Syracuse Academy | Study in Sicily
Why choose Syracuse Academy | Study in Sicily?
Syracuse Academy is a mission-driven institution rooted in values of cultural exchange, community building, and holistic sustainable development. Based in Sicily, we are deeply committed to nurturing the health and vitality of the island and its people, institutions, and ecosystems. Our focus extends to both land and marine biodiversity, advocating resilience against climate change while addressing regional and global challenges. At Syracuse Academy, we believe in the transformative power of international education. Our programs offer innovative, collaborative, and interculturally-based learning experiences. We are dedicated to fostering meaningful engagement that benefits both local and global communities. Our approach integrates purposeful, subject-focused, and experiential education to support community sustainability, well-being, equity, prosperity, and opportunity. Join us in our journey to advance societal progress while leaving no person or place behind.
Syracuse Academy is a mission-driven institution rooted in values of cultural exchange, community building, and holistic sustainable development. Based in Sicily, we are deeply committed to nurturing the health and vitality of the island and its people, institutions, and ecosystems. Our focus extends to both land and marine biodiversity, advocating resilience against climate change while addressing regional and global challenges. At Syracuse Academy, we believe in the transformative power of international education. Our programs offer innovative, collaborative, and interculturally-based learning experiences. We are dedicated to fostering meaningful engagement that benefits both local and global communities. Our approach integrates purposeful, subject-focused, and experiential education to support community sustainability, well-being, equity, prosperity, and opportunity. Join us in our journey to advance societal progress while leaving no person or place behind.
Syracuse Academy | Study in Sicily Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
Unique blend
February 29, 2024by: Joseph NegronThis program offered a unique blend of culinary exploration and academic study. The visits to wineries and olive groves were highlights for me. However, I felt the program could have included more interactive cooking sessions to apply what we learned about Sicilian cuisine.
Unforgettable experience
February 29, 2024by: Caroline SalsaThe culinary journey through Sicily was an unforgettable experience. Visiting local farms and learning about sustainable farming practices firsthand was incredibly insightful. The program's focus on food sustainability and the capstone project were both eye-opening and rewarding.
I left with a profound appreciation
February 29, 2024by: Irlanda LourençoProgram: Human Rights & Migration in Sicily
The Cultural Heritage and Identity course offered a deep dive into Sicily's rich history. The field trips were enlightening, and learning Italian added a valuable dimension to the experience. I left with a profound appreciation for Sicily's diverse cultural influences.
It beautifully combined a lot of experiences
February 26, 2024by: Shovkat Todorova BobevaProgram: Human Rights & Migration in Sicily
The Cultural Heritage and Identity in Sicily program was a revelation. It beautifully combined lectures, field trips, and personal interactions to paint a vivid picture of Sicilian culture. Enhancing the program with more hands-on workshops in local crafts would make it even more engaging.
A truly enriching experience
February 25, 2024by: Sebastian EndressA truly enriching experience that combined my love for food with an interest in sustainability. The capstone project on food sustainability was challenging yet rewarding. While the program was excellent overall, increased interaction with local communities would have added value.
Unforgettable experience
February 25, 2024by: Ethan DavidsonProgram: Human Rights & Migration in Sicily
Exploring Sicily's mosaic of cultures was an unforgettable experience. The program's interdisciplinary approach provided a comprehensive understanding of the island's identity. More interactive Italian language sessions would have enhanced the learning experience.
Perfect mix of learning and cultural exploration
February 21, 2024by: Leah Aguilar VasquesThe program was a perfect mix of learning and cultural exploration. The visits to cheesemakers and the focus on short supply chains provided valuable insights into sustainable agriculture. Yet, the program could improve by offering more direct cooking experience.
Perfect blend of education and cultural immersion
February 18, 2024by: Sidra BurghulProgram: Human Rights & Migration in Sicily
This course was a perfect blend of education and cultural immersion. The storytelling and art elements were fascinating, and the ethical discussions added depth. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in cultural studies.
Syracuse is a gem
February 18, 2024by: Emily ThompsonProgram: Human Rights & Migration in Sicily
Syracuse is a gem. Best way to spend the summer term. Learning Italian on the fly, diving into the deep blue sea, and getting that hands-on experience with local ecosystems was mind-blowing. Not to mention the late-night gelato runs and pizza that spoils you for life. Sicily's got my heart!
This program is a treasure trove
February 18, 2024by: Jackson MartinezProgram: Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus in Italy
