SAI Programs

I had wanted to study abroad since high school, and SAI made that happen. It was as fun as I imagined, and I would do it again in a heartbeat if my degree allowed. I love to travel, and immersing myself in the city culture was the best thing I have done. I loved the Viva Experiences that SAI had as well, allowing me to take many day trips, as well as take pottery and dance classes, among other things. I loved the on-site staff as well, getting to know them through various excursions. One ran the program's soccer team in the study abroad league, which I got out of my comfort zone and joined. If you told me I would go and play soccer abroad beforehand, I would have laughed, but looking back I am so glad I took the leap and did so. I may not have been great, but I made friends and had a lot of fun.

If you are thinking about studying abroad with SAI, DO IT! They were so helpful with getting me prepared before I left, while I was there, and even once I returned home! By studying abroad I gained so much confidence that I knew I had in me but hadn't unlocked yet. I studied the Italian language, and am proud of how much I learned. I took a class on the Italian-American Experience where I learned about Italian history, the immigration process, did a research project on my family's immigration from Italy to the United States and found supporting documents along the way. Each member of the SAI on-site staff was wonderful and so helpful! All of the FUA professors were passionate about what they taught, new me by name and were so accommodating and kind! Florence is a wonderful and beautiful city that I would love to visit again. I am very thankful for my time there and highly recommend studying abroad with SAI.

To any student who’s even contemplating studying abroad: Go for it! SAI will change your life in amazing ways you never would have expected. Studying through SAI at Florence University of the Arts in Spring 2025 was the best and most memorable experience of my life! In just four and a half months, I stepped outside of my comfort zone and into a world filled with new languages, cultures, friendships, and adventures I never imagined possible. Whether I was exploring Italy on day trips provided by SAI, learning to cook regional dishes in class, or traveling over the weekends to European countries, every week brought something meaningful and exciting into my life and if I could have, I definitely would have stayed longer than just one semester in Florence, Italy. What made this experience even more special was the constant support that my roommates and I received from SAI throughout the entire year; they supported me with the initial application process up until the day I returned home…and even now, months later, other opportunities with this program await me. At first, I was overwhelmed and nervous before studying abroad, but the staff made everything feel manageable and exciting, and they were always just an email or phone message away whenever I had a question or needed guidance. The SAI staff would even show up at our door if we needed anything while living and learning abroad! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and SAI makes it not only possible, but also truly unforgettable so I without a doubt recommend this program to anyone interested in studying abroad!

I truly recommend SAI's amazingly seamless study abroad program. SAI prepares you for your adventure before departing and provides support through every step of the way (if you need it). I really admired the SAI on-site staff - they led with authenticity, were very helpful, and always made sure we knew their offices were available to us for anything and everything. SAI also provides program enhancements like cultural experiences (cooking classes, day trips, etc.) for FREE which is just incredible and provides amazing opportunities for foundational friendships to form! The Global Leadership Certificate is another enhancement that makes this program unique - it allows you to (if you choose) complete a number of community service hours and reflect often on how your experience abroad is helping you grow as a global citizen. I chose to complete the Global Leadership Certificate and am so grateful I did - I met wonderful locals during community service and gained a unique perspective by reflecting on my time abroad. Rome/Trastevere in itself is an amazing place to study - it is rich with culture, many locals, and a bustling yet home-y feel. By studying there and befriending SAI friends, locals, and JCU students, I grew immensely and became more spontaneous, appreciative, present, and joyful. If I could say one thing that really captures this experience, it would be this: SAI has great resources and runs a seamless program, but what really makes it memorable is the heart put into every part of the experience. That's what leaves me still thinking about it and so grateful for every moment.

My time with SAI was amazing. The entire team was extremely caring and responsive to any issue that we had abroad. Everyone was knowledgable and had many resources as to how to be successful abroad. The only thing I will say is that the housing situations were hit or miss location and size wise. It would have been nice to have more information on housing options and assignments. Other than that, great program with different options for volunteering, host families, and events!

It was such a crazy life changing experience, I loved my class and SAI was so incredibly helpful along the way. Any question I had, before, during, or after, was answered efficiently and effectively. I never felt like I was alone in a foreign country which is super important when you're out there. They also provided so many awesome and unique experiences that are included with your tuition, which I highly recommend! I will always recommend SAI to anyone wanting to go abroad.

SAI was the best program at our university in Florence. We always had activities to attend that were included in our tuition. We could go to cooking classes, bind books, take day trips, and more. The onsite staff was always keeping us updated with current events and happenings in the city. You can always stop by their office to ask questions or just talk. They are so helpful with anything you need or ask for. Florence itself is such a perfect city for study abroad as well. The people are so welcoming and kind and the city is just big enough to have so many things to do without feeling overwhelmed. The museums and historical sites are stunning as well as some of the landscape if you take yourself a little bit outside of the city center. Overall I couldn’t have asked for a much better experience studying abroad in a different country.

Studying abroad in Barcelona was a phenomenal experience. Not just because of the beautiful city, but the SAI program genuinely made my entire semester so much more enjoyable. The staff in Barcelona was always so extremely helpful with any questions we had or if we wanted to do an activity. I joined the club soccer team through SAI and met some of my best friends. Cannot recommend this program enough!!

I am so glad I chose to study abroad with SAI! They made the whole study abroad experience so much easier! They help you every step of the way starting from the day you apply to the day you leave Barcelona! One of my favorite part about SAI was the VIVA experiences, which are excursions or activities that are included in your program fee that help you experience the local culture. The staff is also super helpful and friendly, they are there to provide any help you need 24/7 during your time abroad.

I loved my time in France and SAI made it so much easier and comfortable for me to study abroad! I had a lovely host family who were very kind and helped me improve my French. SAI and AUP also worked together to make my class a successful and meaningful experience. The professor I had at AUP was fantastic and very knowledgeable about her subject. I would highly recommend studying abroad with SAI to anyone because they made the process so smooth!

Studying abroad in Barcelona was the best thing I ever did for myself. Partnering with SAI helped me meet so many of my best friends to this day. SAI was extremely helpful in all aspects of preparing me and ensuring my safety and happiness abroad. My apartment was on the same block as sagrada familia and a 15 minute walk to UAB. Our program directors were extremely accommodating and knowledgeable. The activities helped to bring us together as a study abroad community as well as learn more about Barcelonas geography and culture. I could not recommend anyone but studying abroad in Barcelona and with SAI.

To say I had the time of my life during my year abroad would be an understatement. Before going abroad, I came from a small town, small college, wasn't much of a risk taker or adventurer. After settling into my new life in Florence, Italy, it was all the cliches and more— the amount of personal growth that occurred was off the charts. Traveling to different countries on weekends, trying new foods, meeting new people, living alone in a foreign country, even the process of navigating pharmacies and the doctor's when I was sick, all these were things I couldn't imagine doing on my own before I left. SAI was great in every aspect, from providing help when I really needed it (even sending me with a translator when I had to visit the ER) to setting up social and cooking gatherings with other students (completely free!). I had a great time during my year abroad and deeply encourage everyone to take one too.

SAI was by far the best program I could have chosen to work with during my time abroad. From the moment I registered all the way to months after being back in the States, SAI went out of their way to meet my needs. They picked me up from the airport and took me to my apartment (which they provided), making me feel safe in a country I’d never been to. They had an orientation teaching us the do’s and don'ts of being abroad and the difference in our cultures, which was very beneficial. All semester long, they hosted events that allowed me to explore different parts of Italy and meet amazing people in my program. My favorite events were the pasta making class and wine tasting, as well as making chocolates in Perugina. Even when I got back to the states, they continued to reach out asking how I was adjusting and what they could have done better, to improve their program for the next students. SAI is dedicated to giving students an amazing experience abroad and you can truly see that by the way they care for you. Couldn't recommend SAI enough!

To put it simply: studying abroad changed my life. The thought of going abroad for the first time can be really scary and intimidating but I promise you it will be worth it. I learned how to appreciate the small moments, connect with the local community, and most importantly I gained a better understanding of who I was as an individual. Studying abroad truly changed my perspective and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to call Florence my home. Through it all SAI remained a helping hand and the moments and memories made in Florence will be cherished forever.

Studying abroad with SAI was the best experience of my life. I learned about SAI through a friend, and I will definitely be recommending it to everyone. The on site program coordinators Sandrine and Elena were very welcoming and helpful from my arrival in Barcelona until my departure. Every activity they had planned for us was very well planned and executed. They work hard to get to know all of their students and they deeply care for each student. The housing they provide was in a great location and was very nice. I am so glad I chose to study abroad with SAI!

I highly recommend choosing a program like SAI for your study abroad experience because it offers you much more flexibility and opportunity for free time unlike university sponsored trips. I was able to travel to different cities around Italy whenever I wanted by simply taking the train after class. We also had very free weekends to do anything we wanted, like travel to other countries (I went to 4 others in only 5 weeks!). My experience was even greater than I expected because SAI helped make everything go so smoothly and I was never stressed out about anything. They also had plenty of activities for us to get to know each other before classes started which helped with making friends and getting familiar with the city in general a ton. The location in Trastevere was the perfect combination of locals/non-tourists and other study abroad students or families who ventured over the Tiber to our side of the river. Such a cute town with great restaurants and night life (from dancing in the street to little bars!). Close enough to walk and see plenty of the touristy or historical areas in Rome too. SAI takes care of your transcript forms at the end and everything too which was so helpful. I can’t recommend them enough!

Elisava was such a unique experience and I am glad l I took this chance to grow and learn. Doing it through SAI really helped to ease me into it. SAI staff were always there for support and constantly checked in which created a sense of community and comfort. Elisava as a school is a really wonderful place where people from all over come to learn and share their design background. Compared to some other study abroad programs in Barcelona, Elisava is a heavy workload but is highly rewarding. There is such a strong sense of community and teamwork with so many differing perspectives which really broadened my horizons.

I made lifelong friends and memories that will last a lifetime! I was so lucky to have been in one of the most beautiful places in the world with such amazing history and culture! For this being my first time in Europe, it will be hard to beat, and I will always reminisce my time in Florence. The SAI staff were very helpful and easy to communicate with during my stay in Florence. They were always there to host their own activities to help immerse us in the culture and also have tons of fun! Overall, I would definitely recommend to anyone who is interested in growing their cultural competence and looking for a program that can be affiliated with their university!

I studied in Barcelona the summer of 2022 and it was incredible. Prior to this, I only traveled out of country to Canada and the Bahamas with my family so it was a brand new experience going to Europe by myself. I wanted to take the jump so I did, chose random roommates and decided to go to Barcelona. Right off the bat, I was greeted by some of the SAI on site team and driven back to my apartment. They helped me up and introduced me to my roommates. We got to know each other immediately. I had that weekend free and then started class that Monday. One of my roommates was in my class which was amazing so we commuted about a half hour on the metro together. My apartment was directly next to The Sagrada Familia (most beautiful location ever) and the campus was near the beach. My class was from 6-9pm Monday - Thursday. We would take the bus right after class to the beach every day. My class had students from the US, local students, and other international students. It was a film class and the premise of the class was to create a film on your own. We decided to film a local festival. This was an incredible way to immerse myself directly into the culture. On the weekends, I traveled from to Madrid to visit family one week, Ibiza one weekend, and the other weekends I just explored the city and local beach towns. By far the best summer of my life!

SAI genuinely cares about the well-being of their students and is supportive yet encouraging of trying new things and not being afraid to tackle a challenge! Especially loved the proximity of the office to FUA and the "open-door policy" in them encouraging us to come to them if we ever need anything. The SAI Viva Experiences were amazing and integral in helping us get to know the city and Italy as a whole, as well as engage with authentic Florentine culture through activities such as gold leafing, bookmaking, and cooking classes!

I really liked studying abroad through SAI. They care about you and want you to have a great time while you are there. They offered lots of activities for us; wine tastings, beach trips, visiting Dali museums in other cities, hikes, and museum tours. The activities were a really nice way to spend time with people in the program regardless of if they also went to UAB, since SAI has 6 different schools in Barcelona. I was able to join a soccer team for SAI where we competed weekly downtown, near the beach, against other study abroad programs in a tournament. It was a really fun way to get to know people in my program, and also people in other programs because we would stay after and talk to them. I highly recommend SAI for the community they help you build there and the opportunity of studying abroad through a homier group.

I loved my experience abroad so much words cannot explain. I lived with a host family and felt very connected to them, and will be in touch with them for a long time! The school was great and all of the staff were so nice and helped us integrate into the city. There was a ChatPal program to practice speaking italian and make friends with local students which I loved!! I practiced speaking italian a lot and my language skills improved dramatically, and I got to make so many friends and go out with Italians to really feel like a local. I also really felt like part of the community with all of the fun activities SAI had planned for us. From wine tastings with the owner of our favorite sandwich shop to day trips to the most magical cities, it was overall an incredible experience.

I believe that studying abroad is something that everyone should do, if they have the opportunity to. This was an amazing experience where I got to live in a whole different country for five months and experience a whole new culture and people that I am not use to. I had to put myself in situations that I never thought I would, and it was very beneficial for me. I got to experience a new language where I was able to pick it up after just living there for a short while. You become accustomed to their way of life, and it changes who you are and you get to bring all your new knowledge back to home to share it with others. While being in one country, the cheap airplane tickets to a close country was how some weekends were spent. This journey opened up more of the world to me and never did I think I was going to be able to say I have visited eight new countries in a short amount of time. Studying abroad was a beautiful experience, and I would go back in an instance.

SAI Programs provided me with all of the necessary resources to have an amazing experience studying abroad. I studied abroad in Florence, Italy for a semester program. SAI provided many resources to help me acclimate to my surroundings and build a community within my program. They also hosted a survival Italian course so that I could learn enough of the language to get by. Compared to my friends from other study abroad providers, I felt much more well-adjusted and prepared for my experience. I also had a great living situation and made lasting connections with some of the people that I lived with. SAI assisted us with any maintenance needs as well as helping us to monitor our utilities. One of my favorite things about SAI Programs in general were the Viva Experiences. During my semester, SAI hosted a large variety of experiences such as cooking classes, bookmaking, gold leafing, visits to a mushroom circular farm, hikes, and many more! I always had a great time on these experiences and felt that the price of the program was reasonable for how many great experiences we were able to have. Lastly, I loved the on-site staff. I was constantly in the office because I had a semester internship with SAI. The office staff were always so friendly and helpful. It was such a warm environment to walk into each week, and I am thankful that I got to know them.

