Siena Italian Studies Program

My most memorable experiences involved the festivities surrounding the Palio. Seeing contrada life up close is something that not many outsiders have the opportunity to do, so I felt very lucky to be able to go to contrada dinners and parties, etc. I chose this program because I didn't have time for a full semester, and Siena Italian Studies was highly recommended for me by my advisers at Ohio State. I lived with a host family outside the city of Siena. I had a roommate and two host parents. I felt very comfortable in the apartment that I lived in.

Siena Italian Studies is an amazing and life-changing study abroad experience! The program is small and very personal. The activities and excursions they plan are really unexpected and show you parts of Italy you wouldn't see otherwise. Host families are phenomenal and the professors and staff are really great and care about what they do and the community service options let you experience the real Italy. I would do it all over again if I could!! Academics: I had a great academic experience. Courses are taught in Italian using their special instruction method called FICCS. They introduce more and more Italian every day in classes so you really learn by the end of the semester. I came as a beginner Italian student and left feeling fluent - I wrote all of my final papers in Italian - it was a challenge but you get a lot of support throughout the semester. Living Situation: I had the most incredible host family! I've been back to visit many times and I truly feel part of their family. The food was incredible and so were the conversations with my host mom. They made my experience unforgettable and I still miss them every day! Cultural Immersion: SIS makes sure students meet and interact with as many Italians as possible. The program is very small and the professors are all Italian. We were matched with Italian Language exchange partners, spent tons of time with our host families and they encourage everyone to volunteer in the community. I taught at an elementary school and that was a true highlight of the experience. I feel like I had a very authentic Italian experience. Health and Safety: Siena is a super safe city - I never felt uncomfortable or in danger, even at night. Social Life: Siena is a small city but there are bars and pubs and when the weather gets warm, most people just hang out in the central square - Piazza del Campo - and drink wine - it's a really great atmosphere.

This was a great experience full of cultural experiences and trips all over Italy!