Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

I recently studied abroad for 6 weeks in Florence Italy through Worldstrides! Studying abroad was never something I thought I would do, but im so glad I took the opportunity! Worldstrides was incredibly helpful in making me feel comfortable and confident both before and during my program. I had an amazing time exploring Florence, experiencing culture, and on weekend trips. I would definitely recommend studying in Florence through Worldstrides to anyone interested in having an amazing experience!

I absolutely loved my time in Florence with World Strides! I had never been out of the country and didn't know anyone else going, so I was terrified, but the experience was amazing. World strides was really easy to work with and offered a lot of free activities in Florence, such as a cooking class and a weekend trip to Lake Garda. The staff were all really kind and welcoming, and I made very good friends in the program. I could not recommend this program enough!

Studying abroad truly was a life-altering experience. Worldstrides made it easy to understand the process and they were very helpful in answering any questions and providing assistance pre-departure, during, and have even been in touch after. I've made friends I will hold on to all my life and made so many special memories. I feel so much more open to change now and I am sure this will stick with me for the better!

I studied abroad this summer in Florence with WorldStrides and it was truly an amazing experience. I was able to immerse myself in a new culture, grow in unforeseen ways, make new friends and so many memories that I will forever cherish.

I had an amazing experience studying abroad in Florence, Italy! The housing was in a fantastic location, just a short walk from the city center and all the landmarks. The school itself was both challenging and exciting—there was always something new to learn, and the professors were passionate about what they taught. The staff was incredibly helpful and made sure everything went smoothly, from settling in to offering support throughout the semester. One of my favorite parts of the program was the weekend trips we took to nearby cities and sights. It was the perfect balance of academics and exploration. Highly recommend this program to anyone looking for a memorable study abroad experience!

This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy through a three-week program with ISA and WorldStrides. I took a course called Wine Windows and Wine Business Walks, which was one of the most unique and engaging classes I’ve ever taken. The course brought us out into the streets of Florence and into the Tuscan countryside, where we explored wine windows, visited vineyards, and learned about the history and marketing of Italian wine directly from local producers. What made the experience even more special were the day trips that ISA and WorldStrides planned for us. We explored Pisa and took the classic leaning tower photo, wandered through the medieval towers and charming streets of San Gimignano, and soaked in the rich culture and stunning views in Siena. Each destination gave us a different glimpse into Italy’s diverse history and regional charm, all without the stress of planning it ourselves. Outside of class and excursions, Florence quickly felt like home. Whether it was sipping cappuccinos in the morning, getting lost in Renaissance art, or watching the sunset over the Arno, every day felt like a dream. This experience not only deepened my academic interests but also helped me grow personally and culturally. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to combine education, travel, and adventure in one unforgettable summer.

I had an incredible experience abroad. I truly enjoyed learning from my professors, whose insight and dedication made a lasting impact. The program staff were exceptionally responsive to emails and provided consistent support, which made me feel confident and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I always felt safe and supported during my time abroad, especially at the beginning when everything was new. The kindness and helpfulness of the staff made a huge difference and helped me settle in smoothly. Overall, I absolutely loved the experience and am grateful for how seamless and enriching it was.

Studying abroad was truly the best experience of my life, and I would recommend it to absolutely anyone. Going into it, I was terrified—traveling to a foreign country alone without knowing anyone felt overwhelming. But taking that leap paid off in ways I never imagined. This experience gave me so much confidence in myself and a deep trust in my own abilities. I not only made lifelong friends and unforgettable memories, but I also left with a stronger, more fulfilling relationship with myself. Being immersed in different cultures firsthand is the best way to gain perspective, knowledge, and personal growth. A huge part of what made this experience so incredible was the support from ISA. From the very beginning, they provided guidance and reassurance, making the transition so much easier. I always felt safe knowing that if I ever needed help, I could rely on them. Their support allowed me to focus on enjoying my time abroad and truly making the most of every moment. If you're on the fence about studying abroad—do it. It’s scary at first, but it’s an adventure that will change your life in the best possible way!