Overall my experience in Barcelona was amazing! From the school to the programs administration, it was all incredible. I had support from the moment I completed my application now. The administration from the headquarters in the US and in Barcelona still keep in touch as are so friendly and helpful. The activities they provided were also amazing, especially the day trips to other local towns. My University was great and I really enjoyed the class I took. I took a film and documentary class! It started off slow but picked up as we started shooting our own.

I had the best 3.5 months of my life studying abroad in Florence. SAI made it so simple to plan and prepare for. Lots of free events with SAI such as pizza making, Italian dinner making, book making, walking tours, weekend or day trips, you name it! Felt so safe in Florence and in the hands of SAI, would recommend this experience to everyone I know

Studying abroad with SAI was a great experience. They helped us adjust to life in a foreign country, were always there to assist us, and facilitated many culturally immersive experiences to help us feel like locals in Florence. I learned empathy, responsibility, and resourcefulness. This experience fostered my curiosity for and appreciation of different cultures.

Ever since I was little I dreamed of living in Italy (mostly because of the food), and was ecstatic when I was able to spend an entire semester in Florence. SAI sent me very clear instructions on getting my visa and all my pre-trip requirements sent in, even helping me work out some issues when I turned in documents late. The combination of SAI's cultural immersion programs and Florence University of the Arts' student clubs gave me ample opportunities to experience not only wonderful Italian food, but also Italian arts, geography, and language. I was lucky enough to fill requirements for my degree while also getting to take Italian culture classes such as Italian Food and Culture, and an Italian history class. My favorite part of participating in an SAI program was all the excursions they provided for us: bookbinding, cooking classes, hiking, wine tasting, a weekend trip to the seaside, it was incredible! Not to mention, every fun program we did came with a wine tasting! I'm very happy I chose to study with SAI, they paired me with a fantastic school, gave me so much support and community while I was in Italy, and helped me fulfill my dreams of being immersed in Italian culture.

I would go back and live abroad in a heartbeat, and it's all because of SAI. I had the best four months of my life in Florence, and I can easily say it is my favorite city in the whole world. SAI was so helpful throughout the whole process. I really appreciated the countdown dates they had prior to departure, which helped me figure out what I needed to have done by when.

Studying abroad with SAI is hands down the best decision I have ever made. The process if preparing and getting to Rome was seamless as the staff were the most friendly and informative individuals I had the experience of getting to know. Not only was there over 10 planned outings (included with tuition) through the SAI program, but they also ensured everyone felt safe and comfortable. I made lifelong friends on this journey and have some of my most fond memories from this trip. Planning on taking my boyfriend to Rome to show him what my time was like here just a few years ago. If you're debating studying abroad, DO IT!

Studying abroad in Rome, Italy through SAI programs was the experience of a lifetime. During my semester with John Cabot University, I was able to truly embrace my Italian heritage through many aspects. Living in the neighborhood of Trastevere, I was connected to many methods of transportation. This allowed me to take regional trains and international bus rides to explore on my down time. Some of my adventures included visiting different historic hotspots across Italy like Venice, Florence, and Naples. I was even able to visit my ancestral village of Moio Della Civitella in the province of Salerno. Meeting long lost relatives and learning to live independently on my own really made my study abroad experience with SAI worthwhile. Their staff I was very supporting when it came to concerns that I had prior to making a full commitment. I would truly recommend that anyone looking to study abroad do so through SAI. SAI opened up the world to me in ways I previously never would have imagined!

Syracuse is a smaller town on the east coast of Sicily, about 45 minutes south of Catania. I felt very immersed into the culture as I was easily able to meet locals through my daily activities and my internship. The locals are super friendly but most people don’t speak English so it really pushed me to learn Italian faster. By the end of my 8 week internship and 4 week intensive Italian course, I was able to carry a very basic conversation in Italian. There were many opportunities to meet other Americans as well, I even met one of my closest friends in Sicily! The smaller coastal town feel really made Syracuse feel like home quickly and I got to know some of the locals who worked at the local cafe very quickly which really gave me a sense of community. Syracuse also isn’t super touristy so the cultural immersion was very authentic and happened quickly. I also received an amazing internship that had me shadow photoshoots around southern Sicily which was amazing. I recommend studying abroad in Sicily if you truly want to be fully immersed in Sicilian culture.

I studied abroad for six weeks in the summer of 2021. It was the best experience of my life, I was incredibly comfortable there, and SAI took care of everything I needed. They had orientation and welcome events to help us get to know the other students who I would end up traveling with every weekend. They also help emerse us in Florence’s culture by having locals take us on tours or bring us to their favorite spots. I was never once concerned about my safety and felt that SAI did a great job about educating us on cultural differences in Italy compared to the US so we knew what to expect. They also had us fill out a travel form so they always knew where we were incase something happened but we’re not overbearing. If you’re even thinking about studying abroad, go with SAI! It was the best!

I studied abroad at JCU in Rome, Italy through SAI programs and had an amazing semester that I still think about. I was supposed to study abroad my junior year, but COVID made that impossible. When I thought about studying abroad senior year, Rome was the only option that really worked as all the classes I needed to graduate were offered. Even though Rome wasn't my original plan, I'm so happy that is where I ended up. They made the process super easy from visa help to everyday questions about living in Rome. There were plenty of included excursions that I definitely recommend taking advantage of. I met some of my closest friends and was able to learn surrounded by people from all over. I 10/10 would recommend studying abroad, especially through SAI.

Studying abroad in Florence has been amazing! SAI has been so helpful with plenty of pre departure meetings and information sent through their “ready, set, go” pack. Upon arrival, they’ve been great with planning activities, answering any possible questions, and giving us all the information we need to be successful. I truly feel like I could go to them with any kind of issue/question, or even to ask for recommendations on restaurants or things to do in Florence. They go above and beyond for their students!

SAI provided me with the best semester ever and I’m so thankful I took this opportunity! I was super nervous to study abroad but it ended up being the best decision ever!! I met a ton of people from all over and got to travel to many countries. This allowed me to immerse myself in many different cultures! All the professors and staff were absolutely amazing. There was a strong and welcoming student support system the entire time I was there. The community was also very welcoming! I will never forget my time abroad and the great memories I made! I can’t put it into words how much that semester means to me!!

My experience studying abroad was unique unlike any other year that will go. We were the first class to go after COVID, so it was a fluid situation for us. SAI did their absolute best to keep all the activities they safely could for us. On the ground, Jordan and Marco were more than helpful, and were there whenever we needed them. They never held our hands, but knew when to step in for help. They were always smiling faces to see around campus as well. I have wanted to study abroad since I was in 8th grade, and was very appreciative of everything they did to make that dream a reality after COVID. There were plenty of activities to do, even with some removed due to the pandemic.

I spent spring 2022 in Rome and had the best semester of my life. My housing was a cute little apartment and under ten minutes from campus and my assigned roommates ended up being my best friends. I tried to go to almost all of the SAI excursions and they were always so much fun and the on-site staff was great. Even when not on SAI travel, they always had awesome recommendations for where to go and where to stay. I also ended up having to see a doctor while I was there which was super nerve-racking, but they were amazing at helping me find an English-speaking doctor and helping me organize everything. If you have a chance to study abroad with them, you won't regret it.

-Met a lot of new friends in the program -The SAI staff was really helpful and nice, tons of nice trips hosted by them as well including well planned day trips! -The Housing was amazing, better than what I had back home. -SAI classes are decent comparing with home school classes (Parsons), the professors are generally helpful and nice as well. -Would 100% recommend

SAI made my abroad experience worthwhile. I had the most amazing time exploring Florence and learning about the Italian culture. SAI provided many resources and experiences to help enhance our experience. They provided hands on support from picking us up from the airport to providing us amazing apartments throughout the city of Florence. Without SAI, my abroad experience wouldn't have been as seamless.

Most people visit Rome or one of the big cities when visiting Italy. I must say it was very unique and I feel very blessed for being able to experience Sicily and the wonderful city of Siracusa and its beautiful island of Ortigia only steps away from where I was staying. I truly feel that my Italian speaking ability increased significantly and it was so interesting to learn about the distinctive Sicilian culture and to communicate with it's people in their native language. It was so nice being in Italy as well, where I was able to travel to other Italian destinations on the weekends with just a quick flight. I really feel like a got as much as possible out of what felt like such a short time abroad. I would love to travel back to Italy someday and see the rest of the country, so hopefully I will have that opportunity. Regardless, as an Air Force contract at Texas A&M University, I am looking forward to a life full of travel upon graduation and I think this was a great first step in my global citizenship. Thank you SAI !!!

Studying abroad truly impacted my life so much and was the best experience that I have had at school! It was very educational but also a TON OF FUN!!! I highly recommend it! It grew me in so many ways and really helped boost my confidence in traveling by myself! I met so many people through it, and I would do it all over again if I could!

I thought SAI did absolutely everything to ensure I had the best experience in Florence. The staff was extremely friendly and so helpful! I absolutely had the time of my life, and cannot think of a single negative comment to say about my entire experience.

Many people wouldn't choose to go abroad in a pandemic, but SAI makes it all worth it. I have no regrets about my choice and I wish I could do it all over again. This was my second time studying abroad with SAI and they never fail to make you feel comfortable, prepared, and excited. I was happy with my classes, living amenities, and location. It was truly an experience of a lifetime that wouldn't be possible without the amazing staff at SAI. I would highly recommend studying abroad and most importantly, studying abroad with SAI.

My time abroad in 2021 was not what I had envisioned when I planned to study in Italy. However, it ended up being more than I could have hoped for. I had the best 3 months of my life!! The friendships I made, the food I ate, the skills I learned, the sights I saw and the experiences I had all made the trip of a lifetime. We truly got to see Italy's bones! The empty streets with no tourists was a sight to be seen. A day did not go by where I regretted my decision to travel abroad. Florence, Italy feels like a second home now and I left a piece of my heart there when I left. I am so excited to see the city coming back to life and I cannot wait to go back someday to experience more! I would encourage anyone to step outside their comfort zone and travel abroad (especially to Italy) because there is so much to be seen.

Florence, unknowingly, was the perfect place for me-- the art, the city size, the feeling, the atmosphere. SAI was also very helpful and provided a great program with their trips and helpful staff. About SAI: SAI set up our housing, health insurance, different events and excursions (book-making workshop, cooking class, day trips to Siena, Lucca, etc.). Even in the chaos and unknowns of the beginning of the pandemic, the on-site staff was sweet, competent, and as helpful as they could be. They helped to answer questions throughout the program and were a great resource even for just peace of mind of knowing that there was someone there was you got overwhelmed or confused. They really helped make the arrival process easy and made sure we were introduced to our new city through an orientation and a magnificent dinner in a palace on our first night. My apartment was SO CUTE! I definitely saw some of my friend's apartments that weren't as aesthetic, but overall everyone's housing seemed pretty nice, clean, and safe. My apartment was located near the Duomo, so it wasn't too bad of a walk to get to the main areas/campus buildings. It was only a 5-minute walk from the Mercato Centrale, a big fruit/veggie/meat/cheese/spice/wine market. We had 3 people in a room, but it honestly wasn't as crowded as you would think. There were big beautiful windows that I miss looking out so much. We had a washing machine, a stove/oven, microwave, a fridge/freezer, tv, couch, and a little table to eat at in both the kitchen and living room. Was it worthwhile?: It was absolutely worthwhile, and I only got 1/3 of my experience (coronavirus interrupted it). I learned so much about what I want in life, how I relate to the world, and how to navigate an unfamiliar place and unfamiliar situations. I have a strong drive to become bilingual now and a love for Italian food and culture that I wouldn't have thought possible. I have this ridiculous section of my brain just filled with Italian art history (something that will certainly come in handy as an art teacher). I learned just how delicious gluten free food can be, and cannot wait to go back and have it again. I learned how to travel with people I just met and make new friends in a second. Yes yes yes, it was so worthwhile.

Although my semester got cut short to two weeks, I had the best time in Milan! From the beginning, SAI and the onsite staff in Milan were supportive, welcoming, and knowledgeable on topics of visas to best pizza restaurants. Within the short time I was abroad, I met and made friendships with many other students in my program and locals that attended my University. SAI and Cattolica were supportive throughout the semester of online courses and provided resources to immerse ourselves in Italian culture virtually.

I have no regrets about choosing this program and would be quick to recommend it to a friend. SAI offered great support and amenities. My apartment was fully stocked with everything I needed. Kitchen gear, linens, etc. and maintenance requests were always met promptly. Expect living differences based on culture and routines. Wifi can be spotty. The location of my apartment was well thought out and close to my university and metro. I attended the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona in their study abroad building which was in the middle of the city. I wasn't fully aware that it was the study abroad sect of the school, so my classes were not with local students. Most of my classes were with young adults from the States. My professors were engaging and kind. I enjoyed all of my courses, from political science to art history. SAI's Barcelona office / team was amazing and I felt safe and comfortable with the staff. They were our friends and immediate support system. We took a weekend trip to Sevilla and activities were provided almost every week (like cooking classes, hikes, and museum visits). I also was able to volunteer at a local school and work with third graders in their art class. Volunteer opportunities are always available to go along with your courses. SAI encourages each student to be independent and explore on their own but is there for any need, at every step of the way. From the application process to our farewell, I trusted SAI with all of my questions and concerns. I made fantastic friends and memories and my study abroad experience was truly so great due to SAI.

Studying abroad with SAI is the best decision that I've ever made. SAI helped me throughout the entire process, from pre-departure, while in Rome, having to come home in the middle of the semester due to COVID-19, and afterward. SAI provides you with a ton of resources to make the process of applying for visas, booking flights, and obtaining a permit to stay as easy as possible. While in Rome, SAI gave us many opportunities to get to know the other students in the program and learn more about the city and country that we were staying in. The amount of students was perfect because there was a small enough group to where we all knew each other's faces but a large enough group to where we could meet new people and have different friend groups. COVID-19 put a huge amount of stress on the students in the program, but the on-site staff helped us through the entire process by providing assistance in arranging flights and reassuring us and giving us kind words throughout the entire process. SAI made the difficult (but responsible and correct) decision to send all students home when some universities did not make the decision for themselves. When I arrived home, SAI staff reached out to make sure that I had settled back into life in the United States and worked to provide us with as much of a refund from the time that we had to leave early. I loved every moment that I got to spend in Rome and without SAI I would not have been able to enjoy my experience as much as I did.