For anyone into archaeology, this program is a treasure trove. Exploring ancient sites, digging into history – literally – and the lectures were as far from boring as you can get. Plus, living in Syracuse feels like you're part of history. Absolutely epic summer.
More interaction with local experts
February 17, 2024by: Roy AloiProgram: Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus in Italy
Exploring the Temple of Zeus and participating in excavations was an unforgettable experience. The program fostered a strong sense of community among students from diverse backgrounds. More interaction with local experts would have enhanced the learning even further.
Offered a unique insight
February 16, 2024by: Eleni GojaevaProgram: Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus in Italy
The archaeological dig offered a unique insight into ancient Greek civilization. The hands-on approach to learning was incredibly fun. However, the program could benefit from more comprehensive coverage of conservation techniques, for those interested in digging deeper!
The program was well-structured
February 15, 2024by: Nicholas KoloffProgram: Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus in Italy
This summer, uncovering the layers of history at the Temple of Zeus was an absolute dream come true. The program was well-structured, combining fieldwork with insightful lectures. However, more time dedicated to artifact analysis would have been appreciated.
I loved every moment of this program
February 15, 2024by: Mirurgia SimónProgram: Marine and Costal Ecology
I loved every moment of this program, from the hands-on field activities to learning Italian and meeting students from all over the world. It was not only educational but also a lot of fun. Highly recommend to anyone passionate about environmental science and sustainability.
Real-world experience
February 15, 2024by: Samira CömeProgram: Marine and Costal Ecology
As an Environmental Sciences major, this program was incredibly enriching. The hands-on activities and the capstone project on environmental sustainability provided real-world experience that's hard to come by. Also, the opportunity to learn Italian and interact with a diverse group of students added so much value.
Unmatched
February 14, 2024by: Sebastian BurrowsProgram: Intensive Italian Language and Culture Summer in Sicily
The immersive experience at Syracuse Academy is unmatched. The mix of structured classes and real-world practice in Syracuse’s historic center accelerated my learning. However, more advanced conversation classes would be beneficial.
Study sessions by the sea?
February 14, 2024by: Sophia LeeProgram: Marine and Costal Ecology
Mixing marine biology studies with snorkeling and boat trips around Syracuse's coast was unreal. Saw some amazing sea life and got to chill on some of the most beautiful beaches during our downtime. Study sessions by the sea? Can't beat that.
Classes were fun and interactive
February 13, 2024by: Noah JohnsonProgram: Intensive Italian Language and Culture Summer in Sicily
Learning Italian in Syracuse is the way to go. Classes were fun and interactive, and practicing with locals at the market or while ordering cannoli was hilarious. Gained a language and a ton of funny stories!
Transformative experience
February 10, 2024by: Joseph YousafProgram: Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus in Italy
The Temple of Zeus activities were all-in-all a transformative experience, a blend of theoretical knowledge with practical archaeological work. The dedication of the faculty and the immersive fieldwork sessions were exceptional. A bit more focus on digital archaeology tools would have been beneficial.
Highly recommended for language learners
February 08, 2024by: Baumer Trujillo CordobaProgram: Intensive Italian Language and Culture Summer in Sicily
Syracuse Academy offers a unique blend of language learning and cultural immersion. The personalized approach to language instruction and the opportunities for practical application are outstanding. Highly recommended for language learners.
Perfectly blends academic rigor with the thrill of discovery
February 08, 2024by: Kimberly RossProgram: Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus in Italy
An exceptional program that perfectly blends academic rigor with the thrill of discovery. The field trips added a fantastic dimension to our learning, bringing the ancient world to life. I left with a deeper appreciation for Sicilian history and archaeology.
Incredible
February 07, 2024by: Daniel AuslanderProgram: Human Rights & Migration in Sicily
Studying Sicily's cultural heritage in such an immersive setting was incredible. The course was insightful, and the international community of students made the experience even richer. A more varied selection of field trips could improve the program.
A profound journey into the past
February 07, 2024by: Michelle ZajacProgram: Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus in Italy
The archaeological program at the Temple of Zeus was a profound journey into the past. Working alongside expert archaeologists provided an unparalleled learning experience. The hands-on excavation and analysis sessions were both challenging and rewarding.
Every day was a new adventure
February 06, 2024by: Ava RodriguezDiving into Sicily’s rich history and culture while studying? Yes, please! From Baroque architecture tours to traditional Sicilian cooking classes, every day was a new adventure. Felt more like living a dream than studying abroad.
It was incredible to study directly at historical sites
February 05, 2024by: Liam FuegeProgram: Human Rights & Migration in Sicily