Studying in Florence was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I met some of my best friends while getting an education and working towards my degree. The program itself offered multiple opportunities to connect with the community and other students who were studying abroad. I stayed at the social hub which was so much fun, they offer cooking classes every Thursday night and Friday night drinks which was a great way to meet other students from other programs. ISA program offered many activities right at the beginning of the program which helped me ease my way into adjusting to a new environment. I loved the support the staff gave to each student. Overall, it was a great experience.

I decided to study abroad in Florence, Italy, Fall of my senior year of college. I was super nervous (and had never been to Europe), but I wanted to challenge myself! All I can say, is this experience taught me more about myself than I ever could have imagined. I traveled to 13 countries, met amazing lifelong friends, and ate the most fabulous food. I am truly aching to get back to Europe and explore even more. I was terrified to do this (as many other students are), but I promise, with all of the support from your program, you are more than prepared to take on the journey! There is no better time to immerse yourself in a new environment and live abroad than during college! You grow so much and learn a new appreciation for your host country, as well as your actual home! I have never been more proud of myself for leaving my comfort zone and diving into the most amazing for months of my life. I miss it every single day!

Studying abroad in Florence with ISA was the best decision of my life. Being able to live in a new country and learn about a completely different culture and way of life is a once in a lifetime opportunity. There is no better way to learn than being able to learn through experiences. During the semester I was abroad, I was able to travel all throughout Italy as well as to many other countries all over Europe. Because of this program, I was able to meet some of my best friends and make many amazing memories. Through my time there, Florence truly became a second home, and I can't wait until I am able to be there again!

The best 4 months of my life! Florence was a dream and I would giving anything and everything to go back. The city is filled with lots of history and offers something for everyone. The coffee, the pasta, the pizza, you name it and it was amazing. I lived in an apartment in the city and I recommend this! It was nice to be able to cook meals when wanted and to come back to a cozy place. With Florence being a smaller city, it creates a home-like feel which made my abroad experience 10x better. The more I traveled, the more I appreciated the fact that it was a walkable city. I enjoyed getting to roam the streets of Florence and take in the culture and architecture it had to offer. I am constantly missing my view of the Duomo I had on my walks to class! While Florence is a bit more expensive to fly out of compared to other cities, I was able to travel to a hand full of cities and countries without any issues. Seeing as there are so many surrounding cities to fly out of, it didn't downgrade my experience one bit. If you are thinking of studying in Italy, I absolutely recommend Florence! You won't be disappointed!!

Studying abroad with ISA was so smooth and relaxing. Traveling overseas and doing school in another country is stressful to even think about planning, but ISA made it so easy and I loved this program. We not only got to get close with other students studying abroad but there were events planned for us to tour and see around the city. The classes were my favorite part and I really got to emerge myself in the culture in Florence.

My experience was unique because I had never been to Europe before studying abroad. This was my first time for everything in Europe, and I think that’s really special. I had never been so far from home before, and it definitely made me very independent and develop new helpful problem solving skills. I ended up having so much fun in my classes abroad, and with my new friends that I am now inspired to help others through the study abroad process. I also didn’t know a single person studying abroad and that was a little nerve racking for me because I didn’t know what any one in my program was like or even who my roommates were. However, I think that my program did an amazing job at pairing me up with girls that are like me, to make living with strangers a lot smoother. A note I would leave for someone studying abroad in Florence for the semester is to say yes to everything, and do as much as you can. The semester goes by so so fast it almost feels like a dream when you come back, so you have to make the most of your time and enjoy every moment.

I decided to spend an academic year studying in Florence, Italy, because my mother’s family is Tuscan and Sicilian, and I wanted to reconnect with my heritage. I stayed in a homestay with one roommate, and our host was a wonderful grandmother. She was incredibly kind and supportive, and I am so grateful for the year I got to spend with her. While in Italy, I also traveled to ten other countries, experiencing their food, celebrations, shopping scenes, and more. Besides traveling, my time in Italy was one of the best periods of my life. I made close friends with many locals and foreigners who taught me their languages, cooking skills, and other cultural traditions.