My experience studying at UPF with SAI in Barcelona was incredible. I would choose it over and over again. UPF - UPF is the top ranked school in Spain, so the classes were definitely challenging, but in a good way. I didn't feel like I was wasting my time with school, I really was learning important information. It is also a very historic and culturally Catalan school, so it was perfect for getting the local experience I wanted!! Beautiful and peaceful campus just a 10 minute walk away from Barceloneta (the beach). Be prepared to do school work, but also have really cool professors and learn a lot. Totally worth it. BARCELONA - I'm probably biased but I think this is the best city to study abroad in. Absolutely beautiful, so much to do, awesome night and day life, and super easy to travel out of / access the airport for weekend trips. SAI - SAI was the best decision I could have made. They were SO accommodating, quick to respond, and settled any worries I had going into it. The apartments we were assigned were really nice and fantastic location. SAI gave the perfect amount of independence but also security and excursion opportunities. The staff were all so welcoming, easy to talk to, and made you feel right at home. They also planned great events and were fun to hang out with!! We went to Monterserrat, had a flamenco dancing workshop, ceramics workshop, Catalan cooking night, weekend trip to Seville, and more ... the staff made all of the excursions so great!! I really felt like I got a local experience in Barcelona and that was my main goal for studying abroad. So much of the local experience I was given was from SAI excursions and their Global Leadership Certification, where I had the opportunity to earn an additional certification through making a presentation on a subject related to Spain, write a thesis statement, meet with the advisors, attend academic seminars, and volunteer weekly at a local school to help teach the kids English. Overall incredible experience!

This part of my life, was well deserved and the best part of my life! I happened to actually go abroad right before the Pandemic of Covid-19 happened in March of 2020. Obviously, I wish I could change that, but only that. SAI was so so helpful before, during, and after I had to leave. I had the hard times but more specifically the best times. I learned more about myself in the 2 and a half months I was there than at home. I went with no one from my school, and that is DEFINITELY the best move I could have made. I had to get out of my comfort zone and meet new people, I had amazing roommates, so it made it easier. If you are thinking about studying abroad, my number one advise it to just full send that thought! Do it, there will be some hard times but the benefit of loving it is more than ever could be imagined.

Studying abroad with SAI programs was one of the most amazing choices I could have ever made. I was able to smoothly transition from living in the US to Europe easily with the support of everyone on the team. They acted like a second family to me, helping answer any questions I had while I was abroad. When I was sick, they held my hand and really made me feel comfortable being so far away from home. This program offered unreal opportunities to travel with groups as well, making it easy to find new friends from schools all over the country! Overall I had the most amazing experience with SAI and highly recommend them to anyone thinking of studying abroad.

In Sorrento, it's always sunny. You can see the beautiful ocean everywhere you look and it is so calming. There is the perfect balance of city and nature. Sorrento felt homey and I loved that the university was right above the marina. I lived in the dorms and I did not want to leave. The rooms were spacious and cleaned once a week. My favorite part was our balcony overlooking the garden. I loved sitting out there and reading a book or journaling after class. The views from the dorms are amazing. Watching the sunsets from the rooftop balcony will forever be some of my favorite memories. I made lifelong friends from all over the U.S. and got to travel all through Europe. I learned that I could get out of my comfort zone and move to a different country, where I knew absolutely nobody and have the best time of my life. I miss Italy every day and I will have these amazing memories forever. I didn't have a lot of time to miss home because I was always doing something fun and I was shocked by how easy it was to make friends.

Like most people say, studying abroad was one of the best experiences of my life. Choosing an SAI program was one of the best things I could have done for myself because they made this transition as smooth as possible. Moving to a new country can be a very scary task, but SAI helped guide us as best as anyone could. They planned activities, Italian language survival guides, taught us how to use the public transportation systems, showed us neighborhoods to venture to, and much more. They went above and beyond to make sure students became more comfortable in those first few weeks and the weeks following. They were always available if we needed something and they encouraged us to come in and chat or ask questions. Im so thankful for SAI and all the hard work they put into their programs— it truly makes a difference!

As a business student from the United States, I had many options to choose from to study in Paris. I chose Paris School of Business because it was a smaller program with solely business focused classes which was one of my top interests. Registration was a longer process and took a few weeks for every student to get a finalized schedule, but it is easy to enroll in every necessary class. My classes have been extremely interesting in every department. In the international exchange program, I have met students from over 25 countries in my classes. This specific program and it's vast diversity has been my favorite part of my semester thus far. My knowledge of culture and international relations has grown immensely through this program. Classes have both socratic and lecture settings. Professors are enthusiastic and very knowledgeable. Most importantly, everyone at PSB has been beyond welcoming and friendly which is so helpful when moving to another country for the first time. I am so happy with my decision to study at Paris School of Business through SAI. Studying abroad through a provider was the best decision I made regarding this semester. There are so many frivolous and daunting tasks that come along with going abroad. SAI was extremely organized and made every step of the process both before and after departure very smooth. Housing was completely taken care of and I live in a beautiful and clean apartment in a safe residential neighborhood. They also coordinated with Paris School of Business to create my class schedule which was really helpful. Airport transportation, housing maintenance, and planning activities are some of the most helpful things SAI assists with. Aside from the organizational aspects of study abroad, SAI also assists with personal issues you may encounter. During my first few weeks here, I needed help to see a doctor and SAI staff immediately set up appointments with thorough health insurance instructions! My experience with both Paris School of Business and SAI Programs has exceeded my expectations so far and I would absolutely recommend them. If you are looking to study business specifically, Paris School of Business is an awesome option that I would also highly recommend.

I studied abroad for an entire semester in Rome through SAI and it was undoubtedly the best experience I've had in my life. I ate some incredible food, witnessed incredible places, met and connected with people who have changed my life, and learned much about myself. It was a semester of self-exploration and global-exploration! I have come back to the States as a culturally competent and well-rounded person who is able to adapt to situations. I became close friends with Alessandra and Jordan, the coordinators from SAI, and I truly enjoyed their company and learning from them. During my time abroad, I pursued the Global Leadership Certificate SAI offers which has supplemented my resume.

Sai made sure I was well prepared and knew everting I needed to know to have an amazing semester abroad. They provided many resources and amazing accommodations. They offered trips to fantastic places that you normally wouldn’t think to visit.

SAI was the absolute perfect program for me. I felt very prepared and wasn’t scared at all. I was roomed with two great roommates and there were plenty of activities in the beginning for us to meet other people. I was able to travel when and where I wanted to and felt safe. I had the time of my life.

SAI Programs was the best! They are a huge part of the reason why I had such an incredible time abroad. They were such a great help and an amazing resource while I was there. They also planned incredible trips and activities for us that I would never have done otherwise like pizza making, book making, and tours of the city. My classes were so cool because they were in English but taught by Italian professors where we got learn about their culture and education in Italy.I got to take classes that I would never had taken at my home institution. Because the workload wasn't heavy and I didn't have classes on Friday, I traveled a lot and got to see a lot of Western Europe and immerse myself in the culture, art, and history. I had such an amazing experience that I keep telling everyone I know to do it because I wish I could do it again.

I had an incredible experience when I studied abroad in Barcelona. I was able to travel every weekend but also was able to learn about the culture of Barcelona with the help of my SAI program coordinators.

I truly enjoyed my study abroad experience, I was able to have an overall positive experience through my school and program while abroad. But were helpful in making my journey a smooth transition. I was honestly quite nervous prior to my departure because I had never been this far from home for so long. But it was very important to me to gain a sense of independence by going off on my own and participating in this study abroad. There was always something to do and going on weekend trips was an especially enjoyable part of my trip. I was able to make memories and friendships that I know will last a lifetime.

I had the most amazing semester studying in Barcelona, Spain. The SAI program organized many activities and trips for my program which was all a lot of fun. These activities and trips included a scavenger hunt, many dinners, a cooking class, a trip to Montserrat, a trip to Sevilla and many more. When I wasn't doing activities with my program I was traveling with people in my program every weekend.

Prior to studying abroad, I had never left the country. I was extremely eager to get out and explore new cultures and places. With the help of SAI, my experience only benefitted. From the very beginning, they were helpful with every step of the application process and ensuring that everything was going smoothly for us. Traveling across seas for the first time without the help of your parents is scary, but SAI staff members were there to meet us once we got off the plane and really helped get us adjusted to our new home. I felt like I had a sense of security and familiarity because of all of the staff at SAI, but loved that we had an immense amount of independence. My experiences living abroad made me grow as a person, and created a new sense of confidence in me. Having to learn to live on my own, travel alone, and navigate new places gave me key skills that will help me throughout life. Studying abroad was the greatest experience and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

My experience in Florence with SAI was truly priceless. The program gave me the perfect blend of independence and support that I was looking for. I had plenty of opportunities to immerse in the local culture, and to travel often. The academic life was unique, in that it was based on experiential learning and hands-on activities. My classes were academically enriching, but not necessarily rigorous, so I had plenty of time outside of my course work to do what I went abroad to do: explore and experience. The SAI on-site staff were an invaluable asset to my time abroad, and my experience would not have been half as seamless without them helping handle logistics all along the way. I would go back to Italy and this program in a heartbeat!

SAI made it very easy for me to transition to life in Rome. They set up housing arrangements, helped with our student visas, and provided excursions around Italy. The SAI program leaders were always accessible to us! I was able to enjoy my time in Italy and focus on my studies and relieved a lot of stress by how well structured the program was. I highly recommend SAI if you are wanting to study in Rome!

Studying abroad through SAI was worth every penny and second of my time. I learned so much about myself and others through meeting people from all around the world. The friendships with other Americans who attend other universities are what I value the most from studying abroad. I still stay in touch with many of them and they will always hold a special place in my heart.

Study abroad was definitely one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I wish I could go again! In regards to SAI Programs, their extended help from before, during, and even after the program ended was so helpful. They were quick with responding to emails, and always easily answered my questions. Most importantly, when I got there, they were right there to pick me up from the airport and I felt safe and welcomed.

I had the time of my life studying abroad. SAI was amazing at being there for any health concerns, safety issues, orientation, or just random questions about travel. I would go back in a heart beat! My confidence and independence grew throughout my whole trip to the point where I was able to go on trips alone and be confident in myself to do that. This experience really did change how I go about my life and gave me so much more confidence by the time I was returning back home.

Studying abroad in Florence, Italy is an experience I will never forget. From a cancelled flight to lost bags, my study abroad journey did not get off on the best start, but as soon as the plane touched down in Florence I knew I was about to have a life changing experience. Florence will always be one of my favorite cities because of the size, people, food, and basically everything else. SAI Programs made my experience even better because of how easy it was. They provided me with endless resources from a packing check list to restaurant recommendations. I was able to be as independent as I wanted because they offered events and trips or allowed you to plan your own. I am glad I chose SAI to study abroad because they allowed me to make my study abroad experience unique to me.

I loved studying abroad with SAI Programs. They made the the process fun, exciting, and everything was very organized. I was sent packets and emails with a lot of information and I saved it in a folder and checked things of the list. Everyone is so kind and willing to help and answer anything. I would do it all again if I could!

I studied at ELISAVA in Spring of 2019 and it is definitely worth your time and money. Don't be fooled into thinking this school will be easier than your home university though. ELISAVA is a world renown design school and their teaching staff are a good example of why. You can really make some great connections a learn a lot (don't worry you can still travel on the weekends). My SAI program coordinators were there to answer any questions at all steps of the process and our excursions/trips were so fun. Barcelona is a city that has a lot going on and it can be a really fun place to be. You'll get tons of advice on what things to see and food to try and meet a lot of people from all over the world. There is so much to love about the program it cannot be put into a small review.

I wouId highly recommend SAI Programs to study abroad with. The program staff is extremely friendly and helpful. They helped me schedule several doctors appointments, and even went to the police station with me when my phone was stolen to help me retrieve it, which I greatly appreciated because my Spanish isn't very good. They excursions provided by the program are very well organized and SUPER fun. The staff are also very good at getting to know each student and really make sure each of us are safe, happy, and having a good time. I am positive that my study abroad experience would have been much harder and no where near as enjoyable without the SAI staff at my side. If you want to study abroad (which you should because its awesome!!) then DEFINITELY check SAI Programs, and consider Barcelona as your destination!

Choosing to go to Florence, Italy with SAI was the best decision I have ever made. I always wanted to go abroad and I had the added bonus of being able to complete my international business minor while I was over there. I had always heard how amazing going abroad was, but SAI exceeded all of my prior expectations. The on-site staff became a type of parental support team. If you ever had any issues you could always go to them day or night and they would do everything in their power to assist you. They were always there for support or local recommendations but they didn't hover or make you feel like you were at summer camp. They treated you as an adult and were genuinely happy to help you. They partnered with our local and abroad schools to make sure we were all in the correct classes and received credit and transcripts for all of our classes. They provided free and paid activities and always kept us well informed on local and home events via email and the facebook page. They knew what I needed before I ever needed it and my experience wouldn't have been the same without them.

