in Barcelona in the Spring of 2023. I grew up in New Jersey and attend the University of South Carolina, majoring in Finance. While studying abroad in Barcelona, I had the opportunity to volunteer in an English class. The students, middle school aged, taught me more in the short three months than I could have ever taught them.
17 weeks. I spent 17 weeks here in Milan, Italy. In those 17 weeks, I was able to go and experience 17 other places within and outside of Italy. Before coming abroad, I didn’t think that was possible let alone I’d be the one doing it over the next four months. So how did I do it? On top of still being a student, volunteering at a local organization, and still having time to relax.
Hello! My name is Gabrielle Haring and I am just finishing up my junior year at Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti in Milan. These past four months have contributed to some of the best times and experiences of my life. I am forever grateful to experience and gain an appreciation for Italian life, culture and customs. This country is beautiful in so many ways and I never want to forget it.
Coming from Colorado studying Interior Design, I had no idea what to expect moving to Barcelona to do a semester at one of the top design schools in Barcelona. At Elisava I am enrolled in a design contexts class, and visual communications and motion graphics class, both of which are completely new subjects for me. As for interior design, I am taking an interior spaces class as well as a retail design class.
Studying abroad is an incredible experience that gives you opportunities to travel and interact with new cultures, but it is important to remember that you are still in school, and things like your grades can impact you upon returning home. The classes I took while abroad at John Cabot in Rome had very similar course loads and structures to classes I have previously taken at my home school.
For the Spring Semester, I decided to study abroad in Florence, Italy. I chose to study here for the arts, the culture, the pasta, and to learn more about myself. Don’t let the “This is your sign to study abroad” TikToks fool you. Studying abroad can be challenging. It’s a moment of firsts for everyone–it can be daunting.
Traveling to a new country across the world can be very rewarding and exciting, but it definitely does not come without its challenges. Once settled into your new home, it can be a daunting task venturing out to explore such an unknown environment. But as many of us know, the only way to meet new people and find your new favorite places is to go out and try new things!
Living in Florence, Italy has been a dream come true! The city is a treasure trove of wonders, from traditional Tuscan cuisine to Renaissance art and Italian culture. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to forget that as students, we’re here to study and further our education in this magnificent city. In this article, I’ll be sharing three study spots in Florence that are essential for any student living here. 1.
Studying abroad is an incredible experience, but that does not mean it will not come without its challenges. It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed by living in a new place, coursework, exam weeks, or anything else that life may bring. Here are three things you can do to de-stress when studying abroad in the wonderful city of Rome. 1. Go for a walk along River Tiber Right by Trastevere, River Tiber meanders through Rome.
Ceramists worldwide have undoubtedly had an immense impact on contemporary art. Significant figures like Beate Kuhn and George Ohr have made great strides in the global movement. However, these monumental names often obscure the achievements of artisans from regions beyond our borders that have contributed to the global campaign in their own right.
My name is Brooke Hornung and I am a junior at the University of Alabama studying abroad in Rome, Italy! While studying abroad in Rome, I was placed to live in the Trastevere neighborhood. It is a unique part of Rome with so much to do. Restaurants and shops of all kinds fill every street. It is always bustling with people. You truly could never get bored here!
For as long as I can remember I wanted to study abroad. I have always loved to travel with my family and explore new places and learn about new cultures. At the University of South Carolina, studying abroad is highly encouraged and very easy to do. At the time I wanted to study abroad, I was majoring in Management and Finance.
So you’re getting ready to study abroad. Question is, How can I take full advantage of my time in my new home away from home? Studying abroad can seem like a daunting experience at first, but with the right mindset and expectations you can set yourself up to thrive in your new environment. So you want to start off on the right foot and have a memorable first week abroad?
You’ve likely heard that studying abroad is the most incredible chance you’ll ever have. And it is, but truth is, it can be tough for some of us. Moving thousands of miles across the globe to a new nation, where you will be surrounded by new things and people, is a significant shift, and homesickness is unavoidable. Although it can bring you down it’s important to find ways to lift yourself back up.
I am currently about one month into my study abroad semester, and I genuinely can’t believe how fast time is going. Living in Barcelona has been such a refreshing, needed, and fun experience. Taking the metro every day to school, walking 5 miles every day, and having to air dry my clothes have all been so fun and different from my life in the US.
I got to do one of the coolest things I’ve ever done. Graffiti in Barcelona. I would have never thought that my Urban Interventions course through UAB would have me go out into the city and graffiti a wall. The class started as any other class would until my Professor Georginia gave us what she called a Black Book. It is what graffiti artists and writers call their sketchbooks.
During my time studying abroad, I got to travel to different countries. I went to Paris, Dublin, Vienna, and Greece, as well as other places in Italy. I have always enjoyed cooking and baking so going to places with different foods, I took the advantage of scheduling cooking classes. I took these classes to learn about another culture as well as spread my knowledge with my friends and family back home.
Studying abroad and living with complete strangers in a foreign country can sound intimidating, and trust me it is, but don’t let that fear hold you back. Personally, I’ve dreamed about studying abroad since I was a freshman in high school back in 2016. Here I am in 2023 living out that dream and making my younger self proud.
As a family-oriented girl now living 5,000 miles away from home for the next 4 months, homesickness was inevitable. I attempted to find comfort through journaling and FaceTiming friends and family. As these methods did help improve my mood, nothing made me feel better than finding my comfort foods in Italy. For this reason, I’m going to help you skip the research by providing 5 places to experience a taste of home while in Florence.
I can say that this volunteering opportunity has been the greatest learning experience that I could’ve gained as a student abroad. On the one hand, I was able to practice my Italian by teaching English to Italian children, and at the same time, I was able to fulfill one of the biggest objectives that I had coming to Florence: “immerse myself in Italian culture”.
– Emily In Paris Netflix’s original series by Darren Star called Emily in Paris is an American-French romantic comedy series. The series, which is set and filmed in Paris, stars Lily Collins as aspiring marketing professional Emily Cooper, an American who relocates to France in order to give Savoir, a French marketing business, an American perspective. – La Dolce Vita In the acclaimed Italian film by Federico Fellini, reporter Marcello Rubini (Marcello Mastroianni)
It seems like it was only yesterday that I was arriving in Italy, ready for the semester-long journey ahead of me. From traveling to Barcelona, Switzerland, Germany, France, Greece, United Kingdom, Croatia and Ireland, I can say that my study abroad experience has been the best thing I’ve ever done for myself.
One of the many great attributes of studying abroad in Europe is the multitude of options available for a weekend getaway. Whether you prefer to sunbathe along the coast of the Mediterranean or hike to the best look-out point of the city, traveling to a new place can be an easy and affordable excursion to plan. My record of places I’ve visited outside of Barcelona so far consist of Costa Brava, Munich, Paris, and Cadaqués.
Ciao! My name is Chiara, and I am studying in Florence, Italy. I am from California where I attend Point Loma Nazarene University. I chose Florence because I wanted to live in a smaller city and experience the Northern Italian culture that is different from my culture roots, Southern Italy. I have been living in Florence for two months and my Italian experience has been more than I could have expected.
