Fashion Design Internships in Italy

Absolutely loved being abroad. Sai was wonderful and supportive (academics, visa, financial, etc) the whole way through. My living situation was nearly perfect, the location was relevant and local. Viva activities were great. Staff was exceptional.

After being ghosted multiple times by the employer I was originally matched with, I was placed with C.R.E.T.A Rome, a ceramics studio and artist residency studio. I am a graphic design major and was tasked with designing two catalogues for the upcoming shows of one of the studio's owners, a magnificent ceramicist. I worked in person 20 hours a week and 10-15 hours remote per week and this has been a very rewarding experience. The placement was perfect and I'm very grateful.

Ever sense I was a little girl I have always told people I wanted to be a fashion designer in Paris and I think if I would've known what the duomo was I would've said italy. Over my internship I worked with Ilaria Tollsi a fashion designer who opened her own atelier. with her I gained real life experience and got to feel what its like to work in my dream career field in a beautiful place. I dont think I would change my experience for anything. i think about florence every day.

I am so very grateful for my experience through AIFS. Although my internship placements were off to a rocky start, my studies abroad truly made up for it. From weekly activities, cooking classes, and local restaurants, AIFS has curated such a unique broad brush stroke into dipping your toe into long-term living in the heart of Florence. I could not be happier with my roomates and all of my friends made through the program and credit this opportunity for all of the locals and other fellow study abroad students through various programs to AIFS.

Spending Summer 2025 in Milan through the IES Abroad Internship Program was a defining chapter in my academic and professional journey. As a consulting intern at GEN USA, I worked on real-world strategy projects that challenged me to think critically, communicate cross-culturally, and deliver client-ready insights. The 6-credit internship seminar added depth to the experience, helping me connect theory to practice while refining my global business perspective. Living and working in Milan taught me how to navigate ambiguity, build trust across cultures, and approach consulting with both precision and empathy. This program didn’t just expand my resume — it expanded my mindset. I left with stronger analytical skills, a deeper appreciation for international collaboration, and a renewed commitment to leading with purpose.

I did an internship in Florence, Italy in the summer of 2025 through AIFS Abroad, and it was truly one of the best experiences I’ve had. I chose AIFS because of their strong reputation and the support they provide, and they really delivered. From the application process to my time in Italy, the staff was always there to answer questions, give guidance, and make sure I felt prepared and supported throughout the program. The housing was safe and well located, which made it easy to enjoy daily life in Florence. I also appreciated the excursions and cultural activities that were included, since they gave me the chance to explore more of Italy and learn about its history and culture in a hands-on way. These experiences helped me connect with other students in the program, and I built friendships that made my time abroad even more meaningful. This internship not only allowed me to live and work in another culture but also helped me grow in confidence, adaptability, and intercultural communication skills. It has had a lasting impact on me personally and professionally, and I feel more prepared for future opportunities because of it. I would highly recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone who wants a supportive, well-rounded, and unforgettable study abroad or internship experience.

Florence was absolutely incredible. From beautiful art to exciting lively parades, there is a range of different activities for every kind of person. The academics were also very interesting. I took a Museuology course and an Archaeology course while I was there and it was some of the most fun I've had in classes. I got to go to museums and learn about them and got to handle real Etruscan artifacts and try to construct them back together. The courses are relatively smaller but for me I was able to build a tighter-knit relationship with my peers and professors so I greatly appreciated that opportunity. API is also a wonderful program host to go through as they not only set you up with different options of where to stay but they also are ready to support you every step of the way leading up to and during your study abroad experience. I had a moment abroad where I had to deal with feeling very ill and I was in need of some help. API connected me with an excellent doctor abroad and were very supportive in my search for help. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome - especially being abroad. On top of this, they also organize different excursions for students to go on. We got to go to Venice and Rome through API and it was incredible. They organized tours, time for us to go explore, and our transport and stay. It was absolutely wonderful to not have to stress the details of traveling while already being abroad. API was absolutely the program for me.

I have always wanted to study abroad, but I never expected an experience like this one, as provided to me through ISA. Milan was an absolutely incredible city, and ISA led me through the changes perfectly, with clear instructions and constant open communication. If you get the chance, study abroad with ISA- the community this company builds among students abroad is unmatched, and the quality of employees is exactly what's necessary for a dramatic change like going abroad.