I recently completed my study abroad experience with ISA in Florence, Italy. The staff at ISA were extremely helpful and took time to thoroughly answer every question I sent their way. In Florence, the staff were some of the nicest people i’ve ever met and genuinely cared about me and my peers. I decided to study abroad alone and was really nervous leading up to departure, but ISA provides such great care and lasting friendships. When I arrived in Florence, I was greeted by a staff member and transported to my apartment quickly and easily. I went on two excursions through my program, Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano, where ISA provided comfortable transportation and guided tours of the cities. I also had a wonderful experience with the apartment ISA assigned for me, with it being located in walking distance to the city center as well as grocery stores and restaurants right next door. In Florence, I took three fashion classes and a wine and city class. Each class was always so fun and I enjoyed going to museums, tasting food I would have never tried and meeting locals. I truly had the time of my life and will cherish the memories and friendships forever.

My experience with ISA and their study abroad program in Florence, Italy, was absolutely incredible. From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in the rich culture and history of this stunning city. ISA's program was meticulously organized, ensuring a seamless blend of academics and exploration. The staff was incredibly supportive, providing guidance and assistance every step of the way. I had the opportunity to live like a local, studying in historic buildings and indulging in authentic Italian cuisine. ISA made my dreams of studying in Italy a reality, offering personalized support that allowed me to focus on my studies and fully embrace the Florentine lifestyle. This transformative experience not only broadened my academic horizons but also enriched my personal growth in ways I could never have imagined.

Studying abroad in Florence, Italy through ISA was the experience of a lifetime. The program was in the Fall of 2023, from the end of August until Mid-December. Although I wanted to stay forever, this timeline was a perfect amount of time away from my home university at UCLA. ISA set 4 of my friends and me up with a wonderful apartment, right on the edge of the city center and the residential area. They were extremely helpful in providing us with anything we needed, from kitchen supplies to a spare key when I was once locked out! Florentines were extremely welcoming and excited to share their culture with us, making this experience more immersive and culturally enriching. The classes offered were also so fascinating and fun! I can't recommend the program enough.

I studied abroad in Florence, Italy with ISA and it was truly the best time of my life! I was in a country for 9 weeks where I didn't know anybody but I never felt alone. Studying abroad allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in another culture. ISA allowed me to travel to other cities in Italy with other students apart of the program which helped me to meet new people and connect with others. My apartment was in the perfect location and my roommates were amazing. I would recommend this program to anyone interested studying abroad!

I studied abroad with ISA in Florence January- may of 2022. I knew nobody going into this and met a group of life long friends there in Florence. The process was fairly simple with getting a student visa and filling out forms. Getting to Italy was a breeze with the programs transportation they included. The professors were always helpful and willing to give advise and recommendations. My apartment was in the best possible location, a 10 minute walk from the duomo in a very safe residence. Everyone I came in contact with through the ISA program was very helpful and friendly. I recommend every college student to study abroad, and I would do it 10x over again!

I adored my study abroad experience. As an individual with italian descent, my Nonno always encouraged me to study abroad, and that Florence was one of the most incredible places to further my education. My hope was to further my italian language learning, dive deep into my heritage and family culture, and learn about the lifestyle of the typical italian. I feel like Florence not only gave me the opportunity to experience that, but gave me the chance to interact with other European students around the world. I had the chance to travel to over 7 countries during my 4 months there, connect with my professors and the locals, discover markets and caffès and understand the process of making pasta and wine. The focaccia is incredible! I 10/10 recommend going abroad and experiencing life outside of your comfort zone, and a place and culture different than you own. I grew a ton!

Studying abroad in Florence was a transformative experience that left an indelible mark on my life. The city's rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality created the perfect backdrop for exploration. Wandering through narrow alleys and stumbling upon hidden gems like local markets and artisan workshops allowed me to truly immerse myself in the local culture. The people of Florence welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like a part of their community, and the Italian language courses added an extra layer to my cultural journey, fostering deeper connections with locals. Studying abroad in Florence not only enriched my cultural experience but also played a pivotal role in my personal and professional growth. The academic environment, coupled with the unique cultural context, provided me with a holistic education that transcended traditional classroom boundaries. Academically, the Italian language courses not only equipped me with a valuable skill but also enhanced my communication abilities. Learning to navigate daily life in a foreign language fostered adaptability skills that have proven to be helpful in various aspects of my personal and professional life.