From falling asleep on the beach in Malibu, gazing out at the Empire State building from the Top of the Rock, watching the sunset from the mountains of Max Patch, swimming in the hot springs of Costa Rica, to riding ATVs in Cabo San Lucas, this insatiable wanderlust only continues to burn inside of me. Deciding to study abroad should have been an easy decision.
At first glance, Florence looks to be a heavily populated area full of ancient buildings, majestic artwork, and historic landmarks. However, on further inspection, there is so much more to this beautiful city. As a student studying abroad, I have had the amazing opportunity to take classes where I can explore the city on a closer level. My instructors have provided me with an in-depth history and explanation of buildings, statues, and local attractions.
Before coming to Rome to study abroad, I was honestly scared to make this change in my life. Most people would agree that change is uncomfortable and scary. But if there is anything that I have learned from my experience thus far, it is that this uncomfortable change is necessary for growth.
When my best friend and I were creating our respective study abroad plans for Fall ’22, we joked about going early. I would always say we should just head to Europe immediately, although I knew that wasn’t possible. We were just so excited to study abroad. After joking about it a few dozen times, we began to consider the possibility. After some preliminary research, it actually seemed possible.
You are tired, you just got off a long flight, and all you want to do is sleep for hours. The last thing you want to do is walk around a new city without knowing where to go or what to do, so use these 5 tips to make your first two weeks in your new city a breeze!
My time in Florence was nowhere near what I imagined it would be like. I went into the experience with this idea: I would be taking a couple classes to broaden my knowledge of art history as well as learning new drawing techniques. The program would include a few mandatory activities and I would be fed two free meals a day.
Looking back at these photos now, I’m still in awe of all that Spain has. I feel so privileged to have been able to study here, and I’m so glad I chose Barcelona!! While in Barcelona, I also got to visit Madrid… and London, England…. and Milan, Italy Europe was absolutely incredible!!
When traveling to a new place, adjusting to a new lifestyle may be difficult. As different cultures structure their days differently, it is vital to be prepared for an altered routine. People in various countries differ in the time they work, the time they eat meals, the way they dress (according to fashion trends/weather), and the standard modes of transportation they utilize.
Restaurants: Dining at a café or restaurant in Paris is a very different experience from food service in the United States. The culture around dining moves much more slowly, so make sure to give yourself at least an hour and a half if you plan to go to a restaurant.
Florence can be a daunting place upon a tourist’s first arrival. I was definitely overwhelmed by the seemingly never-ending green shutters rushing past my taxi windows between the airport and my apartment nestled on the corner of Borgo Pinti. The streets are lined on either side with towering buildings, making each cobblestone walkway look like the next, so much so that it is easy to get lost in the tangle of alleyways and winding roads.
Hi! My name is Anya Carney and I am a current student studying abroad at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona through SAI. I have gotten involved in as many activities and programs as I could through SAI and my favorite by far has been the International Service Certificate. Through this program, I teach 2nd graders English at a local primary school here in Barcelona.
Studying abroad in Europe is an extremely unique opportunity. Whether you are based in France, Italy, Spain, or another European country, there are endless sights to see and places to explore in your local area. That being said, I would definitely recommend traveling to other countries as well, as each place has something new to offer.
We sat down for a virtual interview with Anya Carney, a SAI Spring 2022 student studying in Barcelona at the University Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB), to tell us all about her experience abroad: My name is Anya Carney, and I’m from Charleston, SC. I go to the University of South Carolina, and I’m an Economics and Management double major.
1. Learn about their public transportation system. Each city has its own unique public transportation system. You are likely going to experience some form of a metro or “underground” and buses, trains, or trams. My first suggestion is to get the apple maps app. After this, I would google taxi apps for your city and also google if there are any “city planner” or public transportation planner apps.
After graduating high school I was geared up and ready for what my college life would look like. I had no idea what to expect but I knew for one thing, I wanted to study abroad. Even during my competitive scholarship interviews, I told them that the one thing I definitely wanted to do was go abroad for part of my education.
Studying abroad can be incredibly daunting. You’re leaving behind everything you’re familiar with, friends, family, professors, and traveling to a brand new country with a brand new apartment and most importantly, brand new roommates that you’ve probably never met. But getting to know your new housemates is one of the easiest ways to create connections as soon as you arrive in your new home.
As someone who is chronically indecisive, I never could have imagined I would willingly sign up for a semester abroad. While studying abroad is very enticing, it requires a multitude of decisions on a daily basis which, as I mentioned, is not my strong suit. However, my love for travel and my yearning to immerse myself in a culture entirely different from my own ultimately eclipsed my struggle with indecision.
Whenever someone is visiting, or maybe living in a new place, the first item on the agenda is to see the wonders that the city has to offer. This is what makes up a tourist area. The plazas are cleaned up, showing their best side. Myths and legends tell their tales, gathering the attention of those who will listen. Stalls are set up at every corner of the street, gaining a little more income.
TRAVELING OUTSIDE OF YOUR HOST COUNTRY: When traveling during covid it is a lot harder to plan. Every country has different covid restrictions upon entry and some “must-sees” in your desired city might be temporarily closed. My advice is to make a list of all of the cities outside of the country that you would ideally like to visit while you’re abroad.
My first experience abroad EVER and in Italy was through my pre-semester traveling course: Cultural Introduction to Italy. We began in Rome and worked our way towards Florence, stopping every day in different Italian towns with a full day of field learning. It was a jump into the deep end if I’ve ever heard of one, but I would not change it for the world.
My relationship with my heritage is unique. I have always felt funny about telling people that I’m French-American. As silly as it sounds, I have never felt entitled to say so. I wasn’t raised in a bicultural household, although I am the product of two people from very different backgrounds; my mother was born in Queens, New York, and my father hailed from Paris, France.
Just as there is much to do within Rome, there is much more to do outside of Rome. Take a few days to venture out and explore all of the other beautiful and fascinating places Italy has to offer. Monti Monti is a nearby suburb. By simply hopping on the bus, metro, or tram you will quickly arrive in Monti from Rome. In Monti, you will find lots of restaurants, gelaterias, but mostly thrift shops!
Living in Italy has been a dream, but I won’t lie and tell you that I have been caught off guard or confused by a number of things. While at first something was a bit difficult and frustrating, I have now learned to love and appreciate the customs behind them. Rome is a city full of culture and tradition, and I am just grateful to be able to experience it.
A cheese plate is a customary part of a meal at a restaurant in Paris, in between the main course and dessert. The main course isn’t referred to as the entrée; instead, the word entrée actually refers to the appetizer eaten beforehand. The waiter/waitress doesn’t come by with the check unless you request it. In fact, it is considered rude to bring the check to your table before you are ready to leave.
As someone who heavily relied on driving to get around in the United States, I was not prepared for the differences Italy would bring. I was not prepared for the walking. For the first month or so, I walked to every class, averaging around 6 miles a day. Although it was great for exercise, I can be a bit lazy. (However, since arrival, I’ve walked almost 400 miles, and I still have a month left!)
This may come as a huge surprise, but not all Europeans love tourists. Luckily in my experience about 95% of the locals I have interacted with while traveling have been not only helpful but very patient with my unilingualism.