SAI Programs was the best!!! They were such a great help and amazing resource while I was there. The first week, which was orientation, they gave us so much helpful information and tips that made the transition to living in Italy easier. They were all super friendly and knowledgeable about Florence and utilized that all the time. I would go into their office just to say hello, work on a puzzle, or even ask them for recommendations for places to eat or where to buy certain things from. I never had to go to the doctors for any reason, but my roommate did, and one of the SAI staff members went along with her to translate and make her feel more comfortable. They also planned incredible trips and activities for us that I would never have done otherwise. I cannot sing enough praises for the Florence SAI staff. I always tell people that Florence is the perfect city to study abroad in for multiple reasons. It's a bustling city full of rich art, history, and culture, but it's small so it's extremely accessible on foot. You don't need to take public transportation anywhere. Also, in my opinion, I think that Florence has the best food in Italy out of all the big cities, which I went to a lot of. There's always so much to do in Florence whether it's visiting world-renowned museums, going for a walk and grabbing gelato, eating amazing pizza on the steps of a historic church, listening to live music on Ponte Vecchio, or going to a bar with friends to grab an aperol spritz. You're never bored and always looking for the next things to do. I lived in an apartment in the exact middle of the city with four other girls and I absolutely loved it! I got along great with my roommates, we're still in contact even after we went home. The apartment was furnished with everything we could possibly need, and if something was wrong, we could put a work order in and they would come and fix it. The apartment itself was really big and spacious so we never felt like we were living on top of each other. It was really nice to have that independence that comes from living on your own. I learned a lot about myself as a person, which I was not expecting because I thought I was pretty in touch with who I was. But, it was cool to learn new things about myself. I also feel like I gained a lot of cultural capital as well because I've visited, seen, and learned about all these amazing things, like art and culture, that I had only ever dreamed of. I would study abroad again in a heartbeat.

I had the best experience of my life, all thanks to SAI programs. Their employees made everything so easy and comfortable while being half way across the globe on my own. I never once felt like I was alone because they were so welcoming and helpful every step of the way. I enjoyed my experience so much that I decided to become a student ambassador for the SAI program at my home university in order to share my experiences and help other students have the best semester of their college career, just like I did!

One of the best experience of my life. SAI mentors were very helpful during the entire process of applying and were also there to answer any questions or concerns I had while abroad. A lot of group activities to get to know other students abroad with you. 10/10 would recommend.

Elisava with SAI Programs is an unforgettable experience. Elisava challenges you with fulfilling project-based work, while SAI provides the perfect transition abroad. The coordinators at SAI are so helpful and accommodating. SAI is filled with a wide range of activities but still gives you the space to travel independently without missing out on pre-scheduled events/programs. The community at Elisava is incredibly supportive, and I learned so much from all my classes.

This program has been so instrumental in my study abroad experience. The directors for the program were so readily available to help us make this experience the best we could have. They genuinely care so much for each individual in the program, and I'm so glad out of all the programs I considered, I chose this one. I was lucky enough to find myself surrounded by the company of such great people for the past semester. They made it incredibly easy to explore this city and immerse ourself in the culture, gave suggestions on our other travels, and made sure we focused on our studies as well. They gave us support but also enough room to learn how to be independent and figure things out for ourselves. SO lucky to have this program and to have met the people I have through it! Feel like I've gained a second family.

I studied abroad in Florence, Italy with SAI Programs. I was there for 6 weeks, and wish I could have stayed even longer. I truly had the best experience I could have ever asked for. I has one class Monday-Thursday, and was able to travel every weekend with my friends and roommates. I went to 13 different cities in Italy and was able to see some of the most beautiful sites I have ever seen. SAI was always available to help us with anything class related, trip planning, safety issues, or just about anything that you can think of. I decided to study abroad and immerse myself in a different culture and I did not regret any second of it. Being able to meet new people, see new things, and experience once in a lifetime things is not something you come by everyday, so I encourage anyone thinking about studying abroad to just do it.

SAI gave me a semester I will never forget! I was able to see the world and experience so many new things while also getting college credit towards my major and minor. The people at SAI made me feel so welcomed and safe while being so far from home and my family. I am a major home body, so it was difficult leaving home to travel so far away for a full semester, but SAI made everything so easy and fun, I forgot I was so far away! They also paired me up with roommates that I still keep in touch with to this day, and plan on being lifetime friends with them. If I ever needed and type of help, advice, dinner suggestions, the people at SAI were more than happy to help in any way that they could. My experience would not have been the same without SAI.

Studying abroad can be a very intimidating experience - especially in a country where you are not fluent in the language - but SAI was always there to help me. Right when I arrived, they were here to welcome me and help me take care of things like getting my metro card and figure out orientation details for the American University of Paris. Jennifer from SAI has helped me with so much, from negotiating a double-charge on my credit card, to helping me find a missing package. I didn't know anyone in Paris before studying abroad, so having a place that I could turn to when I needed help was so important. The American University of Paris is a small university with a small international (mostly American) community, so it's hard to actually immerse yourself in France's culture. The academic offerings are also limited, especially for STEM majors. However, AUP hosts a lot of community events, and of course there's so much to do in Paris that you'll never be bored. This program was truly incredible because while there is someone here who has your back, you also get to learn and experience so much for yourself. I would recommend SAI to absolutely everyone. AUP has some issues but overall is a great study abroad experience for Americans looking to go out of their comfort zone while still interacting with other Americans. I have loved every minute of my semester here and am so glad I chose to come here.

It would be an understatement to say that I was nervous before leaving to go study in Rome for four months. However, through SAI, my worries went away shortly after arriving. Everything with SAI was incredibly organized and well planned out, from getting picked up from the airport, to all the planned activities and experiences throughout the semester. The onsite coordinators were always available and willing to help us with anything throughout my four months abroad, they were so caring and full of great suggestions. Additionally, the apartment that I stayed in through SAI was wonderful, so spacious and in a great location. During my semester abroad I learned a ton about myself and became so much more independent and confident. I had so many new and incredible experiences and I made so many new lifelong friends. These four months in Rome were some of the best of my life and I am so glad I decided to study through SAI. Studying in Rome through SAI was one of the best decisions I ever made for myself.

I studied abroad with SAI in Milan at Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore for Spring 2017. Milan was the absolute most amazing city to study abroad in, and by going through SAI I was provided with on the ground support and cultural immersion activities that I would not have gotten from anyone else. Their student support is truly unmatched. Milan is such an interesting and unique Italian city, and I was able to discover parts of it through SAI activities or off of the recommendation of my program coordinator that I wouldn't have known or found on my own. The courses I took at Cattolica focused on the business side of fashion, which adds a unique part to my resume that I would not have been able to get at my home university. I loved that all of my professors were professionals in their field, which also meant that they had colleagues and professional friends that were able to come and speak with our class. We also did multiple field studies in all of my courses, so I got to attend things such as Fashion Week and be an audience member in the tapping of a very popular talk show. While you are studying abroad, they have high standards and do not want you to be there just to goof off. I absolutely loved the educational experience I was provided at Cattolica. Beginning to end, SAI provided me with so much support that nothing was confusing or hard, and everything went super smoothly. Two of my courses counted for my major credits and the others came back as general elective credits very smoothly.

While studying abroad in Barcelona, I had the time of my life! Before this, I had only been out of the country once. I wasn’t really sure what to expect but the whole experience turned out to be an awesome adventure. I was able to travel across Europe, explore cool new places in Barcelona, and best of all, gain a sense of independence. Studying abroad through SAI changed my life, and I can’t wait for the opportunity some day to be able to travel again!

I loved studying abroad in Florence because I learned something new everyday. Whether it be about myself or the new culture I was surrounding myself with. SAI was amazing from the beginning. Constantly reaching out with any questions I may had and pre-departure routines. Once I arrived they were quick to give me a warm welcome at the airport. From there my experience heightened. SAI had constant events they hosted from dinners to going to museums and hikes. I tried to be apart of the SAI community as much as I could during my abroad experience because I loved how much they taught me through all the fun things we did. I was able to get closer to other students and the SAI community through these events. SAI was with me every step of the way and made my abroad experience come with ease.

My experience abroad taught me a lot about myself and other cultures. If I studied abroad again I would do it through SAI because they made me feel comfortable about everything through out the entire process and I got to know Sandrine and Leticia well and they really made my experience more enjoyable than it already was.

Right before I left home to study abroad, I was a little reluctant and nervous about moving to a completely different country where I knew no one. But once I got to Milan, I felt right at home. SAI helped so much with the transition period and my study abroad coordinator, Alicia was the best. The first day I moved into my apartment, I actually ended up getting my bag stolen along with all my money and identification cards. Alicia literally saved me that day and made sure I was okay and that I had money and everything until I could get some of it replaced. She also helped the rest of the semester go way smoother and I still keep in touch with her today. The roommates I had were also amazing - which was also something I was nervous about at the start. But we're all still super close and are planning a reunion soon to see each other. My school program at Cattolica was also fantastic - I actually ended up staying longer to attend summer courses because I found the classes so interesting and wanted to stay in Milano a little longer...which brings me to my final thought - Milan is the best city in the world and everyone should definitely study abroad there if they get the chance!

I studied abroad for a full semester in Florence, Italy through the SAI program. I could not have asked for a better semester. I learned so much about art, culture and myself through this experience and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. I got the oppurtunity to travel around Europe and go to places I might have never seen if it wasn't for studying abroad. SAI was with me every step of the way and allowed me to make the most out of my semester and helped me with anything I needed. They helped me feel at home and safe while half way across the globe from my family and friends. I broke my foot while abroad and they were there to help me with all of my questions and concerns. They have been through it all themselves, so they know exactly what you are going through.

SAI made my time abroad as great as it could be. The transition into Italian culture was not as harsh as I envisioned it to be. The program also set up great activities that helped us interact with other students, while also exposing us to the daily life of the locals. I had an amazing apartment and made some of my best friends till this day through my housing assignment. SAI has influenced me to continue to look for opportunities abroad- something I had never considered prior to this experience.

Before my program, I could never have imagined how beneficial my courses abroad would be. I took a cross-cultural management and a Spanish class and they were incredible. Both were very engaging, interactive, and I learned more than I ever thought I would. Sandrine and Leticia were my program directors in Barcelona and they are the reason my experience was as incredible as it was. They were so supportive and really interested in how our stay was going. We had numerous activities with just our group and they made sure that we all bonded and became a family before we left. I gained a new appreciation for the Spanish people and culture. I also learned a lot about Europe in general through my travels. It was more than worthwhile.

I think two very important factors while studying abroad is to have fun (the time of your life) all while remaining safe. SAI was always there for us. I felt very comfortable with the ladies in Barcelona that catered to us. They were there for us for every aspect, we could ask them anything and they always had our best interest in mind. I am so happy I chose SAI and couldn't imagine going through a different program. I loved how small we were compared to other programs and the friendships I made.

I spend fall of 2017 studying abroad at Florence University of the Arts with SAI. From the housing to the education everything was top notch. I can't say enough good things about the SAI staff. Their ability to help at any time, make me feel at home and encourage me to step outside my comfort zone is something I will always be thankful for. They also offered their students weekend trips throughout Italy. This was a great way to explore more with guides who could give facts and information as the trip progressed. In addition to all of this, they had an office in town that was open for people to pop in with questions, concerns or even just to pick up some coffee and a snack. Thank you SAI for providing me with the best study abroad experience in my favorite home away from home: Florence, Italy.

SAI provides amazing cultural and educational experiences for study abroad students across the globe. I was nervous about traveling to a foreign country alone and being out of my element. Fortunately, the SAI program was always there for me and was a safety net for my abroad experience. Prior to my travels, SAI was always there to answer any of my questions and helped properly prepare me to successfully travel to Italy. When I was abroad, SAI offered so many opportunities that I took advantage of such as day trips and cooking classes. My time abroad would not have been the same without SAI and I am so happy and pleased with my choice to study abroad through SAI.

Everything about my abroad experience was dynamic. It was also so exciting and full of change. Being a person who does not take well to change, I can honestly say that going abroad could have been one of the best things for me. It allowed me to be independent for a good amount of time while also being involved with a different and fun-loving community. SAI truly became my family while abroad. I loved the events that they hosted because they not only allowed me to make more connections with my piers, but allowed me to get a better understanding of my host country. SAI was very on top of everything which also made me feel safe. Their were regular room check ins ad they were always available for any questions that I had, even if it was where I should go to dinner next. I became very close with the team members at SAI and still talk to them and thank them for the wonderful experience that I had while abroad.

Studying abroad will forever be one of my most treasured moments. Of course, it was a couple months worth of moments, but every single one of them was entirely worth it. To get the chance to live in another country and entirely immerse yourself in strange new surroundings is not something everyone can do. Having never been out of the country before I was able not only live in Florence, Italy but visit six other countries in my time abroad! The program helped so much in wanting the students to get out there and travel and see not only the popular countries but to visit the smaller towns and cities around where you might be staying. To see more of the local culture in your country as well as what you have been longing to see in other places.

Study abroad through SAI Programs was the best decision I could have made. They were so kind and helpful picking classes and answering any questions I had. They were so enjoyable to be around and I frequently visited the office to talk with them and hear more about the Italian culture. I took 5 classes abroad and each one of them was interesting and helped me understand the culture and my major more. I loved being in Florence and I could not be happier with the location I lived in. It was the best experience of my entire life and I would do it all again if I could. SAI Programs made my experience even better by providing cooking classes, bookmaking classes, Soccer games, day trips, and weekend trips. They really made my time abroad the best it could have been.

I loved studying abroad with SAI. They were always so quick and helpful with answering any questions, whether they be about the program itself, your host city, or helping you plan travel! The included excursions with the program helped set SAI apart. They were so fun and always filled with incredible learning opportunities.

I could not imagine studying abroad through any program besides SAI. The administrative staff led us to cultural immersion quicker than we could have done ourselves and the accommodations provided were like something out of a dream. My apartment was centrally located on a popular street near the city center. Florence University of the Arts (FUA) taught me how to love school again. I learned things that were applicable to my major that were not offered at my home university. I learned so much academically and personally though this institution. I can now say that I appreciate the simple lifestyle that is offered in Italy. I have taken back with me the ability to understand other cultures and compare that to what I have seen my whole life in the states. I have learned how to budget and be flexible through unexpected travel expenses. Most importantly, this program taught me how to pursue an international mindset and encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone to learn.

SAI made going abroad really wonderful. So much was included in the program cost such as health insurance, housing, tuition, and airport transportation. This alleviated a lot of stress and additional costs. My favorite thing about SAI programs, which sets them aside from other programs, was all of the included activities such as a weekend trip, cooking classes, futbal games, and so much more. SAI was wonderful answering any questions I had during the study abroad process and I would highly recommend!

Studying abroad in Florence, Italy has been one of the most amazing experiences I have had. I gained a whole new perspective on the world. Immersing yourself within a different culture is one of the most beneficial things you can do. You get exposed to a different language, cuisine, and way of life. I walked away from my study abroad experience having such a high appreciation for different cultures. I hope I get to continue traveling to new places and enriching myself in different cultures.

