By Dorothy Wigon
Photo by Sebastian B.
What are the digital ways study abroad students are utilizing to research their destinations pre-departure and upon arrival? Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are not only ways to show your friends and family what you are doing but also tools for exploring new environments.
Music courtesy of FUA Music Production Course students
By Aidan Loughran
Whether you’re packing for a semester, quarter, or single short session, these suitcase-slimming tips come in handy for everyone and may even provide a head start to making new discoveries at your destination.
As I was preparing to depart for Florence to study abroad for a semester, my main concern through the pre-departure process was how and what I was going to pack. A semester is a long time to be away from home and it is hard to know what will be needed in a new country that you’ve never been to. I know myself fairly well and I knew I would over pack, but I also don’t want to leave anything behind that I may potentially want to wear. Once I started filling up my suitcase, I realized that there were many things I wouldn’t wear and by limiting myself, I ended up packing much lighter than I originally would have. Here are three main tips you may find useful while packing.
1. Slim Down: Buy Vacuum-Sealed Ziploc Bags
These bags saved my life! While I had a decently large suitcase, being a girl, I still packed more than I needed (of course!). I was able to fit about ten, thick sweaters in one of these bags and it shrunk them down a crazy amount. It took up very little space and made ten sweaters look like two.
2. Remove When in Doubt: Toss Any “Maybe” Items
When packing, I have always had the problem of packing “maybes” or “options.” By this I mean packing clothing items that I think I may want to wear, but usually never end up doing so. DO NOT bring these items. You will not end up wearing them. If you don’t wear them at home, you won’t while abroad. Limit yourself.
3. Buy There and Make New Discoveries
Unless you are going to a country that has little access to grocery stores, pharmacies, salons, etc., do not buy your toiletries in advance. It is a waste of space and you can get anything abroad that you will need. Sure, bring along that face or hand cream from your favorite niche brand but otherwise wait to buy items such as mascara, eyeliner, and hair products until you get to your country. Florence for example has Sephora, salons, beauty stores, and interesting local brands. For the guys, there are bespoke barbershops and well-stocked men’s sections at stores. Checking out what’s available can also lead to local discoveries, such as the antiche farmacie, the historic pharmacy shops that produce their own collections, or contemporary perfume makers that you’ll only find in Florence.
I hope these tips will provide you with a simple, easy and slimmed down packing process. Enjoy!
By Leanora Karnath and Morgan O’Reilly
Sometimes, envisioning your life in a new country can be a bit difficult to imagine until after you’ve arrived. Whether you are getting ready to come abroad or already in Florence and in need of inspiration, below are some itineraries of a typical day of FUA semester students. Semester classes are usually held once a week and students typically take anywhere from 4-6 courses. If you’ve signed up for any 3-week short session courses within the 15-week semester, remember that classes will be held daily from Monday to Friday.
Day 1
Leanora shares an example of her typical day that coincides with when she has one class and has some extra time to explore locally while balancing coursework.
9:30am – Wake up.
10am – Grab a cappuccino and chocolate croissant at Fedora, the pastry shop operated by FUA hospitality students and faculty.
10:30am-12:30pm – Check out a new museum. Already seen the major ones? Then try these smaller gems.
1-2pm – Browse through the Sant’Ambrogio fresh food market and purchase some groceries for the week.
2:30pm – Grab lunch from my favorite panino place. Grabbing a panino is something quick and easy to eat before class. There are many options in the area, so try a few before deciding which one you like best.
3-5:30pm – Travel Writing class at the FUA journalism building near the Duomo.
6-8pm – Cross the street from the J School towards the Oblate Library to do homework. Pack up my backpack. Enjoy the great view of the Duomo with a pastry from the cafe.
8:30 – Dinner out with friends. Meet by the Duomo and head over to the Santo Spirito area. Walk by the Arno River along the way.
Day 2
Morgan shares her typical day when she has two classes scheduled.
9am – Wake up.
10am – Grab a cappuccino and a pastry at specialized coffee bar such as Ditta Artigianale. There are many spots around Florence for a coffee and a quick bite to eat, both traditional and from newer generations. Being a barista myself, love checking out new coffee places on my way to class and discovering different coffee drinks.
10:30am – Read a book or paint in the Rose Garden.
12pm-2:30pm – Intermediate Drawing class at the FUA main building near Piazza Santa Croce. If you want to take an art class at FUA, this class focuses on human anatomy through Florentine sculpture. You learn how to improve your technical drawing skills while applying them to your own drawing style.
3pm – Grab a fennel salami panino with pecorino and pear jam at Sandwichic and sit on the steps of the San Lorenzo church.
3:30pm-5:30pm – Do some homework in the top floor, open-air courtyard of the Oblate Library.
6pm-8:30pm – International Marketing class at the main building. Learn marketing techniques on a global scale through lecture and real world application to a multinational company.
9pm – Grab dinner with friends at Osteria Santo Spirito.
Other Activities?
FUA offers a series of extracurricular activities so students can become more involved in the community and fellow peers. Here’s a selection of some of our favorites.