Studying abroad is an experience like no other for many reasons; complete immersion in a foreign city, learning a new language, befriending people you would never have crossed paths with otherwise, traveling with ease to neighboring countries, and my personal favorite: the food. Europe is filled to the brim with dozens of cultures, all with rich histories wrapped up in one continent.
We caught up with Lauren Taylor, SAI Florence student at Florence University of the Arts in Fall 2021, and asked her to tell us a bit about her experience. She is completing a SAI Global Leadership Certificate (GLC) as part of her semester abroad, which includes a volunteering component. We wanted to know how the volunteering component of the GLC has been going, and gather some insights that could help future students considering volunteering abroad.
It is impossible to spend a day here and not fall in love with the values and philosophies that form the core of life in Italy. The buildings, the food, the clothes, and the pets all serve a purpose. The pursuit of timeless beauty, above all, dictates everyone’s day-to-day activities. People don’t just do their chores, they do their chores with style.
Oh, Italy. The land of pizza, pasta, and all things gluten. This should be such a lovely experience for all food lovers, however, there is just one issue. I have Celiac Disease. I know what you may be thinking, “Why on Earth would you study abroad in Italy!” The thing is… they are actually quite accommodating.
Trenedy enrolled in the FUA pre-semester traveling course: Cultural Introduction to Italy. This one week 3 credit traveling course, taken prior to regular program coursework, provides students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and broadens their awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in Italian customs and lifestyles. The field learning course pairs lectures with visits to many cultural sites and food tastings.
I think most people studying abroad are at an age that makes it pretty hard to give life advice, so I’ll go ahead and just give my two cents and you can do with that what you will. I’ve never been a big planner. Before coming to Florence, I would constantly have people asking me if I had a list of places I wanted to go once I started my study abroad experience.
I have only been in Rome for three weeks, yet every day I experience lifetimes. Centuries of history emerge around me as I simply walk to class, to the train station, to a café.
1. People walking their dogs on the street without a leash. The dog somehow knows to follow their owner. At first, it’s alarming to see a seemingly stray dog all by itself; then you realize their owner is farther up the road. 2. Fuel pumps on the side of the road for people to put gas in their car.
Engaging in an international internship allows students to deepen their interaction with the host city’s culture, develop relationships beyond the classroom, enhance their professional networks and build their resumes. By participating in an internship abroad, students set themselves apart from their peers with a demonstrated ability to work across cultures. SAI staff works with students and their home universities to arrange internship placement based on their academic major, interests, career goals, knowledge, and skills.
I walked into my first day as an intern greeted by 10 select Europeans who had decided to dedicate 10 months of their time to volunteer for the Marine Protected Area of Punta Campanella. Prior to even engaging in conversation, I was quite blown away by the sense of selflessness this special group had, giving this big chunk of their time to such a cause.
Each semester, SAI carefully selects a group of student bloggers. These students are to write about their experiences abroad by producing blogs and contributing to our social media. Below is the list of our Fall 2021 student bloggers. You can check out their blog posts throughout their time abroad.
Studying abroad is a rewarding experience for so many reasons and there are a million and one things to be excited about. However, the days leading up to the flight and the first few days in a new country can be scary and are quite the adjustment. I just made it through my first week in Siena, Italy and I want to share with you some tips and tricks for adjusting!
With a little over three weeks left in my summer term, my experience here in Sorrento has been nothing short of life-changing. Through this experience, I have gained knowledge and friends that will last me for a lifetime and still have many more memories to make in the coming weeks ahead.
Some might ask why would you choose to study abroad during a pandemic, is it worth it? Why didn’t you wait a semester or year? All of these questions roamed my head before making my final decision about studying abroad. I have now been in Florence for 53 days and looking back I would not have changed a thing.
Ciao, it is Rachael! Today, I wanted to share some amazing opportunities I have had in my home city these last two months. The Florence SAI team has put together unique and fun activities for the students to take advantage of while studying here. Before I even landed in even knew I was studying in Florence, I always told myself that I would love to learn how to make handmade pasta.
Pre-departure Where should I even begin? I started dreaming of the time I could potentially study abroad, long before I could even drive a car. Now as I sit at home, surrounded by family, friends, and my dogs, I quickly realize my dream from long ago is right around the corner.
Growing up in an Italian household I always dreamed to go to Italy. In 2018 my parents made it possible for my family to visit on vacation and I fell in love. I knew after that I had to go back. Studying abroad with SAI is not only allowing me to explore Italy again but giving me the chance to live immersed in the culture for the semester.
Studying abroad is an exciting time packed with many adventures and traveling. In my first month in Italy, I could not sit still. I was either traveling, exploring my city, or planning future travel plans. It felt like I was constantly going at 100 miles an hour because I was so obsessed with taking advantage of living in a new country and having the freedom to catch cheap flights all over Europe on the weekends.
The days and weeks leading up to my Florentine experience felt like a daydream. I had been looking forward to this experience for the past years to come and excited to push myself out of my comfort zones. Florence truly was all I could have asked for and more. The moment I had arrived in Florence, I was truly starstruck.
The week leading up to the devastating news was kind of a blur. Every day we were being told schools were going home and it didn’t actually hit until our friends began to be sent home. At this point majority of the schools had sent the email saying their students needed to come home. I knew it was coming but when I actually got the email it was devastating.
Like most people around the world, study abroad students were blindsided by the new normal brought on by Coronavirus. With the need to return home, our experiences were cut short with no warning. However, we were given something that no other study abroad students had received before—time to reflect on our experiences in our host cities.
The photo I have submitted for the Student Resilience Challenge is a drawing of some of my favorite people I met while studying abroad. Each portrait is based on a picture of the person sitting on the bank of the Arno on one of my most cherished days in Florence.
We asked our Spring 2020 bloggers to reflect on their experience with the global COVID-19 outbreak while they were abroad. After the chaos that was returning home, (arranging flights, packing-up, transitioning to online learning,) I took some time to start reflecting on the virus as a whole.
We asked our Spring 2020 bloggers to reflect on their experience with the global COVID-19 outbreak while they were abroad. Although the situation of studying abroad in Florence did not go as planned, there are many aspects of my trip that I can learn from and value for the rest of my life.
We asked our Spring 2020 bloggers to reflect on their experience with the global COVID-19 outbreak while they were abroad. As someone who likes to research and plan just about everything I can, you can imagine my surprise when my semester abroad didn’t in any way go as I anticipated.
We asked our Spring 2020 bloggers to reflect on their experience with the global COVID-19 outbreak while they were abroad. I’m just going to say it…my study abroad experience was nothing like I expected. I’m sure every study abroad student has said some iteration of this upon returning home, but this semester was different. The first month was a whirlwind of new people, new foods, and new places.
We asked our Spring 2020 bloggers to reflect on their experience with the global COVID-19 outbreak while they were abroad. I’m a control freak by nature. I’m most comfortable when I am able to exercise control over my surroundings, which means that I plan. And plan. Excessively. The label seems to invoke negative feelings from the vast majority, but I have come to view it as a double-edged sword.
We asked our Spring 2020 bloggers to reflect on their experience with the global COVID-19 outbreak while they were abroad. When I first came to Rome I was full of excitement for the new journey I was about to start. I never thought my journey will end so soon, and how I will learn so much in such little time.