I loved studying abroad in Rome, Italy! Not only was I able to travel the rest of Europe, but I was immersed in the Italian culture in a way that resulted in me feeling like Rome is my second home. I am already making plans to go back; I have even considered applying to John Cabot for graduate school. While studying abroad was fun and amazing, it was also really difficult--in a good way. Never have I felt so alone and independent as I did while living abroad in a different country. It forced me to grow up and helped me understand who I want to be as a human in this great, big world. I wouldn't change anything about my experience abroad! If you are on the fence about studying abroad, I'd say: Go for it.

Studying abroad in Siracusa, Sicily was unlike any of the other three study abroad experiences I have had. Siracusa (or Syracuse in English) is a 2,700 year-old city located in the southeast corner of the island of Sicily and it boasts amazing history, cuisine, culture, and more. I would highly recommend students to consider this program because there is not a better place to be in the summer than studying on an island in the Mediterranean surrounded by so many locals, ancient ruins, great weather and food. The classes I took were so interesting and we went on really unique field trips where we actually got to see, touch, smell, and experience the things we were learning about as opposed to sitting in a lecture every day. Outside of the classroom, I found it incredibly easy to mingle with locals, practice the language, and immerse myself in Sicilian culture. Prior to studying abroad in Sicily, I had never left the United States. SAI made my experience so easy that I decided to study abroad with them two more times in Florence and Sorrento because when I came home from Sicily I thought to myself, "I just had the most incredible personal and academic experience of my life and SAI made it so easy- I need to do it again"!

I had a really great semester studying abroad with SAI in Barcelona. I felt as though I could always contact all of SAI’s staff with any questions I had, and all of the excursions and events that were planned were well done. Barcelona in itself was an amazing city to study abroad in for the semester. There was always something new to see or do. Additionally, my classes at UAB were interesting and I enjoyed them. Overall, a great experience.

I absolutely loved studying abroad through SAI at UAB. I studied business and looked forward to class everyday. I took 2 very thorough and in-depth business classes as well as 3 cultural immersion classes featuring many field trips and guest speakers. SAI did an excellent job of keeping me informed on all events going on in Barcelona every week through a newsletter, answered any questions in a timely manner before I even got to Barcelona, and has provided an incredible amount of support constantly throughout the semester. I am proud to say that SAI was the best possible program. Many big programs are more expensive, do not offer as many excursions, and you build an actual relationship with the staff instead of being "just a number" with the big programs. I highly recommend studying at UAB with SAI!!!

When I first arrived in Paris, I was so timid, nervous, and unsure about what I had gotten myself into. However, with the help of the SAI office, and the magnetism of the city, I soon realized that these were going to be some of the best months of my life. Studying abroad can be scary, especially in such a large city surrounded by French speakers, but I have learned so much about the world and about myself. SAI does an amazing job of balancing planned activities so that you can have those group experiences and a sort of comfort zone, but so that you also have to explore on your own and figure some things out for yourself. A lot of business students at my home university typically do not go abroad, but studying business in an international environment has been such a learning experience as well. Today, any business that you do will be international to some degree, and there is no better way to learn to navigate that landscape than going abroad. At the beginning of this experience, I was the student wanting to immediately go home, but I can tell you now after sticking it out that I recommend this experience to anyone and everyone! 10/10 would recommend SAI!!!!

Studying abroad with SAI was the best decision I've ever made. I was able to travel to 12 countries during the semester and made great friends from all over the United States. SAI was very helpful throughout the whole process of preparing for the semester and returning back to the U.S. If I could study abroad again I would do it in a heartbeat and I would choose SAI again.

Studying abroad, anywhere, is often very scary. The first day we were dropped off at our apartment with no exact direction. This was absolutely terrifying for me. After getting to know the neighborhood and Trastevere/Rome, the SAI office started to become a second home or place to go for me to feel comfortable in. The SAI office was always there when I just wanted to talk, had questions about study abroad, questions about where I should visit the next weekend, or seeking advise for the future. I completed the SAI Global Leadership Program, which allowed me to enrich in the Italian culture more and get to know more locals. Also, I also had to take a class relevant to Global studies. The weekly meetings at SAI were very helpful and allowed me to understand more of what global leadership means and how each of us can do it. I am truly thankful there was a program like SAI to make Rome more of a home while I was there.

Choosing to study abroad in Rome, Italy was the best decision I could have ever made. It was an experience unlike any other and I fell in love with the city of Rome. I would absolutely recommend studying abroad to anyone. I was gone for a 5 week summer term and stayed an additional 3 weeks after. Looking back, I wish I would have studied for 10 weeks because it goes by so fast and I never felt like I was there for too long. There is so much to see in Rome alone and in other places around you. Being able to immerse yourself in another culture is such an amazing experience and you become so familiar with the places around you. My study abroad experience is something that I will never forget and has me constantly dreaming of when I will be back in Italy!

I would recommend this program for sure. I ultimately chose it because my university did not have an exchange program with a school in Milan, but SAI did. I specifically wanted to go to Milan because I am studying apparel and textiles and Italian design is highly admired. SAI Programs provided me with help during the pre-departure process, in-country process, and any questions I may have had upon returning. The staff is incredible, especially on-site in Milan, and everyone I was communicating with through e-mail. They all have quick response time and helpful information. I never felt confused when working with the staff. My experience in Milan was amazing, the only thing I have to say is the level of academics was a little lower than I am used to, which was fine, because I felt more relaxed not having to worry about my studies as much. However, I loved how all my instructors were actually industry-professionals and had worked in the field. I am now connected to them on LinkedIn and am very thankful to SAI for helping me make these important connections. All my classes successfully transferred over as professional electives, so it worked out. I liked how SAI provided excursions with the other students who were traveling with SAI. I made so many lifelong friends that I continue to keep in touch with. I wanted to continue being a part of the SAI family after my abroad experience, so I became an SAI Ambassador. I get to spread the word about how awesome SAI is.

My study abroad experience was very different than my peers. My mother was born in Italy and came to America when she was four years old, but the Italian culture has always stuck within my family. I was able to meet so many people where I created memories with people who became life-long friends. I was also able to learn more about heritage and meet family members along the way. Studying abroad was an amazing experience where I grew as an individual. I became more independent, brave, adaptable to new situations and cultural differences. I recommend SAI Programs because they are always there to help, but they give you the independence and learning experience every student should have.

I am an Art major, and Italy was the perfect place to study abroad for the arts. They are one of the only programs that offer these classes and they even offer scholarships. (one of which I received) The classes were really awesome! They were entry level so most art classes took you back to the basics. The homework load was managable, and if a teacher realized it was becoming too much they would cut back. The school was open for great hours and were responsive to emails. My two favorite classes were Chemistry in the Arts and Intro to Art History. I love the chem class because it was so fascinating. It was all about the science behind art, mostly painting. The AH class was great because we went on a lot of field trips to the museums so I got to see all the art museums in florence with my teacher as a tour guide and didn't have to pay insane prices. SAI was very helpful. They really wanted you to have a healthy, positive, and enriching experience. They were always on top of apartment issues and available to help with mental support. My favorite part about their offerings was their included trips and excursions. I got to take cooking classes, go on a bike tour in tuscany, and go on a weekend trip to islands off the coast of Italy. I really loved my location and apartment. I was close to Santa Croce which was just a 3 minute walk to class and 2 minute walk to the SAI office. We have some issues with water while we were there. The water heater rarely worked, but you're lucky to get hot water at all in Italy. My roommate and I were always on a search for new and great food places around town! We found some amazing places. There are a TON of tourist traps and bad places around, but SAI will give you some tips and tricks to determine the difference. By the end I felt integrated for the most part, but I wish I was there longer! The best feeling is when a tourist walks up to you and asks if you speak english, assuming you're a local. I did not have any health issues while in Italy, but one of my roommates did. She had to go to the hospital several times and SAI was always there to help. I probably spent about $80 or less every week. GO TO THE GROCERY STORE. I would spend about 20 -30 euro on groceries a week. Coffee was a must every morning for 2.50 euro. I would go out a few nights to eat with my roommate, and of course, I would splurge on some souvenirs every so often. I also kept all of my receipts and documented my spending every month. Get duo lingo. Talk to italians in italian. They are willing to be patient for you. Its my biggest regret, not learning the language. It was worthwhile. I learned how to live on my own for the first time. I went as a sophomore and my freshman year I lived at home. I loved the culture of living. Hang drying clothes, hand washing dishes, walking everywhere!

Studying abroad in Rome, Italy through SAI was one of the best experiences in my life. I was able to completely immerse myself in the local Italian cultural in the beautiful area of Trastevere, with open access to the entire city to travel through. SAI put me in the perfect position to expand my mindset and step out of my comfort zone to learn a little more each day.

I spent Spring 2017 studying abroad in Florence, Italy- the land of pasta, gelato, rich with culture and my favorite city in the world! My decision to study abroad was one of the boldest and life changing experiences of my life. SAI gave me more than the experience of travel for a semester; it gave me perspective that I will carry forever. My study abroad experience in Florence and SAI gave me the opportunity to take the reins on my own journey and experience a once and a lifetime opportunity of travel and learning- something that I could never learn from a textbook or lecture. Going abroad to another part of the world is very nerve-racking, but I learned to embrace this adventure and realize its okay to move away from what I am familiar with.

If you are thinking about spending a semester or two abroad, I would highly recommend going through SAI! The best way I can describe SAI is they will be like your big brother or sister when it comes to traveling. They guided me through all the documentation and made sure to provide plenty of opportunities once I was in Italy to get immersed in the culture. They offered cooking classes, tours, and even a free excursion trip!

My study abroad experience in Barcelona was great. I hiked Montjuic by myself in the middle of a storm, saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child play on my birthday, and had a picnic and drank wine on the Bunkers that overlooked all of Barcelona. Barcelona is a safe, cheap party city. The academics at my school were also really good, and I enjoyed my classes and my professors were both really amazing. My Spanish also greatly improved. However, because I was surrounded mostly by Americans I had to really make an effort to improve my Spanish.

I was pleasantly surprised with how efficient SAI was! The time abroad was made much easier and simplified by SAI's ability to always be reliable and handle any issue while abroad. I would definitely recommend going abroad through SAI to anyone planning on going abroad! I do not think there was any way they could have made the process much simpler or easier! There are very knowledgeable people working with SAI and it was so reassuring when first arriving in a new country! Thanks to SAI I had minimal issues while abroad when it came to housing etc. Also, the housing that I got was fantastic, spacious and quite impressive in comparison to what others abroad said they stayed in! Thank you SAI!

I absolutely loved studying abroad in Italy with SAI Programs. They were so helpful when I was preparing to leave and also while I was in Florence. I couldn't be happier with my experience abroad and there's nothing that I would change.

At John Cabot in Rome, I lived in an adorable neighborhood apartment, surrounded by Italian people and immersed in the Italian culture. SAI made me feel safe and comfortable, and made my experience easy, and authentic. I loved every second!

This program was everything I wanted and more! I took classes from wine tasting to Business classes for my major. I got to travel around Tuscany with my classes wine tasting, and visit restaurants around Florence. The on-site support was amazing, along with the orientation advise as well. I would choose this program all over again it I could.

Whenever I had a question or concern with my year abroad in Rome, the SAI workers were always the first people I went to. They helped to make sure all my concerns were addressed and helped to deal with my home school as well.

Studying abroad was an amazing experience. I fell absolutely in love with Florence and visited some jaw-droppingly beautiful places. I didn't know I wanted to study abroad for sure until about two days or so before application deadlines. I scrambled to get everything together and emailed SAI about a hundred times with questions and confirmations about my app. They were the most patient and helpful staff I have ever worked with. Overseas, they were just as accommodating while I adjusted to new life in another country. I really appreciate the hard work they put in to make students feel cared for and safe. I highly recommend them!

I fell in love with the city of Barcelona and SAI helped make my experience so much more comfortable. My program always encouraged me to try new things and discover as much about the place as I could and it really helped make a difference in my time abroad. I had a lot of friends also studying in Barcelona that went with other programs. After hearing about their experiences and opportunities available from their programs, I can confidently say that SAI is a special program and offers a lot more than other programs.

I would say my study abroad experience was unlike many other peoples, I quickly became friends with degree seekers at the university which furthered my cultural immersion in Rome but also introduced me to people from all around the world. By the end of the year I not only spoke Italian fairly well but also had formed life long friendships with a multitude of people from many countries. John Cabot is a very international school with a good ratio of study abroad to degree seekers, the location of the University and the SAI housing and apartments was very central and in one of the most beautiful areas of Rome. SAI also provided a multitude of program activities such as cooking classes, city tours and a 3 day excursion all costs included !!!! Choosing Rome and John Cabot as my study abroad destination was one of the best decisions I have ever made, it was one year of living the true Italian bella vita and I wouldn't have traded it for any other experience.

SAI is incredibly put together! Had an amazing experience with them from pre-departure days all the way through till the end. I would recommend them to anyone wanting to study abroad in a heart beat. Mireia, the program coordinator for Barcelona, is more than perfect for her position. She is impossible not to love, and without her, I definitely wouldn't have had the amazing time that I did. As for Elisava, I think it was a great school that helped me view design in a completely different way than I was used to. But I also feel Elisava could have done a much better job with their criteria in some classes, and the teachers they chose to teach them.

This entire semester was better than I had expected. Our program coordinator was so helpful and loved getting to know every one of us. The only thing I wish was different was the level of difficulty at Elisava. I do not think I learned as much as I would have liked. But overall, a great experience!

My experience with SAI Florence and Florence University of the Arts was a truly phenomenal and life-changing time in my life. Going abroad truly opened my eyes to so many new things I could do in the world and made me more confident in doing so. SAI was an amazing program to go with and I feel lucky to have been able to have them coach me through living abroad. My program directors were extremely helpful and informative and always available to talk. They provided us with amazing apartments, in the cutest neighbourhoods in Florence, that were only a ten-minute walk from the school's main campus! I also really enjoyed Florence as a city and felt it was a great place to learn to truly live on my own devices, and it allowed me to learn so much about myself that I don't think I would have learned otherwise. Overall, I would definitely recommend this program to anyone looking to study abroad, and especially if you are looking to study abroad in Italy!