Taste Italy Culinary Workshops – The classes are fun and interactive, held at FUA’s hospitality school, Apicius, and you can meet FUA students over some delectable food.
FUA’s Gym Classes – These are a fun and social way to stay motivated and healthy as you explore your way through Italian/Tuscan food culture:). The gym also has regular hours for workouts.
Ganzo Themed Dinner – These are delicious and so much fun. They also happened to be prepared by FUA culinary classes so you can check out what your hospitality peers are up to. Check out the calendar for upcoming Thursday themes, put your reservation in early, and enjoy interesting, delicious courses with wonderful wine pairings.
Visit the Student Life department’s website to learn other ways to become involved in your new home. Curious about what fellow students suggest? This blog regularly offers ideas, suggestions, and explorations so keep checking back for updates!
See more of Florence and Italy at FUA’s FB, Instagram, and Twitter.
By Chris Hartman
For many students arriving in Florence, adjusting to a new country can take some time. A new language and atmosphere can sometimes create moments of culture shock or homesickness. There are many tips to help with the adjustment process and embrace life in Florence, and the FUA Student Life Department is a great resource for a comprehensive and detailed approach to experiencing your term abroad. In the meantime, here are a few immediate yet easy and essential tips for all students, regardless of how long you’re staying in Florence!
Life in Florence is such a great experience for students. It is important to transition as quickly as possible so you can spend your time enjoying what is around you. Hopefully these first tips provide a little insight into the transition into Italian culture. Have an open mind and have fun enjoying life in Florence!
By Kristyn Laviola
Studying abroad in a whole different country is one of the most exciting experiences you will ever have. For those still in college, we are on pretty tight budgets and money can fly out of our pockets if we’re not careful. Specifically in Florence, there are so many new things to discover such as the extraordinary cuisine, beautiful architecture, the multitude of museums, world-famous and niche fashion brands, and many more. So how can you fully enjoy the experience without breaking the bank?
Here are some helpful tips that I have made and followed throughout my semester abroad:
1. Understand the currency exchange rates. It is helpful to know how much your country’s currency is worth compared to the European Euro. Exchange rates can always be changing so it’s important to keep a look out.
2. Talk to your bank. Don’t forget to let your bank know that you are studying abroad. Most banks will shut down your debit/credit card if they notice that you are spending money in a different country. Also, speak to them about international fees when withdrawing money and if they recommend certain ATMs that correspond to yours at home.
3. Create a general budget. Take a look at your bank account and decide how much money you are willing to spend total during your term(s) abroad. This number can range from high to low, it all depends on how comfortable you feel about spending while abroad.
4. Segment your budget into categories. Once you’ve calculated your general budget, decide how you want to spend your money in regards to eating, activities, shopping/gifts, travel, etc. The allotted figures will vary depending on your personal interests and how they evolve during your time abroad. I personally decided to spend more money on food and activities rather than souvenirs. It’s up to you but it’s important to take the time to reflect prior!
5. Stick to your budget. Don’t just buy something because it’s there. Spend your money on the most important items/activities you want. It may seem challenging, but it will be worth it in the end so you don’t break your bank!
By Ayumi Ranucci
The entire process of preparing for studying abroad can be long and tedious, but it is completely worth it! Once all the paperwork has been filled out and you are days away from leaving, the last thing you need to do is pack your bags. At first I thought this was going to be extremely difficult, how was I going to pack one suitcase for 4 months? The first thing you should do is check your airline rules and see how much an additional suitcase would cost as well as the weight limit for one suitcase. Some fees can get pretty hefty for a second suitcase – which I was not willing to pay – and decided I would only use one – in addition to my carry-on bag. This was surprisingly easier than I thought.
1. Only pack what you need! One of the most difficult parts of packing is figuring out what clothes to bring. Make sure you think about what the weather will be like while you are abroad and pack for the correct season.
2. Pack light – for example, try to bring only a few pairs of pants and a variety of tops that can be used to make different outfits.
3. Think hard about shoes! With one suitcase, it is important to really think about what shoes that may weigh down your baggage. Bring comfortable shoes because Florence is a walking city – you will be surprised by how you easily can get around the city – and the last thing you want are feet covered in blisters! Instead of stiletto heels, an alternative could be ankle boots that are both pretty and utilitarian.
4. Consider seasonality – Make sure to bring items that will go with a variety of outfits and that are appropriate for the weather. Italy is often seen as the sun-soaked land of Fellini’s Dolce Vita, but Florence can get cold and damp in the winter and extremely humid in the summer so always check the weather pre-departure!
5. When preparing your beauty case – Think about the most important products that you use on a daily basis. There are plenty of pharmacies, beauty stores like Sephora, and well-stocked beauty sections in department stores like Coin and Rinascente in Florence but bring your essentials made by a brand that’s not carried by stores in the city. If you use prescription medicines, see the note* below.
5. Pack for the experience! In the end, remember that you are here for the experience and to really enjoy where you are. Focus on the essentials, you may want to purchase some nice clothing items while in Italy, as well as save room for all the souvenirs and gifts you will be taking home.