We asked our Spring 2020 bloggers to reflect on their experience with the global COVID-19 outbreak while they were abroad. My time in Florence was unmatched. Unfortunately, I was only able to stay in Europe for around 40 days but I cherished every second of it. I was very excited because it was my first time leaving the country, and I am sad it had to end.
Nineteen years of living in the same place has left me feeling rather claustrophobic. While I love my hometown, there is little to no diversity of thought, culture, and background. And sometimes, I can’t help feeling as if I have been living in a box for the last nineteen years–forced to conform to the ideals of other people.
When choosing to study abroad, the options seemed endless. I went to a study abroad fair at my university and it seemed like there were countless program I could study abroad with, I thought I would never be able to decide which program would be best for me. After doing much research, I decided to go to Florence, Italy with SAI.
I’ll be the first to admit it – I’m restless. Nothing is ever quite enough to keep my attention for too long. Don’t get me wrong – I’ve been beautiful places that I’ve loved wholeheartedly. But after a short while, I’m craving something new. I can always go back – but there is still so much I haven’t seen. Going abroad is something I’ve dreamed about for a long time.
When researching the location I should study, I read and heard from past study abroad students that Florence is the place to go to have a true life-altering study abroad experience. I wanted to expand my knowledge on art and culture, and I thought Florence would be the perfect place for that.
To be honest, I was dreading writing this post – how could I possibly have a reflection about my time in Florence if I’ve barely unpacked? But as I began to reflect on my short time here, I realize that Florence has already begun to make an impact on me. I go to my state university, only about an hour and a half from where I have lived my entire life.
I decided to study abroad with SAI because they offered many excursions and Florence seemed like a beautiful, wonderful city to study abroad in. Overall, I wasn’t very nervous about anything, besides the language barrier and being so far away from home. I have never learned the Italian language, so it will be all new to me.
Less than a week ago, I hugged my parents, friends, and family goodbye and set off on my own adventure. I have always been independent, but never like this. I got through security, my plane had free movies, and the nine-hour flight seemed to fly by. That is until I set foot in the Paris airport for my layover.
I always knew I wanted to study abroad from the moment I began college. Study abroad was an adventure I knew I wanted to experience during my time in college, as I thought it was an experience and a different approach in my education that could further my knowledge in design.
Mental and physical health should be a priority wherever you are. It can be beyond easy to lose sight of your overall health when you are living out your dream in a foreign country. Take it from someone who has been living in Paris for months, ensuring you are in good health is essential to having a successful semester abroad.
For as long as I can remember I have been waiting to travel the world. Before coming to Florence I had never been to another continent and felt as though I was greatly lacking cultural diversity and experience. From the moment I got to the airport, I was overcome with excitement to begin this next chapter in my life.
Each semester, SAI carefully selects a group of student bloggers. These students are to write about their experiences abroad by producing blogs and contributing to our social media. Below is the list of our Spring 2020 student bloggers. You can check out their blog posts throughout their time abroad.
I am a musician with a bachelor’s degree in voice, so I always have to update two different resumés: My artistic resumé and my work experience resumé. My life would be a lot easier if I only needed one resumé, but I am pretty sure a restaurant manager is not going to care that I played Doralee Rhodes in a production of 9 to 5 when I was a freshman in college.
Before coming to Paris, my biggest anxiety wasn’t the language barrier I’d surely encounter with my mediocre french-speaking skills nor was it the fact that I was moving 6,000 miles away from my family and friends at my home university. Rather, my biggest apprehension surrounded my relationship– fearful that studying abroad and moving away from my partner inevitably meant breaking up.
Last weekend I took a trip to Fes, Morocco. I had been looking forward to taking a weekend trip to Morocco since I arrived in Spain. Morocco is so close and I had always drawn inspiration from the ornate patterns in Moroccan design which are so full of color and texture. My excitement stemmed from the fact that I would be seeing something that I recognized on a screen firsthand.
Florence is one of the oldest and most incredible cities in Italy and every street is filled with history and beauty. Whether it’s a hike up out of the valley of Florence, a view from the most important cathedral in Florence, or a view from your local palace, Florence has the most incredible places to take in the beauty of the city.
I was fortunate enough to have been housed in an apartment near the Duomo and all of my classes during my semester in Florence, Italy. On rainy mornings I am grateful to be so close to my destinations! However, this convenience also allows me to get lazy. When so many food options and shops are so close to my apartment, why should I bother venturing out of my neighborhood?
The Colosseum is one of the most well-known attractions in the world. It was built back in 72-80 A.D. by multiple emperors of the Ancient Roman Empire. The Colosseum was home to gladiatorial fights, reenactments of famous battles, and dramas of classical mythology. The massive oval-shaped amphitheatre could hold up to 70,000 people in it for its entertainment purposes.
The minute I decided to study abroad in the world’s fashion capital was the minute I started to stress about packing! It seems overwhelming to pack for four solid months, but now that I’ve been here for two I feel like I have a much clearer idea on what is useful and what is a waste of precious space! First of all, DON’T pack heels!
“You’re only young once.” “You’ll never be here again exactly as you are!” “Would you rather look back on this night as one with a wild memory or one with a lot sleep?” I’m sure you’ve heard a friend or a stranger, or even your own inner monologue, tell you these words as you uncertainly decide your next move during a weekend trip or your fall break.
Coming to Sorrento, I was not sure of the places I would want to travel to, but the idea of going to a different country every weekend excited me. I was surprised to find out the first week I was in Sorrento of all the trips that could be taken by bus, train, or ferry for a minimal price and travel time.
While only being here a few weeks I have come to learn quickly about tourist spots in Milan. The most famous and fabulous by far is the Duomo. It is a large cathedral in the city center surrounded with many things to do at all times of the day. Whether its shopping, eating, getting that perfect Instagram picture, or simply enjoying the view I am sure you will find something you enjoy.
I arrived in Rome, Italy back on August 27th for my semester studying abroad. I have never been to Europe before, so it is easy to imagine the nervousness that was built up in me. The first thing that came to my mind was how would my apartment be with some roommates I have never met before. Our apartment is about a 20-25 minute walk from John Cabot University.
I have been living in Barcelona, Spain for a week now. Honestly, it feels as though I’ve been here for months. Arriving in a new country for the first time can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you know you’ll be staying in this new country for an extended stay. Here are some tips for the first few days acclimating in a new country: Drink lots of fluids and get some rest!
A little over two weeks ago, I packed my bags, left my home, family, and friends to embark on the journey of a lifetime. I had no idea what to expect but I have always known that I wanted to study abroad. From the moment I stepped off the plane when we landed in Florence, I knew I was going to love it here. I won’t lie and say that I wasn’t nervous.
On the day that I was supposed to have my flight to Barcelona, I had a six-hour delay due to a storm in New York. I was having extreme anxiety because of the delay and was afraid about what I should do since I am all by myself. Well, once I actually got on the plane, everything went well and I arrived in Barcelona safely with the help of Leticia, my SAI coordinator.
Having been studying in Siena, Italy for not quite two weeks, I am certainly no expert on the local area. That being said, even after a few hours in this city, it is easy to tell that it is a place full of magical views; of the city, of the countryside, of the history of this region.