My time abroad was full of ups and downs. There was a lot of adjustments that I had to make. Studying abroad was one of the best choices I have made. I learned so many different life lessons that I will continue to build off of. This experience is something that I still look back on and reflect. All the different cultures that I was exposed to and opportunities I had are something I will never take for granted.

This summer I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Florence. I went not knowing anyone and was paired with three roommates. This program changed my life. Not only was I supported by the staff and my roommates, I was left with lifelong friends and memories. ISA offered many trips and experiences that I took advantage of, traveling to Rome, San Gimignano and more. This was especially exciting as I have not left the country before studying abroad. The classes taught me a lot about what I want to do with my future. I even had the opportunity to work in the student-ran restaurant. In the restaurant, I learned how to properly manage a restaurant while also making new friends. I celebrated my 21st birthday halfway through my time in Florence. I was scared I would miss celebrating my special day without my friends from home and my family. However, my friends in Italy and roommates made it the most perfect celebration of life I could have asked for and I haven’t felt so special in my life. The people, the culture and the food were only a part of what made this the best experience of my life. I found myself there and was allowed to be nothing than myself. I wouldn’t trade the experiences I had or the friendships I made for the world! Coming home was bittersweet, and if you know me, you’ll know that I continue to talk about these memories everyday. I cannot wait to visit Florence again in the future!

My time studying abroad in Italy was unforgettable. FUA was an excellent school with great people. I felt like I was encouraged to be curious, explore and immerse myself into other cultures. I will never forget the memories I made in Florence - the food, the city, my teachers and more!

I loved my time abroad. Florence was the most amazing city to become immersed in European culture. My professors were awesome and were very good about helping us navigate life in Florence - the dos and don'ts. Overall, it was so much fun and very exciting!

I enjoyed my time abroad and couldn’t have asked for a better team to arrange my studies, like ISA. In my semester, I got to study fashion design and sketch in the heart of where the Renaissance burgeoned. I met great people too and had the flexibility to also go to other areas of Italy. Strongly recommend as it will give you a boost in morale and has helped me learn a lot about global marketing and public relations.

My time in Florence, Italy with ISA was the best time of my life! I could not recommend this program more. I made memories to last a lifetime and I am so grateful for my experience. The ISA staff was wonderful and very helpful. The opportunity to live and learn in a new country is so special and I hope encourage everyone to do so!

I would recommend this program! I had the best experience at Florence. The ISA staff were very helpful, and I learned so much. My apartment was nearby the city center which made exploring so easy. Florence is a smaller to medium city that was full of amazing foo and people. I loved being able to travel to new places and meet people from other universities studying there as well. I participated in the Chat Pal club as well when I was there. This allowed me to connect with locals and learn about their lives.

I had such an amazing experience traveling to Florence to study fashion marketing! For me, going abroad has always been about getting to experience something that I could never do in the United States. I wanted to travel to a different environment to learn more about my future career, and also about the culture and beauty built around the world. I've always wanted to go to Italy, and after doing some research, I picked Florence because the city is known for its rich art and history. Everywhere I went, I was looking at art. I am so happy I pushed myself out of my comfort zone because I learned a lot about myself and have memories that will last a lifetime!

My life-changing moment was exploring Florence, Italy through the culture and cuisine. I tried new dishes while learning about the culture! Immersing myself in another culture gave me a new perspective on life!

I was lucky enough to travel to Florence, Italy this past summer for studying abroad. The class I took was Fashion Design which was one of my favorite parts about being abroad. I was only there 3 weeks and I wish I could have stayed longer because it was such an amazing experience. It is probably one of the best times my entire life and now I am so excited to keep traveling. While I was studying abroad, I got to travel on weekends to different places in Italy by train! Also, I have become obsessed with paninis, risotto, and croissants; the food there was too good. If you are thinking about studying abroad, I highly recommend. (:

