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The Siena Project 2026
Join us in Siena, a historic city now facing the modern challenges of migration in Europe. Since 2021, Siena (pop. 55,000) has seen an influx of migrants, largely from Pakistan. Within a year, 1,500 young men arrived—some placed in housing facilities, others forced to seek shelter in parking lots or behind the train station. This course uses narrative storytelling as a tool for social change. You’ll study the theory and practice of public interest communications, then partner with a local organization supporting migrant assimilation. Through hands-on projects, you’ll apply strategic communications and storytelling to help shift narratives around migration. Immersed in Italian culture, you’ll build skills in interviewing, writing, photography, and videography while learning how research-based communications can address real-world issues. This course blends academic study with practical experience to show how storytelling can drive meaningful social impact..
Join us in Siena, a historic city now facing the modern challenges of migration in Europe. Since 2021, Siena (pop. 55,000) has seen an influx of migrants, largely from Pakistan. Within a year, 1,500 young men arrived—some placed in housing facilities, others forced to seek shelter in parking lots or behind the train station. This course uses narrative storytelling as a tool for social change. You’ll study the theory and practice of public interest communications, then partner with a local organization supporting migrant assimilation. Through hands-on projects, you’ll apply strategic communications and storytelling to help shift narratives around migration. Immersed in Italian culture, you’ll build skills in interviewing, writing, photography, and videography while learning how research-based communications can address real-world issues. This course blends academic study with practical experience to show how storytelling can drive meaningful social impact..
Program Highlights
Receive instruction in basic Italian.
Experience Siena’s iconic Palio horse race, Palio di Siena—a tradition and celebration that spans four incredible days, from June 29th through July 2nd.
Plan day and weekend trips to nearby cities, such as Florence, Rome, and more, with the help of ieiMedia and the SIS Staff.
Have two free weekends while in Siena that allows for an easy bus or train trip to nearby cities.
Stay with host families facilitated by our partner SIS Intercultural Study Abroad.
Quick Details
- Siena, Italy
- Summer
- Communications
- Journalism & Broadcasting
- Marketing, Advertising, & PR
- All Nationalities
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Siena, Italy
Types and Subjects
- Subjects & Courses
- Communications
- Journalism & Broadcasting
- Marketing, Advertising, & PR
Availability
Years Offered: 2026
- Summer
Age Requirement
18+
Guidelines
All Nationalities
This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group
Starts At
Program Cost Includes
- Tuition & Fees
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Some Program Activity Costs
- Travel Insurance
- Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Welcome Dinner
- Guide / Chaperone
- Training
- Language Lessons
- Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
- Pre-Departure Orientation
- In-Country Orientation
Accommodation Options
- Home-stays
Qualifications & Experience
- English
Language Skills Required
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- University 5th Year or More
- High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
- Some college credit, no degree
- Trade/technical/vocational training
- Bachelor’s degree
- Associate degree
- Master’s degree
- Doctorate degree
- Professional degree
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Written Application
- Letters of Reference
- Essay
- Online Application
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Siena Project cost?
The Siena Project costs $6,445, excluding airfare and academic credit. For an additional $450, students can receive academic credit through the University of Jamestown.
What are the housing accommodations for the trip?
Project participants stay with host families facilitated by our partner SIS Intercultural Study Abroad.
Will studying abroad impact my graduation?
Students may earn three credits of an upper-division journalism elective for this course, four credits for schools in the quarter system. The University of Jamestown will issue the credits, and we will work with you so that these are easily transferable to your university. Transfer credit ultimately depends on a student's home university.
The cost for academic credit is $450.
Is financial aid available?
Recognizing that the expense of international education can be a significant barrier for many students, ieiMedia actively shares and advises on accessible resources such as the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. Contact us for details.
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