SAI was the best program for me! I had the best on-staff advisors who were always helpful, friendly, and energetic, which really made the program so enjoyable. There was plenty of excursions or day events that were offered that I regularly attended and were always so much fun. Without these events, I don't think I would have seen much of Rome or Italy. John Cabot University was a smaller school so the classrooms were smaller which was different for me, but it was a better way to get to know my peers and professors. I loved my housing situation because I was immersed with the locals and other SAI students. I lived in an apartment with other SAI students, but the apartment complex was filled with other Italian locals. It was safe and only a 15 minute walk from JCU. I would recommend SAI to any students who are looking to study abroad. I met some of my best friends when studying abroad and traveled to so many other European countries. This was all possible because SAI influenced me and gave me the opportunity to study in Rome.

Last summer, I studied abroad at Florence University of the Arts through SAI Programs. I also took Cultural Introduction to Italy—a week of educational exploration from Rome up through Tuscany—which I cannot recommend enough. My experience was captivating. I'd never been overseas before, so everything, from check-in at the airport and on, was new to me. I studied in Italy for a month, and it was a month of being completely enveloped in newness -- that feeling alone was enough to keep my eyes wide and lungs aghast. When I got my bearings, I was able to pause, take a breath, and LIVE in Florence. And through that living I gained confidence by, among other things, practicing a new language; I eliminated preconceived notions and gained true, intimate knowledge about Italian cultures; I gained a better understanding of myself, of what I truly enjoy and the feelings I strive for; I gained a curiosity and drive that I kept after my flight home. I owe a lot to SAI and FUA for making these personal and academic gains possible—for giving me the structure and resources to get my bearings, the freedom to live. SAI prepared me incredibly well—before I left for Florence, they encouraged me through the pre-departure process, made sure no boxes were left unchecked. When I arrived, they were there to greet me and tell me where I could find them. FUA provided unique education, melding immersion and academics and encouraging us to learn about Florence in our free time. We could live and explore Florence with a sense of security, know SAI and FUA were there to help. I obviously recommend this program. Something you should know going in, however: things, even with the English-speaking FUA, will be done the Italian way. Eager to experience a new culture as you might be, this will still be jarring, and sometimes downright frustrating, at first. The punctuality of service, for example, might not be what you’re used to in America. But, remember they’ve been doing things their way for a while, and they will make sure you're fully helped. If things seem to be moving slow, be intrigued by the cultural difference and know you will be taken care of, and well. Be smart, be safe, and live.

SAI was the most amazing experience for me and my friends. We go to the University of Florida and were the pioneers for SAI specifically with UPF and we could not be happier. The apartment we were assigned to was perfect, immersed in the real Barcelona culture while also being 10 minutes away from Sagrada Familia. UPF was an outstanding school with fantastic and passionate teachers who taught us alongside with UPF students, UCLA students and even Cambridge students. We made so many new friends in such a fun yet academic environment. Miraeia, our program director, was the most welcoming and kind woman that I have had the pleasure to meet. I wish I could relive that entire summer again. I will surely be returning to Barcelona soon.

SAI provided me with the experience of a lifetime! The academics at John Cabot were once in a lifetime; they offer many unique classes you cannot take anywhere else, including an on-site history class, neighborhoods of Rome, and so many more! I learned a new language and made friends of a lifetime. Volunteer opportunities are highly encouraged and I had the opportunity to volunteer at the local Refugee Center with other John Cabot University students. The onsite support was incredible and the excursions were indescribable. If you ever have any questions, your onsite staff are readily available with insider information! Studying abroad with SAI was by far one of the best decisions I could have made! The housing options were very nice. I lived in the center of Rome 5 minutes from John Cabot, surrounded by amazing smells and history around every corner. Each semester I shared a room with one other student in an apartment with 4 or 6 students total. There were two bathrooms, which was greatly appreciated, a homely kitchen, and a lively living room- a place to call home. Best food ever. Hands down. Without a doubt. You are in Italy- known for its pasta, pizza, and gelato. You cannot go wrong. Definitely enjoy the authentic gelato while you can! 10/10 I had the opportunity to have Italian neighbors, classes with international students from all over the world and on site classes that taught me the history of ancient Rome. Volunteer opportunities also added a sense of belonging. I felt completely safe and at ease the entire year while abroad. The location is incredible and I never once worried about my safety, even lost at 5 in the morning. Most people know English and it can be a fun experience to get a little lost. Be aware of your surroundings and be responsible but I never once felt unsafe. I never had any health issues while abroad but there are pharmacies with English speaking doctors and the onsite staff can always direct you in the right direction. You are also provided with health insurance through SAI, which helps put your mind at ease. SAI was the best possible option for me in the best city in the world! (No, I'm not biased ;) Words cannot describe the amazing experience I had, in Rome, at John Cabot University, and with SAI! I gained a sense of self-worth and understanding while abroad. I am not afraid to go out of my comfort zone and I owe everything to this incredible experience.

Studying abroad with SAI was one of the best experiences I have had during my time in college. I studied at Florence University of the Arts to earn 6 credits. I took two classes during my three weeks in Florence in Italian and Street Photography. This program is special in the fact that it provides students with a terrific staff for support while giving them the freedom to explore and experience the culture on their own as well. In addition, each class has a corresponding field trip for out-of-the-classroom learning that enriches the experience for each student.

My experience with SAI and UAL has been life changing. I was able to find confidence in myself and explore new places, people, and things. My host institution was incredibly involved and hands on. I learned skills such as international communication and I made lifelong friendships with other members of my program.

My experience studying abroad in Rome is one I would never trade for anything. I had such an amazing semester with memories I will always hold close to my heart. SAI made my transition from the United States to Rome very easy and smooth. They were very accessible and were a great support system to have while living 6,000 miles away from home. I highly recommend this program to any prospective students.

The program that SAI provided while abroad in Florence Italy, could not have been more amazing. They were with you through everything. From the beginning SAI made sure that you were gathering all the materials that you needed to begin your adventure abroad. They provided more than enough information on how to obtain it all as well as they were there to answer any questions. SAI was more than welcoming when I landed in Florence. They had shuttles there to pick us up from the airport and drop us off at our apartments throughout the city. SAI planned all these excursions and different activities that we could participate in. We took trips to Tuscany and Maremma as well as participated in a book making class. We went on a bike hike through Tuscany too. SAI was there for everything that you would need and I would not have had the experience I did without SAI.

My time abroad was everything that I dreamed of and more. I was able to experience the real Italian culture for four months. In the beginning stages of planning my time abroad it was very overwhelming but once I found that SAI was the program that was right for me, the planning was simple. They gave pre-departure information and information for myself and my family while I was abroad. They made the planning process a lot less stressful. While I was abroad SAI was helpful and made the experience that much more fun. They had activities planned for the students to attend if they chose to. I took advantage of all of the events. One of the events included an Italian soccer game. They made my experience that much more interesting and exciting. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I would change nothing!

Studying abroad was truly the best experience of my life. From immersing myself into the culture of Rome, to being able to easily (and cheaply!) travel all around Europe, and to finding some of my best friends, I couldn't have asked for a better experience. I was so happy to have the program coordinators of SAI to help me deal with day to day questions and overall experience. From helping me call a cab to go to the airport, to assisting in anything at any time of the day, I knew I could always count on them.

I studied abroad in the fall of 2015 through SAI in Florence, Italy. It was absolutely a once in a lifetime experience. SAI helped me every step of the way from settling in, to taking us on trips across Italy. If I had any problems abroad the SAI Florence staff of Regan, Pietro, and Alessandra were there for anything I needed. Also, in Florence I participated in the SAI Global Leadership Program. In that program I was able to volunteer all over florence with organizations such as the Tuscan Cancer Society and UNICEF. SAI gave me the opportunity to gain a different and better experience than the average abroad student in Florence. I am extremely grateful I was able to study abroad with SAI, I would recommend them 10 times out of 10.

My semester abroad with SAI programs was one filled with happiness, adventure, great food, and friendly people. The SAI staff was so helpful and welcoming and made me feel comfortable to ask questions any time I needed help. The extra curricular programs they held were a good way to meet people and immerse yourself in the amazing Italian culture.

I had the most amazing time of my life studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain. It was such an amazing experience and I would go again in a hear beat. I'm so glad I chose SAI as my provider because they were so helpful in the beginning of my process until the end of my time abroad. Any questions I had they were always quick to answer, and my SAI on-site advisor was just as fantastic. She was loved by our entire group! She was so knowledgeable about Spain, where we should and should not vacation, and was on-call 24/7 whenever we needed her! I loved everything about Barcelona, my classes, living experience, and the friendships i gained. I would recommend studying abroad with SAI to anyone, it was an experience I'll never forget and SAI made it happen!

SAI made the entire study abroad experience so easy! They were there for all of us every step of the way; from pre-departure, to our stay there, and to our departure. From the second we landed at the airport, they were there to help. I really appreciated that they picked us up from the airport and showed us where all the nearby train stations were in relation to our flat. SAI took us on day/weekend excursions, which really immersed us in the culture. I really enjoyed those because we did things that I may not have had the chance to do otherwise. I loved it so much, I wish I could do it all again! SAI is definitely my first recommendation when it comes to studying abroad.

My study abroad experience with SAI was more than exceptional! Previous to this experience, I had never been abroad before, but SAI made me feel completely comfortable with taking this leap. The staff was so friendly and welcoming and they made themselves completely available to anything I needed. They provided fun activities for us like cooking classes and food and wine pairings! The housing circumstances exceeded my expectations, it was so nice! We had a full Kitchen, a living area, and the location was on point. Overall, SAI provided me with the absolute best study abroad experience I could have asked for. If I were to go back I would do it all over again through SAI!

The experience overall was very satisfying. I enjoyed the program and the living locations organized for me. I also enjoyed the activities organized by the program such as the excursions and cooking classes. I feel like i have significantly impacted my outlook on my personal life as well as other cultures and places.

Sorrento, Italy is one of the most beautiful places I could ever hope to encounter, let alone live in for four whole months. The small size of the city makes it easy to become familiar with the locals and gives you the best excuse to practice your Italian. It is always easy to tell when you are coming back to Sorrento after a weekend of traveling, because Mount Vesuvius is always looming in the distance -- I highly suggest conquering Vesuvius on a hike. However, you don't need to travel far to have the best time. Sorrento is right on the coast, and it is very easy to spend every weekend admiring the beautiful views and visiting the neighboring cities. The courses offered at Sant'Anna Institute are one-of-a-kind, and many include educational (and very fun) day trips. Sorrento is even home to tons of different internships, and I highly recommend looking into them!

I studied abroad this past Spring Semester in Florence, Italy through SAI. I ultimately chose this program because they got their start in Italy--specifically Florence--so I knew they had experience and great connections with the city. Prior to my study abroad experience, I had never traveled outside the United States so I was very nervous and unsure of myself, but after a few weeks I began to grow more independent and confident in myself. This was especially true, living and studying in a country where English was not the primary language. You have to learn to do your research (especially when traveling in or outside your home country) in advance because you can't rely on the Internet and smart phones the same way you can here! This experience not only made me appreciate a new culture, but also my own and helped shed light on global issues and the different global perspectives regarding those issues. Lastly, it allowed me to travel to many different places in and outside of Italy giving me so many memories to last a life time!

Unlike my mother's concern, I never really worried too much about details about being abroad. I just knew when my plane was landing in Florence and the address of my new home. Luckily when I stepped off the plane SAI was there to greet me with a folder of information and even snacks! They arranged my transport to my apartment and made me feel comfortable before I even got out of the airport! That's when I knew I was in for the most amazing semester of my life. The apartment that myself and five other women lived at was GORGEOUS. It was a beautiful older building with art work on the ceilings!! Of course there were some problems since it was older, but the location could not be beat. I have so many memories in those rooms that I will never forget. The friendships I made are everlasting and the trips I participated in were priceless. While I loved being able to travel around Europe, some of my favorite trips are the ones that SAI planned within Italy. Italy has an incredible amount of adventures to offer, and I probably would have not known about many of them without help from SAI. Thanks to the concern of my mom and the details from SAI, I will never forget the culture, the relationships, the adjustments, and the everyday adventures.

Studying abroad in Florence was the highlight of my college career and one of the best decisions I have ever made. Our apartment was in a great location and sharing it with 7 roommates meant always having someone to get pizza or daily gelato with. SAI went out of their way several times to make sure that we were comfortable, whether it was providing whatever we needed for our apartment or just being a friendly face around town. If you want to eat the best food of your life, live minutes within some of the most famous art in the world, and have access to other countries only a train ride away I would definitely recommend studying in this beautiful city.

I would like to recommend this program to all students. A small program like this allows all students to immerse themselves in the Spanish culture, and get to know the rest of the students better. Additionally, the program coordinator is very helpful and available for questions pretty much at all times.

Studying abroad with SAI programs was definitely the best decision. All of SAI's staff were helpful in answering the many questions I had leading up to my departure to Barcelona. Once here, Mireia has been very helpful and kind, and made the transition to living in another country as smooth as possible! I enjoyed the number and variety of different excursions Mireia and SAI provided us. I also really appreciate the smaller size of SAI's program, which allowed me to connect with my study abroad classmates on a closer level. If I have a friend or family member decide to study abroad, SAI will without a doubt be the first program I recommend, and Barcelona the first program!

Studying at Elisava was a good experience but it was more time consuming than I anticipated. SAI does such of good job of communicating with the school. The learning is more project and independent based rather than a lecture.

I highly recommend this program to anyone who is looking for a true study abroad experience. The small group is conducive to building strong friendships with the other group members as well as the program instructor. Mireía is very attentive to the needs of everyone in the group and is highly knowledgeable about the city in all of it's intricacy. I feel like this program enabled me to enjoy and benefit from this semester to the fullest and although it is sad to leave Barcelona, with the help of Mireía and SAI Programs I will not look back on this experience with any regrets.

SAI is a great program to go abroad with! The only problem I can see, that is also with most other study abroad programs is that it is hard to meet locals and feel part of the community. Although, we had opportunities , such a volunteering at a school or language groups, it seemed like there could be more emphasis on learning the language.