My study abroad experience was hands-down my favorite and most rewarding semester I had while in college. The mini weekend or day excursions around Italy included in the program were a great way to expose students to regions all over Italy. The excursions also included educational and fun tours and made the trips that much more enjoyable. ISA also offered cultural lessons, such as tours around the cities or cooking classes! I am very grateful for the ISA staff as they were always understanding, kind and available whenever my roommates or I needed them. The friendly and hospitable nature of the staff made it an easy transition living abroad on my own for a few months. While I thoroughly enjoyed my days and trips around Italy and other countries in Europe, I would say my favorite experience abroad was volunteering to teach English at a local primary school. ISA works with a few local primary schools around Florence to send study abroad students to help teach English- an opportunity I immediately jumped on. I loved the idea of immersing myself in the Italian culture by teaching at a local school, and it is always my favorite memory to talk about. Highly recommend this program and to take advantage of everything ISA has to offer. This program inspired me to want to work in the study abroad industry and to be able to provide an amazing experience for students, just like I had received.

It may seem crazy to give a program a perfect review. But when it was ran so smoothly and I was in an amazing country how could I not. The experiences I had and the friendships I made were more significant that I could ever imagine. The excursions offered with the program allowed me to travel with my new friends without the pressures of having to plan the trips myself. The courses I took were unlike anything I've ever taken in America, I went on class trips and gave performances. I could go on for hours about my amazing host mom. I strongly suggest living with a host family because it just adds a whole other level to your trip. I learned the language, had homemade meals, and met so many people. I wish I could go back everyday. I miss the city filled with so much art, beauty, history, and love. If you want a memorable study abroad experience this is the program you need to take.

I only spent three weeks in Florence but they were by far some of the best weeks of my life. I met amazing people and also had amazing experiences. I took an Italian wine and culture class. Going in, I knew nothing about wine, but now I consider myself to be pretty knowledgeable. My teacher did a great job. We went on a field trip one day to Montepulciano and Pienza. ISA provided excursions to Cinque Terre and Rome. Both trips were amazing! My apartment was in the same building as the ISA office and was a one minute walk from Ponte Vecchio. Being so close to the city center was amazing and I immersed myself in the culture as much as I could! I would do it again in a heart beat!

Studying in Florence was truly a dream, and ISA helped that dream come true. The staff in both America and Italy were fantastic, super helpful, and always making sure we had a great time. The excursions provided by ISA including but not limited to Cinque Terre, Rome, Siena, and San Gimignano (there were much more) were well planned, and both great day trips and weekend trips. The apartment I was placed in was very authentic and was right next to the famous Piazza della Repubblica and a 10 minute walk from the school FUA. Just an example of how the staff tried to make us feel welcomed and at home- they set up a Thanksgiving Feast for us to enjoy since we were so far from family on the holiday. I highly recommend this trip and studying with ISA you will not regret it!!!

ISA was a great program. Very nice and welcoming staff. Loved the two trips I went on with them. Had great housing and wonderful roommates who I still stay in contact with. Wish I was still in college so I could study abroad more!

I had an amazing time. Loved everything about my experience, so much I want to move back and work for a tour guide company or study abroad company! I just traveled around Italy and thought it was magnificent but there is so much more of Europe I want to see. ISA made me love my experience so much that I want to go back as soon as possible.

MY experience in Florence Italy was unremarkable. I speak about and refer to experiences I shared there as if it were only yesterday. The cultural immersion that was provided by my program was the best opportunity to truly live at a florentine. I was heavily involved in a sustainable agriculture program within my studies and was able to travel much of the farmland, vineyards and agriculture of Italy. My program also allowed me to do my own independent research with Italy and discover on my own with support of my local community. I would highly recommend this study abroad program and will travel back to Italy with the treasured memories every time! I could not have asked for a better experience abroad, every student should participate in this opportunity!

Great program! I love FUA. Wish I had more interactions with Italians.

I absolutely LOVED my program! ISA was so supportive and really cares for you. The location of my apartment was prime -- right in the city center. Academics were also so interesting and really broadened my horizons.

Awesome experience with great people!