If you’re anything like me, you are going to try a lot of gelato during your time in Italy. I mean a lot. Or in my roommate’s case, sometimes even three times a day. With a different gelato shop on every corner, how could you not? It is simply too tempting to pull out a couple euros and buy a small snack-sized gelato for your walk home during the warmer days in Florence.
“Abroad changed me.” A phrase that college students whine in good-natured mockery to tease their peers who studied in a foreign country for a semester and who return proclaiming the identity-altering, transformative effects of their experience. It’s been three weeks since I left the U.S. to come to Florence, Italy.
Before coming to Barcelona for the semester I had envisioned the city as an ever-sunny haven. I had spent several days in Barcelona during August a few years before and thought that the weather would be the same as it had been on those summer days: warm and bright. My roommates had a similar image in their heads.
1. Plan your weekend trips as soon as possible. Before arriving in Florence, have a list of places that you want to go to. This will make it so much easier and less stressful to book trips if you have already picked out where you want to visit. If you are studying in the fall, take advantage of the warm weather while it lasts and go to the beach!
I’m sitting on the outdoor terrace of my 5th floor Parisian apartment overlooking the locals flow in and out of the Volontaires metro station entrance, an older woman hanging up fresh white-linen sheets over her balcony, a couple cuddling close together sipping their noisettes at the local boulangerie, and children playing in the courtyard of the daycare nextdoor.
Abruzzo is a very mountainous region about 3 hours drive from Rome. There were many small towns and villages along the way. It was refreshing to be in the peace and quiet of the small mountainous town of Pacentro on the first day. Compared to Rome where you hear sirens and cars and a bunch of other sounds, it was almost like a ghost town here.
There has always been something intriguing to me about Europe, especially Italy, so when I found SAI’s Florence program, I was over the moon. Even waking up at 4 a.m. to head to the airport the morning of departure couldn’t kill my buzz. This was the first time I was traveling out of the country and I knew before I got here that I would love every second of my time here.
I’ve been in Rome for nearly three weeks, and so far, they have been some of the best weeks of my life! I’m still pinching myself that I’m really here for the semester. In the weeks leading up to my flight to Italy, I was so nervous and trying to soak up every bit of information I could find.
While only being in Rome for a few weeks now, I already feel like a local. Although, I love exploring new places and traveling elsewhere on the weekends, as I did with SAI this past weekend. Exploring Abruzzo was even more exciting and relaxing than I could have expected. The first day we embarked on our journey and arrived at Pacentro, where we walked around the town square and visited the Caldora Castle.
Your first week studying abroad in a new country will look a little something like this: you hop off the plane exhausted but the adrenaline of it finally being the day you arrive in your host country keeps you going. You meet so many different people the first couple of days that you can only remember the names of your new roommates.
I’ll be honest, when I first started thinking about how I was going to pack for a summer in Italy in one suitcase, I was intimidated. I was afraid of packing too much and then I was afraid of packing not enough. Now, halfway through my study abroad in Sorrento, I have a pretty good idea of what would have been the perfect way to pack my suitcase.
Ciao!! Today was the first day of classes for students! I am taking a 9am class called ‘Health and Wellness in the Mediterranean’ which alternates different physical activities with food and wine tasting, how could I go wrong with this one?! After covering basic syllabus material, our professor took us to an Italian market. She showed us which fruits were in season in Italy (apricots and figs)
Spring has finally arrived in Florence. On a sunny day, you can venture into the city’s enchanting gardens that sit on the other side of the Arno river. The Bardini and Boboli gardens are not only a short walk from one another, but they are also the perfect place to bring friends or family that are visiting. Be prepared to witness breathtaking views (better than Piazzale Michelangelo, I may add)
Food plays a heavy role in the Spanish culture in Catalonia. An important part of absorbing yourself into the culture is getting to know the local specialties. With the Catalan culture, there are plenty of different specialties to offer. Below I have listed eight of my personal favorite foods that I think everyone should try. Patatas Bravas These fried potatoes with a spicy sauce and creamy aioli are one of my favorite foods in Barcelona.
For a weekend in early March, I went on an SAI excursion included in my SAI study abroad program. The location—Nice, in the South of France—was a wonderful change from the relatively gloomy and chilly Paris at this time of year! Since the hotel, meals, and a few activities were included, it was also a great break from necessary budgeting while studying abroad.
¡Hola! My name is Toyin Jackson, I’m a sophomore at Mizzou, and I am currently participating in a study abroad program in Barcelona, Spain. Last week, I started attending CETT – Campus de Turisme, Hoteleria, y Gastronomia (Campus of Tourism, Hospitality, and Gastronomy). The school is affiliated with the University of Barcelona. This semester, I am participating in the their gastronomy program studying a curriculum surrounding food and culture in the Mediterranean.
“Firsts are best because they are beginnings.” – Jenny Han When it comes to preparing for the first few days abroad, jetlag and culture shock often demand most of our attention.
During my study abroad trip to Milan, I realized I had a Sunday completely free. On a spontaneous inclination, I booked a tour to the legendary city of Venice. Although the tour began at seven in the morning, I enjoyed the bus ride through the rolling Italian hills, home to wineries and historic buildings. As we approached Venice, it was obvious why so many tourist are attracted to this gorgeous area.
When I submitted my application to Colorado State University, I was unsure. Any uncertainty, you name it, I had it. Deciding to study abroad in Florence, Italy was no different. I was extremely unsure. Yes it sounds amazing—spoiler alert: it is, but I was worried about everything under the sun.
Capturing images of well visited travel sites around Europe can seem repetitive and lack creativity very quickly. To learn how to capture unique travel photos that don’t match everyone else’s Instagram feed, I have come up with a few simple tips. 1.
In a city like Milan, home to fashion houses such as Armani and Prada, it is very important to look the part; especially for a Fashion Merchandising major like me. In the fashion capital of the world, the natives have an upscale sense of style and sophistication. The people of Milan are little to never seen wearing common American comforts such as leggings, athletic wear, or even jean shorts.
As a college student, I love saving money. Studying abroad does not make it easy to save money because of all the traveling opportunities and activities within your city. However, among the many cities and countries to travel to, restaurants to eat, and stores and shopping centers to go to, there are fun and exciting things to do for free!
Florence is a bustling city in the heart of Tuscany. Alive with visitors and locals alike, there is never a dull moment along its medieval streets. Around every corner there is something to be seen, from street art to all the little details that give Florence its identity. Below are some snapshots of daily sightings that I encounter every day as I navigate through the city on my way to and from class.
Each semester, SAI carefully selects a group of student bloggers. These students are to write about their experiences abroad by producing blogs and contributing to our social media. Below is the list of our Summer 2019 student bloggers. You can check out their blog posts throughout their time abroad. Marie Herzing, Florence Home school: University of Kentucky 1. I am going to be a senior at the university of Kentucky 2.
Paris is in a great location for weekend trips or even day trip to other areas of France. Flights on budget airlines such as Easyjet or Ryanair can you around Europe for a cheap price. The key to finding these budget friendly options is booking in advance and not waiting until the last minute. The TGV is another great option for traveling throughout France or to neighboring countries.
It’s hard to believe it has been over seventy days since I left everything and everyone I know for the adventure of a lifetime. It’s been a whirlwind from the start. I’ve had good days and bad days, just as I’ve had good food, and not so great food—at least to me. However, it is extremely difficult to find food you won’t like.