The best thing you need to know about Linguistic Horizons is the great support system. I often communicated with Nicole from the start of my application, my departure and all the way to the end of my internship, and she was absolutely fantastic. So nice, friendly and helpful and willing to hear you out always! I had some issues with finances and my placement and she sorted it out like nothing. I would recommend this experience not only because of the the prospects of being abroad and immersion, but for the cultural and work life that awaits you. Loved everything about my experience and I'm sure you will too!

Linguistic Horizons responded to this reviewDecember 20, 2024

Thank you, Angellah! I'm so glad you joined us in London!

Studying abroad with IES was truly everything I’d ever dreamed of and more. It was an incredible experience that expanded my world in ways I never expected. I had the chance to meet some of the most amazing people who quickly became close friends, sharing countless unforgettable moments together. Beyond the friendships, I also had the opportunity to explore so much of Europe. Traveling to different countries and experiencing diverse cultures first-hand was beyond anything I’d imagined. This journey not only fulfilled a lifelong dream but also left me with memories and connections that I will carry with me forever.

It was a great experience, however I do think it is geared towards people with little to no work experience and did not meet all my expectations of learning something new in a new work environment. The best part was being able to practice my Spanish with my host family.

CIEE provided me with a great internship site, a clean and nice apartment in a good neighborhood, and gave me roommates who shared similar interests. The staff was extremely kind and helped me whenever I needed, and were good about checking in with me about my experiences

Cassidy was awesome, smart trip was awesome and it was a great experience overall def recommend! I made the best friends and am so glad I did this experience. The summer program was super fun and the perfect amount of time!

My experience interning abroad in Florence was absolutely amazing! AIFS paired me with the perfect internship for my aspiring career. I had the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture and learn in a foreign work environment. It was the best internship I could have asked for immediately following my undergraduate graduation and made me feel more prepared when returning home to start my career. It was truly an unforgettable summer!

Everything from the beginning steps of applying to landing back home 2 months later for me was as smooth and straightforward as one could ask for. All the coordinators work with you to ensure your safety. This program changed my life and opened the door for endless possibilities for the future in my profession. I was able to live another life and travel so easily, if any issues arose there was always someone I could talk to 24/7 no matter where I was. Made so many friends not only within the program but also from where I was living. I now because of this am lucky enough to say I’m returning to Florence, Italy due to a job offer I received while interning thanks to the wonderful placement from AIFS.

I had a truly amazing experience from start to finish while being involved in this program and working at my internship. The living accommodation I was given was very nice and I was placed with great roommates who made the experience even better. The AIFS staff were very helpful and there for support if needed and were easy to communicate with. My internship placement exceeded my expectations and the people I worked with were amazing and I was able to build relationships and friendships with them even outside of work. Overall I am truly grateful and happy that I chose to take part in this summer abroad program and for the experiences and memories this has given me that I will never forget.

I spent the summer in Florence, Italy with AIFS working as a communications intern for a local company. The internship was a really valuable experience as I got to experience what it's like to work full-time in addition to having the opportunity to do a multitude of tasks for the company I interned with. The staff at AIFS were constantly available if we needed help or support and I am really thankful to have had this opportunity.

I got to meet so many amazing people from around the world, and connect with so many employers and people on a business level as well!! This experience allowed me to really step out of my comfort zone, and learn so much about myself, I will remember these experiences for a lifetime!

I had the best time interning abroad in Florence. I had a good internship and I made great friends. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Cassidy Fickes was our AIFS contact in Florence, and she was always so helpful and made the process so smooth.

Embarking on the AIFS Florence Study Abroad Program was one of the most transformative experiences of my academic journey. From the breathtaking landscapes to the rich cultural heritage, Florence served as an unparalleled backdrop for an unforgettable adventure. One of the most commendable aspects of the program was its seamless integration of academics and cultural immersion. The curriculum, designed offered a diverse range of courses taught by knowledgeable professors who were passionate about their subjects. My personal favorite course was Marketing of Italian luxury fashion. Whether delving into Italian fashion or mastering the nuances of the Italian language, each class was an opportunity for intellectual growth and exploration. Beyond the classroom, AIFS provided a plethora of experiential learning opportunities that allowed students to engage directly with Italian culture. From guided tours of renowned museums to cooking classes led by local chefs, every activity was thoughtfully curated to deepen our understanding of Italian traditions and customs. Living in Florence for a semester provided a unique opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Immersing myself in the vibrant local community allowed me to develop many intercultural skills and forge lifelong friendships with fellow students from around the world. Overall, AIFS provides students with an amazing program, idea housing situation, and engaging courses and excursions that will contribute to lifelong memories.