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.