For spring break my roommates and I decided that we needed to travel to a destination full of nothing but, peace, quiet, and the beach; so to Nice, France we embarked. Our expectations for the week were surpassed, for never have I been to a place that soothed my soul in such a way. The vibe of relaxation was apparent from the start, when we boarded our flight to Nice from Rome.
So you’re abroad, and if you’re anything like me or other kindred spirits that flock to Europe for a semester, you want to see and do as much as you can. You have bucket lists to follow, goals to meet, and oh so little time! I get it. But if you’re anything like me–a planner, a like-to-knower, a maximizer–perhaps the whole abstract idea of “travel” can actually seem a bit daunting.
Having visited much of Italy previously, I had some idea what to expect on my long weekend trip to Milan. Still, Milan managed to surprise me. 1. The way people dress may surprise you Like Paris, my host city, Milan has a reputation has a high-fashion capitol. However, also like Paris, this is not necessarily evident in the looks you will see on the street.
Barcelona is truly one of the most unbelievable cities in the world. Before I decided to study abroad in Barcelona, Spain, I knew very little about how much the city itself has so much to offer. As I have learned, the city itself offers a wide range of views from beaches to mountains to infamous churches to beautiful architecture.
Living in a homestay abroad is the best way to experience cultural and linguistic nuances and to cultivate intimate friendships with the natives of the city! As an Italian minor, I knew I wanted to live in a homestay to practice Italian. However, I also wanted to feel connected with the people of Florence. I live in the city center of Florence, Italy about a ten minute walk from the Duomo.
“Two households, both alike in dignity, In fair Verona, where we lay our scene, From ancient grudge break to new mutiny, Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean. From forth the fatal loins of these two foes, A pair of star-cross’d lovers take their life. . .”, William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet. Looking to spend the most romantic weekend of the year in the perfect location? Well, then Verona is the place to go.
I was very excited to take my first ever fashion design class as my major at school is more business geared and less creative design. I chose to take the Leather Technology class at FUA and it was by far one of the best decisions I have made.
One of my favorite excursions while studying abroad in Florence, Italy, has been exploring the historic, well-preserved medieval towns in Tuscany. It’s easy to get into the groove of using the weekends to travel outside the Florence area, but I encourage you to visit the enchanting towns that sit between the Tuscan hills and wide-spread vineyards. On my SAI excursion last weekend (the trip is included with SAI, so there are no extra costs)
Lessons Learned: Avoid making mistakes that can cost you time and money while traveling: 1.) Always check to see where your hostel is located While booking a place to stay in Amsterdam, my friends and I found somewhere that was pretty cheap and what we thought was right near downtown Amsterdam, so of course, we booked it right on the spot. After we paid (and chose the non-refundable option to save €3)
I have been living in Florence for a little over a week now. The whole time I have been here I have felt a rollercoaster of emotions; excitement, confusion, curiosity, and homesickness. All of these feelings are natural when moving to a new country and there is no advice I can tell you to avoid them.
I have always been a homebody. I make a place for myself, and I become content staying in my zone for every activity. In order to gain personal growth, I thought it was time to do the complete opposite of my norm. I signed up to study abroad through SAI, and to live in Florence, Italy for a semester.
1. Come Prepared One of the biggest pieces of advice I can give is to come prepared. Make sure you call your bank as soon as you know you’re studying abroad and order euros! This is typically the most affordable way to change currency. The most expensive way is in the airport through a currency exchange office, but it’s also really convenient.
You have arrived in your host city and are ready to plan some weekend travel; now what? Use these guidelines to experience trips you will never want to end! One of the most important parts of planning a trip, outside of booking a flight or a train ride, is finding a place to stay. Plenty of people immediately count out hostels as an option, but there are some important factors to consider.
Hello, Dear Reader. I understand you have come here for quality study abroad content. I am sure you have envisioned reading the grand tales of students exploring unfamiliar locations and experiencing unique cultures alien to your own. Well, Dear Reader you can look no further. Settle down and prepare your heart, for this tale you have stumbled across, this analysis of the Italian ecosystem is EXACTLY what you have been looking for.
Ciao! I’m Sarah Hadley, and I go to the University of Alabama, but I’m currently studying abroad in Florence, Italy at Florence University of the Arts. While I can’t wait to share my experiences in Florence so far, I feel like it’s so important to share why I chose to study abroad. For the past five months, I have had the somewhat monotonous (yet completely understandable)
If I had to sum up the last 10 days in one word it would be this: unconventional. You may perhaps deem it odd for me to describe the cradle of the Renaissance with such a word whose synonym is unusual, irregular, and uncustomary. Let me explain. I find myself sitting in the Oblate Cafeteria when my favorite song of all time starts playing in my earbuds.
Passport, Visa, ID, Credit Cards and other miscellaneous (but extremely important) documents? CHECK. Now it’s a matter of getting from Point A to Point B. To survive life in a brand-new country, you must learn to walk before you can run. That means surviving the first week before worrying about the next few months.
The number of museums in Paris that pop up after doing a simple Google search can be overwhelming. Luckily as a student studying abroad I have ample time to see many of these museums, from the must see to the lesser known. The most infamous and popular museum in Paris, and perhaps the world, is the Louvre. The key to successfully and enjoyably visiting this extensive museum is going when tourists are low in numbers.
My roommates and I were lucky enough to be able to call the “local” side of Florence our home for the semester. As everyone described it to us, it was a little less touristy and more peaceful which can be a nice break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Florence. Walking back to a quiet neighborhood each day after class has truly been a blessing and I want more people to experience it.
If I were to describe myself, “foodie” would certainly be at the top of the list. I really enjoy good food. Growing up, my parents instilled in me a passion for cooking quality homemade meals and indulging in fine dining. My mom’s life motto which has resonated with me is, “While many people will eat to live, I live to eat.
I followed directions from a lot of strangers, got in a van, and was dropped off with a key from the 1800’s. So, the adventure started with me boarding a flight from Minneapolis to Atlanta and then on to Rome. All my flights went really well! My final flight was actually filled with students all going to Rome for the semester.
My name is Peter and I am currently completing an internship position at MedinAction. I secured this position through a connection via John Cabot University’s Center for Career Services. MedinAction is an on-demand, English-speaking medical service that delivers a qualified doctor to your home, office, or hotel. The service is available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. You can book your licensed physician online, by phone, or the app.
Upon first exploring Rome, I was very much a tourist with tunnel vision, having only a few key things I knew I “had” to see. Thankfully, time went by and I broadened my perspective, which taught me to look at the Eternal City from afar.
These past few weeks have been a total blur. Final papers, exams, and preparing to leave Florence after an incredible semester certainly got the best of me sometimes. However, I walked around in absolute wonder the entire time because of the incredible holiday displays around the city. How could you not smile with such beauty and cheer surrounding you? Here are some photos of the Firenze festivity this holiday season. Happiness to you and yours!
Rome is known as the eternal city and for all the right reasons. It has some of the most amazingly preserved ruins around the world. It seems that along every street is another ruin. There’s so much to explore in Rome, I’m not sure if there’s ever truly a way to see it all.