Participating in the Archaeology Field School was a highlight for me. It was incredible to study directly at historical sites. However, I wished for more focus on the environmental humanities aspect of the program.
Perfectly blended academic rigor with adventure
February 04, 2024by: Jordan GüntertProgram: Marine and Costal Ecology
This summer program perfectly blended academic rigor with adventure. Visiting Mt. Etna and the Aeolian Islands for field studies was beyond educational. However, I wished for more in-depth sessions on marine biology. Overall, the multicultural environment and earning college credits were major pluses.
Unparalleled learning opportunities
February 04, 2024by: Alex LeonieProgram: Marine and Costal Ecology
The Environment and Biodiversity program in Sicily was a life-changing experience. Exploring ecosystems from the coast to Mount Etna offered unparalleled learning opportunities. The mix of theoretical knowledge and fieldwork, especially the capstone project, was perfect for hands-on learning. Also, learning Italian was a bonus!
Deep dive into Italian culture and language
February 03, 2024by: Lucia EndressProgram: Intensive Italian Language and Culture Summer in Sicily
This program was a deep dive into Italian culture and language. The educational outings and interactions with locals were invaluable. My only critique is the need for more varied social activities to engage with the local community.
I loved every aspect of the program
February 02, 2024by: Emerald BurghulI loved every aspect of the program, from the academic content to the cultural immersion. The hands-on experiences at honey farms and learning about forgotten crops were fascinating. However, more emphasis on nutritional sciences in the curriculum would have been beneficial.
This is your jam
February 02, 2024by: Liam ParkProgram: Marine and Costal Ecology
If you're into nature and sustainability, this is your jam. We were out in the field more than in class, which was sick. Seeing conservation efforts up close and getting to contribute? Priceless. Plus, the local scene in Syracuse is chill and super welcoming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of credit can I earn from SA's Summer Programs?
Participants can earn up to 6 US college credits upon successful completion of the course. Students will need to submit syllabus to their universities for acceptance in order to earn credits, before the program start.
The program includes 45 contact hours and covers major disciplines such as Environmental Sciences, Marine Biology, and Ecology, with related disciplines including Anthropology, Food Studies, and Sustainability Studies.
Are there any prerequisites for joining SA's Summer Programs?
Only prerequisites for our programs are: a good level of English, since the entire programs are run in English, and 18 yo minimum. At SA we try making it accessible to students from a variety of academic backgrounds interested in sustainability. However, a keen interest in sustainable practices, culinary arts, and/or marine ecology is encouraged.
Can I participate in more than one summer program offered by SA?
Yes, students are welcome to enroll in multiple programs if they wish to extend their learning experience and explore different areas of interest. Each program is designed to complement the others, offering a comprehensive insight into Sicily's rich cultural and natural heritage.
What accommodations are available?
Syracuse Academy offers accommodation in double or single rooms in shared student apartments. Each apartment is fully equipped and includes maintenance service. All options are designed to enhance your cultural immersion experience, providing comfortable living conditions close to the academy and program sites.
How does SA support students in adjusting to life in Sicily?
Syracuse Academy offers comprehensive support to international students, including orientation sessions, Italian language courses, and cultural immersion activities to help students adjust to life in Sicily. The academy also provides assistance with practical matters ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all students.
Interviews
Read interviews from alumni or staff

Margherita Torrisi
Interviewed in 2024
Margherita has a Foreign Languages degree from Catania University, she started to travel and work in tourism. Margherita has been working in hospitali...

Margherita Torrisi
Interviewed in 2024
What inspired you to travel abroad?
I was inspired to work for my organization because it's a multicultural context full of new challenges every day.

Giada Bonaventura
Interviewed in 2024
Giada manages administration programs at Syracuse Academy, including program accounting and contract reviewing, as well as working on grant applicatio...

Giada Bonaventura
Interviewed in 2024
What inspired you to travel abroad?
What inspires me the most is the fact that working with young people. We have the possibility to have a real impact on their lives. So, I feel that what we do matters.

Angelina Korniyenko
Interviewed in 2024
Angelina is from Ukraine, but for the past ten years, she has lived in both London and Chicago, where she received her degrees. Currently, Angelina is...

Angelina Korniyenko
Interviewed in 2024
What inspired you to travel abroad?
Joining an English-speaking organization in Italy merges my passion for linguistic proficiency with the dynamic nature of diverse tasks and skill acquisition. It's a unique blend of personal growth and professional development in a multicultural environment.
Awards
Check out awards and recognitions Syracuse Academy | Study in Sicily has received