SAI was the best program to go abroad with to Barcelona. Many other providers have groups with over 100 students, but SAI has a smaller group and it creates a much better experience. The classes are not too challenging but you learn so much outside of the classroom by living in a different country with a different culture. The staff was so supportive in any way needed and I can't think of a better program to go with!

Choosing to go abroad with SAI at Florence University of the Arts was absolutely amazing. SAI was everything I could have asked for in a program and more. Florence was hands down the most amazing city to live in for four months, and It will always have a place in my heart. SAI gave you all the support you need in foreign country and was there for you anytime. They provided awesome program excursions as a chance to not only meet new people, but also to learn more about Italian culture. I highly recommend this program to anyone who is thinking about going abroad. Florence is an amazing city that has a high rate of study abroad students, so the opportunities to meet people and feel comfortable are always there. Florence combined with SAI make the best combination!

I had an amazing time studying in Milan! I learned so much about myself and what I want out of life! I made lifelong friends and connections with my professors that will help when searching for jobs. Traveling helps you learn to respect other countries cultures as well as your own! I cannot wait until I have the opportunity to go abroad again!

My semester abroad was my first time traveling outside the U.S. I went by myself and it was the most fulfilling decision I could have made. The classes were unique and always interesting; very different from my home University. From the whole experience, I have gained confidence, exposure to one of my favorite cultures, and life long friendships. Thanks to SAI, they were very helpful throughout the whole process and the opportunities they offered us were endless.

SAI Programs created an irreplaceable educational and life experience in London. I studied at London College of Fashion, but SAI's connection with UAL will provide students with the best Fashion Education in the world. Study Fashion in one of the best cities in the world, learn about the global nature of fashion, and experience a new city and culture with a program that provides great housing, fun excursions, and 24/7 onsite assistance. Learn about yourself and about the world and study abroad with SAI.

I loved SAI Barcelona! It was a smaller program but I loved that because it really gave you the opportunity to get close with other people in the program and you did not experience any cliquey groups, etc. It was an awesome program that implemented the Spanish culture and made you feel at home. It was overall an amazing experience and I wouldn't chose another program.

My experience in Barcelona this semester with SAI was my best semester yet! I was able to learn and know all about Barcelona and Spain from my experiences and classes at UAB. SAI made the process of studying abroad so easy I would do it all over again if I could! Barcelona has so much to offer its impossible to ever get bored of it. I've made so many new friends this semester that leaving is going to be so hard, but I can't wait to come back to Barcelona one day and live it all over again! SAI helped everyone in our program feel comfortable in our new home and learn about the culture. I felt so safe my entire semester, it was so stress free! Go study abroad with SAI and especially in Barcelona because it was the best experience ever!

With my study abroad experience, I was able to interact with local Italian people, and feel fully immersed in Italian culture. My apartment was situated in a beautiful part of Florence, where I was away from the busy hustle and bustle of Florence and where tourists spent their time. My favorite part of Italy was getting fresh produce everyday and making a meal. The Italians know how to live.

I had an absolutely amazing semester in the beautiful city of Barcelona with SAI this past Spring semester. I not only had an amazing time exploring the beautiful city and other amazing places throughout Europe, but I also learned so much about myself and grew as an individual. All of SAI's staff was absolutely amazing throughout the entire application and pre-departure process as well as the credit transfer process after returning home. And I have to give a special shout to the program coordinator in Barcelona, Mireia, for being absolutely amazing and helpful throughout the entire semester. I am so thankful for the opportunity I had with SAI and the incredible city I was lucky enough to call home for 4 months.

It's pretty fitting that Barcelona and SAI Programs have the same tagline because both are amazing. I would not trade my experience for anything and every time I would choose to go with SAI. The company was very helpful for me and made this process as smooth as possible. The office is very accessible by email and phone and they are quick with handling concerns. Once abroad they take care of anything you would possible need, not to mention set you up with some pretty awesome living spaces. You have so many options with SAI and they make it easy fro you to decide how you want to study abroad. When on a SAI excursion we were welcomed by so many types of people and they were ready to teach us something new or show us the major sites in the area. Everything was hands on and truly inspiring. The program was small, but even then I was able to become very close with my study abroad crew. Even with a young program everything seemed to fall into place! Going abroad wakes up new emotions and feelings inside you and SAI Barcelona staff was there ready to make it all reality.

Before traveling abroad to Florence, Italy, I had not done a lot of research about the city. I googled Florence a few times and looked at the beautiful images that popped up and the Wikipedia description. I thought it would be a fit for me, and boy was I right! A lot of credit goes to SAI for making my stay there so welcoming, comforting, and overall amazing! The day of my arrival was a bit hectic. Sitting on a plane for about ten or so hours plus lack of sleep affects the body in strange ways. Once arriving at the Florence airport, SAI was there ready to greet all of the arrivals and provide us with our living information. My ride to my apartment building was the first time I was introduced to the craziness of Florence traffic. It seems as though traffic rules are nonexistent, yet somehow, miraculously, during my whole time in Florence I never witnessed an accident! SAI did an amazing job with living situations. My apartment was on the side of the River Arno opposite of the Duomo. We shared an apartment building with Florence locals, and interactions with them were always positive and cheerful. My roommates also studied abroad through SAI and attended the same university. It is really comforting traveling to Florence knowing that you will be living with other Americans who are in the exact same situation you're in. Throughout the semester, SAI offered a lot of trips and activities (such as an overnight trip to Milan and Como). They provide students with lots of different ways to experience and explore the Italian culture, and I would definitely recommend to do as many of these as you can! The courses I took at FUA were wonderful ways to explore different aspects of Italian culture. For my Food, Culture, and Society class, we learned about the history of food and the role it plays in the Italian lifestyle. During some classes we were able to walk to different markets and try different foods. We were also able to make our own in food labs! In my Exploration of Wine class, we learned about the delicate process of making wine and how unique it is to Italy specifically. In both of these classes, we took field trips, such as to wineries and Parmesan cheese factories. Overall, my trip to Florence was one of the best experiences I've had in my life so far. It allowed me to explore my Italian roots and to meet family members who live in Italy whom I've never met before. Studying abroad definitely has it's ups and downs, and sometimes it's difficult. But in the end, through the difficulties and hard times, I've grown from my experience abroad, and have learned things about myself that I don't think I would have if I didn't go to Florence. I made so many amazing memories that I know will last a lifetime.

My semester at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy was favorite semester in college. I studied abroad through SAI Programs. the SAI on-site staff was amazing. Jess and Jordan were always willing to help me when I needed help booking train tickets, finding restaurants, and planning trips. Jess also took me to the doctor when I became sick during my first few weeks in Rome. John Cabot University is a great university to take courses at because the class sizes are small which allows students to engage in great discussions. Overall, this experience was amazing. Living and learning (and eating!!!) in the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome was perfect and I cannot wait to be able to go back and explore the Eternal City again!

It sounds silly to say that I only have four months in Florence, Italy as that may seem like a long amount of time, but really, it was hardly enough time to be able to completely experience all the city has to offer. It's not only one of the most beautiful cities in Italy but as a history and culture that reaches across centuries. It was the home of some of the most amazing artists, architects, and dare I say geniuses of all time and continues to support all kinds of art. It wasn't just the city that made my experience abroad so amazing though, I had amazing classes, great roommates, found courage to explore the city on my own and felt safe while doing it and had the SAI staff by my side through it all. The classes I took included Florence Sketchbook, Everything Chocolate (the history and how to cook with chocolate), a beginners Italian Language class, and The History of the Italian Renaissance. I am not a history person normally but found that the history class became my favorite simply because we were learning about the city, buildings, and paintings that were in the city around me and the people who used to live there. I lived with two friends from my home university and two girls from two other American universities. We all became fast friends and ended up traveling most weekends together, cooking fantastic homemade family dinners, going out clubbing as a team, and generally doing just about everything together. They have become some of my closest friends. The nightlife in the city is hopping to say the least. There really is something for everyone. There are clubs where you can go dancing in large crowds to techno music, small bars where you can have quiet drinks with friends, and small private music performances where you can hang with locals. There were many nights my friends and I went "out on the town" and had a blast but there were also equally as many nights we stayed in and watched a movie with wine or went out for late night gelato and just walked the streets of the city, appreciating where we were. SAI Programs has so much to offer students and the best advice I can give is to take advantage of all they offer. They have tons of excursions and activities set up throughout your semester abroad including cooking classes (full meal- appetizer, main course, and dessert, that you get to make from scratch with help from profession chefs), biking tours in the Tuscan hills, weekend trips to Milan and Como and Rome, gallery openings, and so much more. SAI staff members also offer so much advise and support to students. You can go to their office whenever you want and chat with them when your homesick, have any sort of problem, or just want to chat. They're all so nice and genuinely want each student to have the very best time they possibly can. I recommend SAI Programs and Florence wholeheartedly as the best study abroad experience you could ever ask for!

SAI was my first choice from the start because of how helpful they were when I was thinking about studying abroad. They have lots of options for scholarships and internships, which I recommend that you all take advantage of!! I could write on and on about the experiences I gained and learned from studying abroad with SAI. It was worth every bit of hard work I put into it, and I highly recommend every student study abroad for at least one semester because you will learn more about yourself, what you want to do with your life, how to live in a completely different environment, getting out of your comfort zone, and I could go on and on! Studying abroad will help you professionally and I will definitely go with SAI again!!

Studying abroad in Florence with SAI was one of the best things I have ever done! The process before leaving was made significantly easier with the help of the SAI advisors and counselors, and they really assisted in preparing me for my adventure abroad! Arriving in Florence, the staff was very helpful in recommending fun activities to do, helping us with any issues in our lovely Italian apartment, and creating activities to do as a group! With SAI, I travelled to Milan and Lake Como, Siena, and San Gimignano, some of my favorite trips of the semester! I wouldn't trade my abroad experience for anything and I highly recommend taking advantage of all that SAI has to offer!

The Siena program was a wonderful way to become fully immersed in Italian culture. The city of Siena is the perfect size, big enough so there's plenty to do while small enough to not become overwhelming. My host family was so great, and I felt like a real part of their family. The program offered interesting classes and trips to different parts of Italy. Overall it was a wonderful way to really understand what it is to be an Italian.

Florence is an amazing city and it is full of Italian culture and history. It was so cool to walk through the same streets as such influential people. I traveled a lot in my time and I think that was really important to my study abroad experience. With that said it was really important to me to find a balance between traveling, studying, and exploring Florence. Overall my experience was amazing and I would highly recommend studying abroad to anyone!

With the help of SAI Programs, Rome quickly became my home away from home. From the application process, to applying, and obtaining a visa, SAI guided me every step of the way allowing me to push stress aside and get excited for my new journey. Once I arrived, I was introduced to my amazing apartment that made me feel like a true Italian and was offered an Italian Crash Course early on so that I could get by in this new country. Studying abroad is life changing and pushes you outside of your comfort zone like you would never believe. SAI offered amazing excursions to show students the different cultures within Italy and cooking classes to help us feel truly immersed. Jess and Jordan, our SAI staff, were always available to help and answer our questions and really encouraged us to speak Italian as much as possible. I would not change a thing about my study abroad experience and I am forever envious of all of the students who get to experience the wonder all over again.

I had the most amazing time in Paris thanks to SAI. They made everything so easy when it came to signing up for classes, finding an apartment, providing a cellphone and other such things. I got to have a 11 person class with some great kids both from the US and Europe and we all went to Vienna together for 4 days. SAI offers great excursions and the week long orientation before classes started was really welcome and a good way to adjust to the time difference.

I absolutely loved my time studying abroad with SAI Programs at Florence University of the Arts. Prior to my departure, the staff aided me with whatever questions or concerns I had, and made sure I felt prepared for the journey that awaited me. As soon as I arrived, I met my three roommates, who thanks to the housing survey, were the perfect fit for me! We became fast friends, and I immediately felt at home in this big city. The Orientation was also helpful, allowing us to meet other SAI students, and to get to know the SAI staff. The staff is amazingly kind, understanding, and willing to help out in whatever way they can. At no point did I feel confused, unsupported, or scared; the SAI staff made me feel right at home! On top of that they provided great recommendations for restaurants, gelato, and things to do around the city. My time at FUA was unlike any other. I took beginning Italian and Introduction to Art History, two classes that couldn't be taught anywhere better than in Florence! My teachers were very nice, wanted to get to know us as students, and understood our desire to experience all the city had to offer! The course load was definitely manageable, and we were constantly being immersed into the subject area we were practicing. Whether it was interviewing local shop owners or ordering our food in Italian, or even visiting museums filled with works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, the learning never ended in a city rich with culture. The apartments were also really nice. Mine was in the neighborhood part of the city, which I loved. There was a little coffee and pastry shop right next to our apartment and every morning my roommates and I would order an espresso. The man at the register knew very little English, so we were forced to practice our Italian. Due to our daily routine of ordering coffee, we became fast friends with the man and his wife even though a language barrier existed. I enjoyed getting the opportunity to immerse myself in the culture in such an authentic way. I also loved going on the FUA excursions and enjoyed times in Pisa, and Cinque Terre that were filled with activities led by our professors! There was also plenty of time to travel on the weekends which provided for a summer filled of adventuring! I met so many amazing people through the SAI program, and loved every moment traveling with them, taking in the view from Piazza Michelangelo, and enjoying huge dinners of pizza, pasta and wine! I would recommend the SAI program to anyone; as they gave me an experience I will never forget and supported me unconditionally along the way!

It was an amazing experience. The program I went through provided some free excursions that were great. It was the best way to see Florence, even the rest of Italy. The staff were helpful in the beginning, but toward the end it was harder to get hold of them. Overall, it was an unforgettable time!

Memorable Experience was driving a small boat around the island of Capri for a couple of hours one afternoon. Breathtaking sights, an incredible time. To improve my Italian language speaking skills and to learn more about the roots of the Mediterranean's past. I chose the summer session because I did not want to spend a semester away from my home campus and and truthfully, to have a vacation. Even with the homework, my time in Sorrento and Italy was definitely a vacation. I stayed with a family about 15 minutes away from the school (by foot). I adore them. They made me feel comfortable from the moment I stepped into their home. A friendship was forged.