*If applicable, get informed about prescription medication and make sure to bring copies of your prescriptions. Usually the same medication can be prescribed and purchased in Italy, but note that certain medications (current example, Adderall) are illegal in Italy and will not pass through customs. Shipping medicines are NOT a good idea due to factors such as customs. If you have any further questions, write to the FUA Student Life team at sld@fua.it.
When coming abroad to Florence for the spring semester, there are a few fashion do’s and dont’s that can come in handy for packing. In every country, dress codes are distinct from that of other cultures and in Italy, well, style has always been a celebrated element! When living abroad, a part of your cultural immersion can also benefit from observing customs related to dress and style habits.
Some general packing tips can be find in our “How Do I Pack?!” post. As for the spring season, here are some tips from fellow FUA students to dressing practically while looking stylish in one of the most iconic Italian cities over the next few months:
1. No workout attire when out of the house: Sweats are a no-no. Locals tend to wear workout attire when they are actually going to exercise. Ladies: during cold weather, stores like Calzedonia carry inexpensive tights with a cashmere blend to pair with a skirt or dress!
2. Shirts with logos: You may feel the urge to bring your favorite club organization or sports team shirts abroad but leave all of that at home. The Italian style is simple but sophisticated; shirts covered in logos will be a huge giveaway.
3. The first portion of the semester may be extra cold. Fitted down jackets/coats are perfect for the cooler weather in Florence, which can get pretty damp in the winter. They keep you warm while still looking stylish like the locals. Streamlined winter wool coats thrown over a nice sweater is always chic as well!
4. Scarves and layering: Bring your favorite scarves from home to throw on with a cute winter sweater or cardigan. Scarves as well as hats add an extra pop to any outfit. Layering also comes in handy as often it can be very cold outside but warm inside school buildings.
5. Once February and early March pass by, the city starts to warm up. Springtime can be fickle so an extra-light umbrella will be handy for the last few months of the semester.
6. Light slacks or springtime pants and jeans are comfortable and stylish choices when paired with a good shirt. Shorts are usually worn in the summertime and in casual situations such as going to the beach rather than in the city. If it’s just too hot and you really want to wear shorts in the late spring, then we advise tailored versions paired with clean-cut sneakers or spring sandals.
6. Flipflops are immediately associated with tourists. When the weather gets hot as summer approaches, open-toed shoes, lighter sneakers, and elegant sandals are some options to consider.
And remember, it’s not too late to tweak your wardrobe once you’re here. You’ll be receiving the FUA student manual that also includes tips on where to shop:) Once in Florence you can also check out the FLY store managed by the students and faculty of FUA’s fashion department FAST where you can find high quality vintage, professional emerging designers, and items designed by FUA students. The coat in the featured image is from Bastah, a recent emerging designer that exhibited at the store.
So you’re thinking about living in Florence? After only a few months of study, some students have collected their favorite out-of-the-classroom moments to share with you. This is living in Florence, the FUA student experience.
Growth shocks: “Studying in Florence has been an experience like no other. Growing up, I didn’t travel much and had never left the country. I was eager to arrive, but my cold feet settled in as the days got closer. I’ve always been able to anticipate the setting and alleviate some of the shock, but it was my first time in Europe. Experiencing the streets of Florence has been my favorite experience thus far. The difference in culture is evident, starting from the way people stroll daily through the streets and squares. I admired a sense of looming simplicity, sense of tranquility, inspiring architecture, and provoking street art. My initial cultural shock was by far my most awakening moment, which fuels its importance to me. I attribute all of the growth I have made directly to being an FUA student”
– Student from Bogota, New Jersey
Seeing from a new heights: “A memorable experience of being a student at FUA would have to be taking the first hike up to Piazzale Michelangelo. It was pretty steep going up and the views become progressively beautiful. When I first arrived, I was questioning whether or not my decision to study abroad had been a good one, but when I saw the view, I realized that this is where I was going to be living and I knew I had made the right decision.”
– Student from Pound Ridge, New York
Mediterranean blues: “If I had to specifically pick a favorite moment of my Italian experience so far it would have to be swimming in the sea off of the Amalfi coast in southern Italy. I have never seen water so crystal clear, or so blue. I was in awe of the natural beauty and charm abundant in the Mediterranean. One of the best weekends of my life.”
– Student from Dallas, Texas.
Being a student abroad certainly allows you the ability to travel around Italy as well as out of the country, but for many students their best experiences happen locally right here in Tuscany:
Learning directly from the source: “My most memorable experience while studying abroad at FUA has been learning about the wine culture in Tuscany. I had the opportunity to visit a historic winery called Abbadia Ardenga in Montalcino, an area south of Florence known for the production of the renowned Brunello di Montalcino. The owners made us feel like we were old friends and that is what I truly appreciate about the hospitality here.”
– Student from San Diego, California
These are just a few examples of the experiences lived thanks to the Student Life opportunities we have here at FUA, that span from travel and exploration to matters related to personal and academic growth.