Montmartre is arguably one of my favorite places in Paris. It’s almost like you’re not even in the city– it’s just that different from the rest of Paris. So whether you are catching a show at the Moulin Rouge, or making your way to Sacre Coeur, take a moment to stop and see everything in between. YOU ARE HERE! So there are many places to start your walk through Montmartre.
It’s about that time! I know that my last few posts have kind of felt like some sort of countdown to the end of the semester, and I guess in some way, that’s right. I liked keeping a good awareness of how much time I had left in Italy, just to make sure that I wasn’t letting the time slip me by.
This is a list of some of my favorite spots in Sorrento and near Sorrento on the peninsula. Piazza della Vittoria – Since my first day in Sorrento this has been one of my favorite spots. This Piazza has, in my opinion, the best view in all of Sorrento: the entire bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius. The best part is that I pass through it every day on my way to class.
Siena, a lesser-known Italian city among Americans, is the hidden gem of Italy. Siena does get a lot of foot traffic, but tourists are often stopping by on their way to a more popular city or only taking a day trip here. But, contrary to popular belief, Siena cannot truly be seen in a day. Heck, the Palio itself takes at least 24 solid hours to explain!
Studying abroad has meant putting myself way outside of my comfort zone. I am quick to welcome challenges and believe that you grow the most when you choose to do something every day that scares you. I like to think I adapt to new situations with ease, but I have most definitely experienced my fair share of language and culture barriers.
Last weekend the SAI Barcelona family traveled to Montserrat for the day. It is located west of Barcelona taking us an hour to arrive at the base of the mountain. The train to Montserrat leaves once every hour from Placa d’Espanya, therefore, it is important to be punctual! The sheer beauty of Montserrat left me wanting to come back and conquer the highest peak, Sant Jeroni (1,236 meters).
Studying in Florence is a series of amazing events happening day after day, but nothing is as special as when friends or family come to visit! Of course with such limited time you might not be able to fit everything in. Here is a guide to five of the best places to take your friends and family when they visit.
Before I left for my semester abroad my home school warned me about the homesickness and culture shock, but to be honest I didn’t really believe them. I thought, “There’s no way this could happen to me.” Boy was I wrong. It is something everyone goes through while abroad, which is a good and bad thing. The bad part is you too will experience it.
Ever since my senior year of high school, I knew that I absolutely, positively wanted to study abroad during college. Needless to say, my expectations were incredibly high coming into this. I think everyone sets their expectations high for a semester abroad because it’s a big idealized thing. Traveling the world, making new friends, experiencing life in a new country, and getting some fire Instagram pictures. It’s supposed to be absolutely perfect, right? Wrong.
I want to give a little precursor to this post by saying I, in no way, mean that I’m special or an exception to any rule when I talk about my study abroad experience. Although, as someone who struggles with mental illness, I feel like I can provide a different take that can help prepare others for this time.
These photos highlight SAI’s excursion to Abruzzo from September 14th to the 16th. This was by far my favorite trip I’ve taken so far–who wouldn’t love horseback riding, eating on the ocean, and taking a self-guided tour through a castle in the mountains? The region of Abruzzo certainly is a hidden gem, with its gorgeous scenery, unforgettable food, and charming historical towns.
It’s so god-like; the way the sun creeps through the details in the gates, the architecture, and the ceilings of various basilicas and cathedrals. The crows sincerely flock amongst the highest pillars, statues, and apartment complexes. Flowers cover terraces and rooftops, as if everyone had a garden. Everything created here seems inspiring enough. Romans cared, and still do, about glorious, gigantic creations.
We handed over our Instagram account for the day to SAI Paris student Jordan. Jordan gives us a glimpse of a typical day in Paris. Bonjour! Je m’appelle Jordan! (@heyyjdawg) I am from Colorado, but am currently a Junior at Baylor University studying marketing. This fall I am studying abroad at the American University of Paris! And what’s a trip to Paris without a visit to the Eiffel Tower?!
There are so many amazing opportunities that you encounter as a study abroad student: meeting a multitude of new people, learning firsthand about a different culture, maybe even learning another language. However, one of the coolest opportunities, and perhaps the most important to take advantage of, is the ability to travel.
Food When talking to friends and family about my decision to fly across the pond and study in Spain, the Mediterranean diet continued to surface. “Lots of fish and even more olive oil!” I kept on hearing constantly. Nobody lied about the consumption of olive oil. To put it in perspective on average Americans consume 1.1 liters of olive oil every year but Spaniards, a voluminous 10 liters.
One of the best parts about studying abroad is the opportunity to travel to so many new countries around you. The time you spend in your host city for the semester is so special, and nothing can really beat living life in Florence for a few months, but the weekend trips sure come close.
On a spur of the moment decision, a roommate and I decided to go to the Amalfi Coast for a weekend getaway. We decided to go to Positano, and it was one of the best decisions we made. The views were absolutely breathtaking, the water was the clearest I’ve ever seen, and it became one of my favorite Italian trips. The whole time I was there, I couldn’t stop staring at my surroundings thinking, “I must be in a dream.
One minute I was dozing off in the drone of Florentine traffic, and the next, I was awoken by gasps and awes. I slowly rose from my awkward slumped position of rest to join in with the group’s amazement. I looked out the window to see the thick woods of the mountain we were climbing, but in the breaks, there was a quick peek as to what was to come.
1. La Cite – Borgo S. Frediano, 20, 50124 Firenze FI One of the best places in Santo Spirito to just sit down and enjoy a book or get some homework done is La Cite. This cute little cafe doubles as a library! During the day you can enjoy a sandwich or a brownie with a cappuccino, but if you come back later you’ll see that the place has been turned into a quiet bar!
Sometimes to really experience something fully, you just have to jump straight in. That was my thought process when I decided to sign up for the Cultural Introduction to Italy week-long intensive. This is a travel course through Florence University of the Arts that happens about one week before classes officially start in Florence. We arrived in Rome and travelled along the coast (for the most part) until we reached Florence on the final day.
The heat has passed, yet the bustling of a summer city continues. In fact, it is accentuated by the multi-locational jazz festival in the Oltrarno quarter. The Firenze Jazz Fringe Festival brought the best Italian and international jazz musicians to the city for four nights of incredible performances. The curators of this festival worked hard to emphasize the historical significance of the city as a stage.
After seven months of preparation, it’s finally happening. I am here, abroad, in Florence, my now home away from home. It’s absolutely surreal, living around the corner from Piazza Santa Croce and walking to class past Il Duomo. Even constantly tripping on the uneven cobblestones and narrowly dodging speedy Vespas feels special. I’ve only been here for about two and a half weeks and I already feel at home.
Paris, as you may know, is perhaps the perfect city for one of my favorite pastimes: People-watching. The (literal) thousands of cafes, with outdoor tables facing the city streets, make it all too easy to stare at strangers as they stroll to and fro. Within these first two weeks of my Paris adventure, I have invented a game to make people-watching all the more amusing, which I call: “Spot the Tourist.
One of the many perks of going through SAI are their included excursions and trips, which you must take advantage of. So far, we’ve had a welcome day, which included wine tasting and a tour of Frascati, a food tour, and a weekend excursion to Abruzzo. The weekend excursion to Abruzzo is an absolute must.