I honestly cannot praise ISA and the Florence program specifically enough. This experience changed my life in every way possible--but in the most positive ways, of course (as cheesy as that sounds). If you are on the fence about this program or are still unsure, all I can tell you is that of all the things Study Abroad Alumni say when they get back from a trip, the one thing they don't say is that they regret doing it. Academics: For the most part, the classes were a lot of fun and really interesting. There was just one professor I had that wasn't as engaging as she could have been. Living Situation: The location was amazing!! I was two minutes from Ponte Vecchio. I felt very safe in the apartment and the living conditions were fine. The only thing was that our toilet was in our shower (no joke)! That was a little difficult at times. Overall, it was a good apartment, though. Program Administration: The on-site staff is especially amazing!!! Health and Safety: I felt safe most of the time. Just beware of pick-pockets and be smart. Use common sense and you'll be just fine. Social Life: I met so many people this summer who became my friends for life, locals, people from surrounding countries, and Americans.

I loved studying abroad in Florence, Italy through ISA. The staff was helpful and personable. When I had concerns they would talk them through with me and help me find a way to solve it. I was upset at first with how far away my homestay was from the main part of Florence. I had quite a long walk or had to ride the bus. That upset the American me who is used to having everything easy and was only looking for what a tourist looks for. However, the staff talked it through with me and I decided to stick with it. I am more than glad I did! My homestay mother made excellent traditional Italian, was very nice, and I began to feel like a local rather than a tourist. I had the privilege of interacting with local Italians rather than just other tourists. Florence is a wonderful, very beautiful town. I always had something great to eat, museum to visit, event to attend, and buildings to gaze at. It is not expensive to enter the many museums and basilicas around the town so do it! Just like anyplace in the world you should never walk alone at night and always be aware for pick pocketers since it is a touristy town! This should not scare you away from it as any major city or town is like that! As for the negative review about the classes at FUA. I took Cooking and Art/Architecture and LOVED it. There was barely any lecture in the cooking and I learned many tips that I use every day. That class made cooking so enjoyable and I can impress people with what I learned! The art/architecture class in phenomenal since I was studying in the famous "living museum." Instead of sitting around we saw ruins from the Romans/Etruscans, Medici palazzos, the Santa Croce Basilica, Botticelli's Birth of Venus and so much more. Definitely go! Health and Safety: Just like any tourist area you need to be careful and aware. Do not walk alone at night. If you are obviously drunk or wearing revealing clothing (both not very encouraged in Italy) you may get harassed. I feel like that is the way it is a lot of places though so do not let it scare you away. Just be smart!

I can say that studying abroad in Florence, Italy was the best semester of my life - hands down. And it probably wouldn't have been the same without the help of the ISA staff. The on-site staff was always there willing to help without being too hands on and annoying. They gave you a sense of freedom on this new journey, yet you felt safe knowing you had a family away from home. You could have a wonderful time abroad without any worries. Health and Safety: I never felt unsafe walking through the streets of Florence. Even when walking home late at night, there was always a lighted way and people around. Nothing too sketchy.

Firenze, Italia, what more do I have to say? My semester abroad with ISA was travel-packed, exhausting and absolutely unforgettable. Not one of my 111 day trip was spent uneventful. From the streets of Florence, the waterfalls of Morocco, the Alps of Austria, the Tuscan sunsets, the festivals of Spain, the Guinness Ireland and Mt. Etna in Sicily, my trip was just that - one of a lifetime. My decision to study abroad in Italy with ISA completely shaped my experience. Starting with the application process and registration, to our arrival in Rome, ISA was helpful, friendly and supportive. Before you leave the U.S., the ISA program schedules your classes, registers your visa paperwork, arranges your housing and thoroughly prepares you for what you may encounter along the way. Throughout my time abroad, the ISA Florence team was extremely engaged with the students and tended to our every question and request. The team organized tours, day trips, cultural activities, overnight trips, soccer games, holiday events and outings. Without the help and support of ISA my time abroad may have been spent worrying, planning or desperately trying to emerge into Italian culture. ISA made it an easy transition and allowed more time for excitement. Everyday I spent in Italy, I learned something new, tried something new or did something new. Your time abroad is short, there is no time to waste!

