What inspired you to found the Istituto Europeo in Florence?
I was born in Tuscany—such beautiful place full of art and history—and one of my desires was to share all that with people of other cultures and learn their point of view. In fact, each student and each visitor teaches to me a new perspective of Florence.
Can you tell us about your role as the Director?
My role is to take care of the school in all its aspect and to take care of the students. I make sure that everyone is happy and everyone has what he or she needs. I also work to find new ideas and see what it is going right and what is going wrong.
How do you support students and interns?
Following their request from the beginning, step by step, as if they were my children.
What is the philosophy behind the Istituto Europeo?
The Institute's philosophy is to make learning enjoyable, to study in depth the language and the Italian culture in a friendly, multicultural environment.The teaching method of the Italian language course is based on the most innovative concepts of language instruction which gives students the opportunity to live the language on all levels and learn its spoken and written usage. Attention is placed both on the correct use of grammar and syntax, as well as on the use of everyday language.
What makes your Istituto Europeo different?
Istituto Europeo is also an active cultural centre that offers courses on Italian history, art and history of art, literature, and music (both instrumental and vocal). Nearly every day there are extracurricular activities which include seminars on Italian Literature, art history and music, to films, concerts, walking tours, parties, dinners, soccer and volleyball games, and of course the weekend excursions. Students enrolled in our Fine Art and Music courses will also have a chance to demonstrate, to their fellow students and the public, what they’ve learned through monthly recitals and art shows.
What are the qualifications of your teachers?
All of our Italian teachers hold degrees in Italian Language and Literature, or Classical Letters. Most of them are graduates of the University of Florence. Before teaching at Istituto Europeo, all of our teachers are required to complete specialization courses on teaching Italian to foreigners.
What would your advice be to a student looking for a language school?
There are of course many Italian language schools in Florence, but look for the school that will best complete your Italian cultural experience. Consider what they are offering you in terms of services, supplemental courses, activities, seminars, and excursions.
Why is Florence an ideal location for students and interns?
For the same reason inspired me to open the school. It is a place full of beauty, art, and history—an ancient city with multiculturalism and a modern world.
What do you hope participants take away from Istituto Europeo programs?
I hope that when they return home that they are new inside, culturally richer and happy for being in Italy having fun, priceless moments and learning new things.
Why are you proud of the work Istituto Europeo is doing?
Istituto Europeo was my dream to help people smile and laugh in my own school because they are doing something they love—whether it be music, language, or art history.
What is the mission of Istituto Europeo and how do you ensure that you continue to work towards this mission?
The mission is to be a meeting point of people from all around the world—a place to learn a new culture and meet people. I try to find new ways to let grow up and to get better teachers and students. It is a positive challenge.
Why is it important to travel and experience new cultures?
To open your own borders. To understand other humans and yourself. It is a huge chance to better understand the wonderful world we are living in. Traveling is about enjoying new people and new cultures, but also yourself and your own world.
Are there any developments in the works for Istituto Europeo that we can expect to see in the future?
Oh yes, there are many. We want to improve and do also something new. It will be a surprise!