Street Markets With Live Music (Cultural Events): Monumental Club
Check out SAI Barcelona’s new reporter’s introduction to his blog and his first recommendation: Street Markets With Live Music. The Plaza de Toros Monumental de Barcelona, more commonly known as La Monumental is a fascinating bullfighting ring located in the Eixample district. Having a capacity of 19,582 this venue has been graced with concerts from the revolutionary Beatles and the legendary Rolling Stones.
I have decided I’m going to use this blog post as an opportunity to be very real and honest. I am beyond grateful to be here and have this opportunity in Florence, however, this has been the most difficult transition of my life. These past two weeks have been very hard on me mentally and physically and it’s something that I want to bring attention to.
The Eternal City and the Capital of the World, Rome boasts some of the greatest art and structures from the old world. You will find the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Vatican City, and countless other treasures. If you see any of these attractions, you are standing where ancient Romans once stood; through observation, you are experiencing the legacy of thousands of years that is Rome.
What did you learn about yourself when you were abroad? How have you changed?I was very nervous about studying abroad. I found myself very comfortable at school and was hesitant to leave the college environment. I did not want to miss out on any school activities and leave my friends to go to a foreign country.
Rome is the perfect European capital where art, history, and religion are significant and contribute to Rome’s uniqueness. As a fashion lover and someone who enjoys eating foods that are difficult to pronounce, Rome was the perfect place to gain valuable knowledge and experience new adventures. Here were some of the iconic landmarks I visited so far and the yummy food I got along the way.
I really can’t believe it’s the end. What turned out to be one of the most rewarding and at the same time challenging four months is all behind and I’m finally going home. I’m so excited, in a few short days I will be able to hug my family and friends back home, something that I’ve missed so much. To write about my entire experience is simply impossible because every day was different.
The Adventures of Interning in a Foreign Country When you Don’t Speak the Language **Hint: the secret is patience, positivity, and a lot of hand signals** Ciao! My name is Charlee Wilkerson and I’m a rising senior at the University of South Carolina. I’m a Retailing major with an emphasis in Fashion Merchandising and I chose to spend the summer in Sorrento, Italy interning at a boutique called Acanfora.
Before arriving in Italy, like any eager student who has never once stepped foot outside of the United States, I had brainstormed what exactly I wanted to get out of my study abroad experience: what I wanted to learn, what I wanted to see, what I wanted to eat!
During my time here in Sicily, I’ve had my fair share of time to explore the city and experience new things. In deciding to come here, I believed that Italy would have many similarities to my home in New York, but over the past two weeks, one thing I have noticed is that there are actually quite a few differences between my tiny suburban town of Rhinebeck, NY and this condensed city of Siracusa.
We handed over our Instagram account to Kristin for the day. This is her day in Florence. Ciao everyone! My name is Kristin @kristinhiemstra and I am studying abroad in Florence, Italy at Florence University of the Arts! I am a student from @coloradostateuniversity studying Health and Exercise Science, but here in Florence I am studying History and Photography! Today I’m going to give you a glimpse into my life abroad…hope you enjoy!
As our final days in Florence approached, my roommates and I couldn’t help but constantly reminisce on all the memories we shared and the crazy ups and downs we experienced in this beautiful country we can now call home. With the stress of finals and packing our lives up we had remembered our silly bucket list that we made in the beginning of the semester.
My time is Florence has come to an end. It seems like just yesterday I was stepping off the plane to be greeted by the wonderful SAI staff. These past few months have flown by but they were filled with wonderful memories that I will cherish forever. Studying abroad is a great opportunity to learn more about yourself and the world you’re living in. You get put into situations you haven’t experienced before.
One of the many perks that come along with studying abroad through SAI are the opportunities for students to go on amazing day trips for free (after a 10€ deposit that you get back on the trip)! This semester I went on trips to thermal baths, a Fiorentina calcio (soccer) match, and historical cities surrounding Florence such as Lucca, San Gimangiano and Prato.
I am not sure where I am going, so let’s get into this and hopefully, we can both come to the end having learned something. This mantra aforementioned is how I try to go about every new situation and I think this mindset can benefit many. Confidence is the ability to be sure of oneself or prospects and embrace the uncomfortable.
We handed over our Instagram account to Lauren for the day. This is her day in Florence. Ciao! My name is Lauren Roderigues and I am studying abroad in the Bella Firenze, Italy at Florence University of the Arts. I am a student from @emmanuelcollege in Boston studying Graphic Design. Here in Florence I am studying ceramics, photography, exhibition curating and illustration and book publishing.
As one of this years scholarship recipients I was asked to complete ten hours of community service in Florence. This was a great opportunity for me to engage with locals and give back to the city that his given so much to me! Where I decided to dedicate my time volunteering came about in an interesting way.
While studying abroad in Paris this semester, I learned 14 things. Here they are: 1) Be as much of a tourist as you can in whatever city you are in, abroad or at home. It is so important to soak up all that a city has to offer and to experience the “must-do’s”- they’re must do’s for a reason! 2) But, know when to live like a local.
I have met some incredible individuals this semester. Europeans, short and tall, have welcomed me with open arms throughout my four months abroad and the kindness is truly contagious. The range of people has gone from playful children next to me on a canal cruise in Amsterdam, to a wise old woman helping me with the London tube.
We handed over our Instagram account to Caroline for the day. This is her day in Florence! Ciao! My name is Caroline, I am from Florida, I am a photography major at The University of Central Florida, studying at FUA in Florence, Italy this spring semester! I’ll be taking over the handle today to show you what a typical day is like for me in Florence!
My study abroad program is located in Florence Italy. I live in the city center but in a primarily residential area. Near me are markets, restaurants, and even a church. I have gone as far to explore the other side of the river which is the Arno river. Florence is a historic city. Various pushes in fashion began there and then there is the Duomo.
As my program is sadly coming to an end, I have been reflecting on some of the ways I want to spend my last days in Rome. And I thought to myself, “What other way to spend my last few days in Rome than by eating the great-quality food than I cannot find at home!” Here are some of the ways I have been spending my last few days in Rome.
We asked Sam, SAI Rome student, to show us what a day in her Roman life was like on our Instagram account. This is her day in Rome. Ciao! I’m Sam, a junior at Penn State currently studying at John Cabot University in Rome. I’m taking over SAI’s account today to show you my typical day in the Eternal City.
We handed over our Instagram account to Willa for the day. This is her day in Florence. Ciao! My name is Willa, I’m from NYC and I’m a junior at University of Wisconsin-Madison studying at Florence University of the Arts this semester. Today, I’m taking over the SAI instagram to show you a typical day in Florence!
As I am coming in on a close to my study abroad experience I have been reflecting on all the things that have made this new part of my life so special – getting to experience my culture firsthand and learn what it truly means to be an Italian, traveling to new and amazing places I could have only ever dreamed of visiting (and figuring out how to get from point A to point B
Last week, I took a train with five other girls down to Annecy, a cozy town nestled in the south of France. It sits 22 kilometers south of Geneva, at the northern tip of Lake Annecy. The area is known to be one of the oldest inhabited sites in the Northern Alps. Recent digs dated a lakeside village to 3,100 years before Christ.