My trip began in Rome, Italy where I met the other fifty students’ part of this summer program and had my orientation. ISA organized walking and bus tours for us and brought us to a group dinner. During my four-day stay in Rome I had the opportunity to see the Roman Ruins, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican museum. After orientation, ISA brought us all on a bus to Florence, Italy. They brought us all to our respective apartments and gave us our keys. I lived in an apartment across from Pitti Palace with eight other girls. There were three bedrooms with three girls per room each with a bathroom. The nine of us all shared the kitchen, the washer, and the TV. Yes, I only said washer. As I lived independently in a new country, I had to learn new customs. In Italy, dryers do not exist and everything gets hung dry off the balcony or on a line. Italy also does not serve drinks in restaurants with ice. There was plenty to get used to, but nothing to hold me back from having fun and exploring a new country. During my three weeks in Italy I took a Physics class at the Florence University of the Arts. The credits I earned there were transferable to my major here at TCNJ. I walked to my class five days a week and was in class for about two hours. There were twelve people in my class; therefore my professor was able to supplement some of our class meetings with museum trips and labs. My days in Florence were all structured similarly. I was lucky to have my class in the morning so after class I would walk to the open market with my new found friends to buy food for lunch and dinner. Since the refrigerator was small and since food is so fresh in the markets, we bought our food on a daily basis. I had so much fun cooking in the apartment with the other girls and experimenting with new types of pastas and vegetables. Every other weekday, the girls in my room and I took day trips around Italy. We chose cities that we about an hour to an hour and a half out of Florence and could be reached by train and/or bus. The train station was definitely intimidating at first and very confusing, but after our first trip we felt confident and continued travelling. The day trips that I went to include San Gimignano, Signa, Pisa, and Lucca. On the weekends we took farther trips. The first weekend I followed the excursion ISA provided and went to Lake Garda and Verona. They once again brought us on tours, however this time it was a beautiful boat tour and a walking tour respectively. On the second weekend my friends and I went to Venice by EuroRail, one of the fastest European trains. Finally, on the last weekend, my roommates and I stayed in Cinque Terre to hike the five villages and stayed overnight to enjoy the beach the following day. Although, I was nervous and scared at first, in the end I did not want to leave and now I wish I could go back. I can confidently say that if I were to go back to Florence, Italy I would be very comfortable and know where to go and who to go to in the event of an emergency. The ISA staff based in Florence was one of the most amazing groups of people I have ever met. They became like family to me during my stay, helping me out when I needed it, showing me where to go for the best foods and entertainment, even walking me to the post office to send a letter back home. I appreciated their help so much and not once did I feel that they were tired of helping and caring for all of us. What I have shared with you is just a recap of my experiences in Italy this past summer. This does not even begin to describe all the amazing sites I saw, all the interesting people I met, all the friendships I have made, and all the great food I ate. I was privileged to have the opportunity to study abroad and even have my parents visit me there, but with appropriate planning, anyone can go. I definitely encourage anyone who has even thought of studying abroad to go and explore. My experience is one that I will never forget. St. Augustine once said, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” After this amazing experience I can say that I have definitely turned some pages in my book and I cannot wait to continue doing so in the future. Academics: I loved my Physics professor. He made the class fun and enjoyable during the summer session. We took trips to local museums to supplement the lectures. Living Situation: Even in the apartment with 8 other girls, the apartment was spacious. The apartment was located in a very convenient spot in Florence. Cultural Immersion: ISA offered many ways in order to become culturally immersed, I only found it difficult to participate in all these activities while being there for only 3 weeks. Program Administration: The staff was fun, welcoming, and extremely helpful!

I loved my ISA Study Abroad experience so much. The only bad part about my experience was my House mom, but I informed ISA of this throughout the trip and they did so much to help make it better for me. The staff was so helpful and friendly and genuinely excited about giving us an amazing experience. They planned so many things to get us acquainted and to make sure we were fully immersed in the culture in addition to making the transition a lot easier. My class was so interesting and I learned A LOT. The work was not difficult or intensive so I was still able to enjoy myself. The friends I made there I still talk to a year and a half later. We became like a family and I could not have asked for a better experience. I would recommend ISA to ANYONE and EVERYONE I know and I have continued to do so!!!!!