For me it was about making contacts and networking. I enjoyed excursions to Capri and Pompeii. Having the opportunity to take the train to Rome and take my own walking tour was really remarkable. I chose to do my internship here because I want to work abroad and the opportunity to intern in Italy was a perfect way to open doors. I chose to live with a host family. This was by far the best choice. Getting to eat traditional Italian home cooking and trying new things is better than deciding what restaurant to eat at.

I really enjoyed my time at Sant'Anna. The professors and administration were always available to answer any questions and lend their local knowledge to the students. During the summer months, Sorrento is full of tourists because it is high season and an Italian city definitely worth seeing and staying in while traveling. However, at times, the constant English language on the streets overwhelmed the Italian language, and if you are here studying Italian, that could be a bit upsetting. But it is expected, because Sorrento is a destination. The locals are all so friendly and the city itself is quite safe. Many people warned me about pick-pocketers before I headed to Italy...none of that in Sorrento. I really did not want to leave the beautiful city, the school, and my host family. I developed friendships that I think will last forever and an even more ferocious love for the Italy, the boot in the Mediterranean.

I figured I would only be abroad very few times in my lifetime and I wanted to make sure I got the most out of my experience. I traveled somewhere every single weekend, mostly throughout Italy, but 3 times to different countries. I am very happy with what I got to see and even had some unexpected places I went to. The only downside to traveling every weekend is that I did not really get to experience Florence as much and see everything to see there. SAI helped out more in the beginning and became harder to get a hold of as the semester went on but for the most part they were very helpful. What I liked about them was that they provided free excursions throughout the semester. My favorite one was Milan/Lake Como trip which was a weekend trip and they provided the hotel, some meals, transportation, and we even got to see "The Last Supper" and did not find that out till we were about to go in and see it. The school FUA was a decent school. The library and computer labs could have been accessible more hours during the week and weekend. The teachers were very friendly though and most were willing to help. The classes were taught in English but some of the teachers had a very strong accent, which is to be expected. Overall my experience was amazing and I would go back and do it again.

The Sant'Anna Institute is an amazing place to study abroad. I only did my internship here but everyone from the program directors, coordinators, and assistants were very helpful and ensured that you got what you wanted to get out of the program.

My study abroad experience, last fall, was incredible. Going through SAI, I felt very organized and prepared to spend four months in Florence. After an initial housing survey and questionnaire, (5 months prior to September 2013) I was granted my request to live in an apartment with all of my friend's whom I was traveling with; it worked out perfectly. Although SAI provided the option to travel to other countries, my friend's and I decided to book our own trips. Overall, I would definitely recommend SAI Programs to others.

Touring Naples and experience the city as it was meant to be seen. I chose the program when my professor told me it was a good place to go. I was with a fantastic host family who speak a little English, so when I could not get by with my Italian, we could always get by with English.

My most memorable experience is at Regina Giovanna, a small cove located about 20 minutes from the school. It is my favorite place on earth. It is a small, secluded cove, just minutes away from a beach with plenty of places for cliff jumping, if you so desire, and easy access into the Bay of Naples. I spent an afternoon there with my friend, we stayed until sunset. On the walk back, we caught a ride from two very kind locals whom we had seen around town several times. They drove us all the way back into town on their Vespas. Every part of the day was perfect, from the weather to the sunset to the generous locals who went out of their way to return us home. I was given strong recommendations from peers at school who had previously studied here. The reviews were fantastic. After some research, I fell in love. I, along with another student, live with a very kind host family. Every morning they provide us with a great breakfast of cereal, bread, coffee, Nutella, and homemade marmalades. On Sundays, they also cook us feasts for lunch, which always left us pleasantly plump.

Traveling with friends to other countries on the weekends has been one of the most unique and memorable experiences. I chose the program because of the location and classes that would transfer to my school. I stayed in an apartment with two other girls. We had two bedrooms and one bathroom, a very large kitchen, and a few balconies. The landlord was great, aside from speaking little English and was very accommodating. The apartment was up the hill a ways from the main square, but gave us a chance to experience small town Sorrento.

My memorable experience, going to beaches and exploring! (cliff jumping multiple times) and of course the amazing FOOD! I chose this program because the town looked beautiful, it seemed like a great location, and it offered the credits I needed. I lived in an apartment with 3 other girls from different places in the US. We had an awesome apartment with air conditioning, new appliances and furniture, and a huge deck.

I went on a hike with a friend, but for the majority of the time we had no idea where we were! We ended up hiking several miles up the mountains, and we became the best of friends by the end of it. After a few hours I was ready to turn back, until we reached a beautiful view overlooking all of Sorrento that made the entire hike worth it. We walked until we were too tired to go on anymore and stopped at a restaurant, where we ate a great dinner while watching Italy play in the Mondiale, before hopping on a bus back to Sorrento. I chose it for it's long length, cheap price, and course offerings. With a host family in a tiny apartment, about 20-30 minutes from the school. The family was always very caring and helpful, and besides troubles with the wifi and cold showers the accommodations were great!

Amazing food, people, professors, culture, and school. Do not come here if your only purpose is to become fluent in Italian because everyone speaks English here, but every other aspect of the experience was one-of-a-kind. Academics: Really easy but still extremely informative and worthwhile. Living Situation: Live with a host family. Health and Safety: Not one problem for any guys although the Italian guys could be kind of creepy around the girls in the program.

The food, the people, the location, the courses, the administration, the classmates. Everything is just perfect.

This program has everything I was looking for and so much more. The small town feel, beautiful location, and amazing people make Sorrento the perfect place for a summer study abroad. Our time spent here and traveling around Europe has really made this trip one for the books. Enjoy!

Studying abroad in Sorrento was an amazing experience. Sorrento is a beautiful city that is small enough to allow you to get engaged in the culture, but big enough to have a lot of activity going on all the time. I would not change anything. Everyone should know about this awesome place and what they have to offer.

This has been an unforgettable experience! Though it definitely hasn't been anything like I had been expecting, I would never change my decision to come here. Sorrento is a tiny, beautiful coastal town absolutely full of tourists during the summer. Because of this you can live here for weeks without having to speak a word of Italian, but the locals really do appreciate it if you try! And your language skills will improve if you do. The classes were very interesting and taught by professors that really know their stuff. It does take a while to get used to the structure though, since it is a lot more laid-back than American universities. If you take the time to focus on your studies, you will be surprised by how much you have learned! Take advantage of your free time. It is easy to spend a day in your house or apartment not doing anything. Instead, go explore a new part of the city, or visit any of the amazing cities and sights nearby such as i bagni della Regina Giovanna or Positano. There are also countless hikes that are definitely worth your time. Overall, a great program with caring and supportive administrators and in a wonderful location!

My most memorable experience was when one Sunday, I rented scooters with three friends. Haley rode on the back of my scooter and we drove around the windy roads to Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, then back. As we were heading home, the sun was setting. The pinky orange sky set off the seaside towns beautifully.

Sant'Anna and Sorrento are both amazing. The location is beautiful and the southern Italy hospitality will have you feeling right at home! This is the perfect place for people who want a different study abroad experience with lots of cultural immersion. Academics: In general the classes are great for study abroad; not too challenging, and lots of out of classroom learning. Living Situation: I lived in a huge apartment with 11 people. I wish i had chosen a home stay! Cultural Immersion: Sorrento's a small town, so you really get to know the locals! Program Administration: Everyone is kind, friendly, and helpful.

My most memorable experience...it is hard to pick just one!! I have seen so many places through travel. My favorite places that we went with the school were Capri and Pompeii. These are places that many people would love to go, but probably won't ever get the chance to. Personally I did a lot of traveling. My most memorable experience was probably mid semester break where 3 other girls and I went on a cruise! It was amazing I personally chose Sorrento because it was the most similar to where I was coming from. My home university's enrollment number is equivalent to the number of people in Sorrento. I knew that coming from a medium sized town and school that I would be comfortable with Sorrento as a whole. Sorrento is the perfect combination of modern and rustic. The town boasts charming buildings and modern shops. You still get a traditional vibe with the advantages of a modern world. My apartment came with a washing machine, place settings, plenty of pots and pans, dishes, towels, bedding, TV, and hairdryer. Keep in mind that living here isn't like America. We don't have a living room, but just a couch in our kitchen area. Most/All of our furniture is from Ikea and isn't very comfortable, but you learn to live with it. After awhile, your rock hard bed won't seem so bad :)

My experience here at SASL has been a roller coaster! I came to Italy knowing hardly anything about the language or the country as a whole. When I arrived, I was overwhelmed. Culture shock is real and don't doubt that for a minute. SASL gave us a welcome lunch, and fantastic orientation, plus a tour of the town. My apartment is wonderful as I have my own room and bathroom (my roommates share by choice). The only thing that stinks is the wifi isn't very good, but you won't need it much other than to talk to people at home. Our land lady came by once a week to give us fresh sheets and take our garbage! My upstairs neighbors were actually quite terrible as their three children cried all day and into the night (almost every night). Walls in Italy are paper thin so you need to abide by the country's ordinances for noise. It becomes something you can adjust to or tune out, but it takes a lot of time. Sorrento is a very beautiful and small town with both a rustic and modern feel to it. Tourism keeps the town busy during the high season, but dwindles down to locals in late fall. There are so many beautiful beaches, shops, and restaurants to see. Sorrento offers some of the best views of Napoli and Mt.Vesuvius. Other than sights, Sorrento is perfectly placed to travel from. You can easily hop the train to Napoli Centrale and catch many trains that go all over the country. The beautiful islands of Capri and Ischia are easily accessible as well. The Amalfi Coast is also a must, you can take a bus for 7 euro. As for academics, school sits just on the rocks overlooking Marina Grande. The sights out of the school windows belong on a post card. School is great and always there to help you with anything. Serena and Dani are the best to go to for any problems/questions/concerns you may have! All the staff is extremely nice and all speak English pretty well for the most part. The only downside is one of my teacher's still doesn't have our names down and there are only 3 of us in his class. SASL offers many courses that can be applied toward general education credits, and some that can be taken independently to cover higher level credits. Although the courses lack a bit of structure (remember you aren't at an American University) I have learned a lot. Class is very personable and interactive, as your class sizes will be smaller (even considerably smaller if you are coming abroad in fall). Partaking in the Italian course is essential, and will come in handy. It is probably my favorite class! As far as meeting locals, it is hard to connect because there aren't many college level students in Sorrento. There are young kids (mostly high schoolers) who seem friendly enough. We made a couple friends here and there and had some friendly acquaintances with shop keepers or waiters. Other than that, we had a pretty hard time meeting peers our age. I opted instead to connect with our staff at school. I have become good friends with Serena and Dani and I will miss them so much once I leave Italy. Overall, I have loved my time abroad and I am so thankful for it. I have learned not only so much about myself, but about the world as well. Take it from someone who almost left the second week in, studying abroad will change your life! I know that I will probably be the person who will miss this experience the most. Studying abroad is more than just the experience in school, but outside those walls as well. Remember that you are LIVING here, you aren't just a visitor. Take in every moment, never take anything for granted, and try new things :)

Not long enough to meet all different types of people.

Florence rocks!

Florence is beautiful but not the best place to study abroad, not a lot to do.

Florence was great! Small city so it isn't super overwhelming. Easy to find your way. Daniela at FUA is awesome!

I loved studying abroad in Florence, I just wish I was here longer than three weeks!!

I can't truly complain about this program. Whatever you have in mind for your future study abroad experience, this program is bound to be able to give you the chance to go out and get it. Sorrento is a great location - near Sicily, as tropical as Italy gets, Mt. Vesuvious as a backdrop, and Naples near by for a big city feel. Sorrento is small though. Because all the towns in the area sit along the bay of Naples, they're usually only one town deep and Sorrento is on one of the ends of the bay so its a bit remote but still bustling during tourist season. Also not that it does definitely have a tourist season. If you're looking to speak Italian, you can definitely do so but everyone there still speaks English. I didn't take Italian classes and I though my class load was a little light. You'll never hear me complain of no homework but the two classes I took were a little easy and I was hoping for a bit more stimulation (you can only go to the beach so many times a month). Lastly, because the school is small everyone knows evryone so the staff is very helpful.

I loved my semester in Florence, but I would not recommend SAI. Although my apartment was very nice, many of my friends experienced problems. I don't think the program did enough to get students to meet one another. We had one optional mixer the first week and then were basically on our own. Besides these issues, Florence is an amazing city and I easily had the best 4 months of my life.

There needed to be more student integration. All the apartments were spread all over Florence which made it difficult to get to know people.

Great time, saw all of Europe, only complaint would be apartments --> were packed in 8 people per apartment.

I had a great time traveling and had a great school experience.

I had a great time traveling and had a great school experience.

I choose to study abroad in Sorrento because it offered a smaller more personable experience in a lively beach town near Amalfi. The first 6 weeks of the program, Sorrento is a bustling town in the height of tourist season. After about mid October it slows down drastically and that is the time I started to travel. My professors were very accommodating and flexible in terms of rescheduling classes so I could travel. I was able to go to, Rome, Umbria, Milan, Amalfi, Possitano, Oktoberfest (Munich), Berlin, London, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Prague. It is definitely not cheap to travel but, a worth while cost and returning to Sorrento is always a breath of fresh air. I would recommend this to people who want an experience off of the beaten path but, one that offers a multitude of different opportunities. The nightlife around Sorrento post/pre tourist season is pretty slow so that is when I recommend traveling because once the town is alive it is amazing to wander the streets at night.

SAI is a great program for both experienced international travellers and newcomers! They pre-pare you before the trip, welcome you warmly, keep you comforable, are always on-call, and provide the most incredible experience! In Spring of 2012 I studied in Roma through the SAI program and I was pleased all around. My housing situation was comfortable and clean, my classes were GREAT (very one-on-one with Italiaidea), resources were always available, and SAI was prompt and quick when it came to answer my questions and or responding to phone calls and e-mails! Anyone looking for a study abroad program would be smart to choose this one!

Experiencing. A different culture and meeting people from other school experiencing the same thing is life changing.

I loved everything about my study abroad experience. The only negative experiences I had involved the administration at FUA, but this was more due to the Italians' slow paced lifestyle than anything else. I made the best friends of my life and recommend this program to anyone looking for a positive, life-changing experience.

The program centered more on socializing than academics -- great for party people. Difficult if you want to learn -- especially Italian, terrible language programs.