Sustainable Development Study Abroad Programs in Florence, Italy

Studying abroad in Zagreb, Croatia, was one of the most transformative experiences of my undergraduate journey. As a Biology major on the pre-medical track at Spelman College, I wanted an experience that would challenge me academically, immerse me in a different culture, and allow me to explore medicine beyond the traditional classroom setting. Zagreb gave me all of that and so much more. During my time abroad, I had the opportunity to participate in clinical shadowing at KBC Sestre Milosrdnice, where I spent much of my time observing cardiology and cardiovascular procedures, learning about patient care, and understanding how healthcare professionals collaborate in a hospital setting. One of my most memorable experiences was observing the medical team's response to a complication during a cardiac stent procedure. Witnessing the level of precision, communication, and critical thinking required in that moment strengthened my interest in cardiovascular medicine and helped solidify my aspiration to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. However, my experience was about much more than medicine. Choosing Zagreb was intentional. I wanted to travel somewhere unfamiliar, where I would have to step outside my comfort zone, navigate cultural differences, and become more independent. From learning basic Croatian phrases to exploring the city, connecting with my roommates, and experiencing everyday life in a new country, each day taught me something valuable about adaptability and confidence. As a first-generation college student and a Black woman pursuing a career in medicine, this opportunity also reminded me of the importance of representation and making international experiences accessible to students from all backgrounds. Studying abroad is not limited to students majoring in international studies or foreign languages. STEM students can also find programs that complement their academic interests and professional goals. My advice to anyone considering studying abroad is to research your options, ask questions, and remain open to destinations you may not have initially considered. Some of the most meaningful opportunities come from choosing experiences that challenge your expectations. I returned from Zagreb with more than memories and photographs. I returned with a clearer understanding of the physician I hope to become, greater confidence in my ability to navigate unfamiliar environments, and a deeper appreciation for the global nature of healthcare. If I had the opportunity to choose again, I would choose Zagreb every single time. This experience did not simply allow me to explore another country; it helped me discover a new direction for my future.

Authentica has been absolutely fantastic. Every little thing is accounted for and very well organized, literally down to specific details such as Authentica coordinating transportation so we arrive on time at places. Everything has been meticulously planned out. Authentica has also been really accommodating in taking feedback. When Stuart (university program staff) wanted us to have a little bit more free time to explore the city, within the next day Authentica moved things around and canceled a meeting so people could explore more.

Everyone from Authentica has been so lovely and hospitable. They know everything, and they've been so incredibly helpful. Just being able to message them simple questions around the clock is something that you wouldn't get back home. That level of hospitality has been really heartwarming, and we felt really confident here because of Authentica. A lot of us were concerned about culture shock or maybe not being able to fully transition into it. But within the first three days, Mugdha (Authentica staff) was just so welcoming that it was not an issue at any point. I've been very grateful to have been able to do this experience through Authentica. I've had an overwhelmingly positive experience, so I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Authentica really looked after us well. Having Anitha and Vedanth (Authentica staff) come around with us was really nice. Being able to ask them questions, find out more about the local culture here, and just being able to check practical things like "can I eat this salad at this restaurant?" was incredibly helpful. The cultural activities at the start were really well done.

I just wanted to thank you again for everything. Everything was great! I loved your organization, the intructors, and my host family. I am still not sure if I am coming again next Summer (I would love to), but if I do not, I will probably be there the following year. I miss you all and Florence very much. I still talk about my trip and look at my pictures a lot. I do not even know where to begin describing my trip to Florence because everything was unbelievable. The family I lived with was perfect: close location to everything I needed, amazing food, and very welcoming. The NECA faculty also helped us with whatever we needed. They showed us around the city as well as the other cities we visited as a group. Additionally, they took us out on evenings after school. I could not have asked for a more ideal trip than what I experienced during my four week stay, and hopefully I will be able to return soon.

I wanted to thank you guys for a a wonderful Spring semester! I made life-long friends, broadened my knowledge of art, fell in love with the city of Florence, and even learned some Italian! Loredana, I must thank you for being a wonderful teacher who always kept our attention in class! You have influenced me to take more art history classes and earn a minor in it! Francesco, thank you for always making us laugh! You both have shown great hospitality and kindness…

Ciao Loredana and Francesco!! I miss Florence VERY MUCH! I would like to thank you from the very bottom of my heart for the opportunity to fall in love with Italy and Florence as much as I did. I thank you for filling my mind with knowledge, and making learning fun. This experience was something I will never forget. The Fall semester started one year ago, and I have thought about my study abroad experience every single day since I have been home. I cannot wait until the January term, because I will be arriving once again in Florence. I have been studying the Italian language, and the history of Italy since I was younger, and I have been to Italy a handful of times before, but to be able to have class standing outside churches, or inside museums looking at statues, and paintings that I used to look at in textbooks, gave me a feeling that I think everyone should feel. It is indescribable. For two years I searched to find the perfect study abroad program, and NECA has definitely exceeded all of my expectations. Thank you for caring for us as much as you did, but also giving us a feel of independence. I cannot wait to see you both in January!

From a student’s parent: Thank you for your work in getting Julie into the program! I know you worked extra hard for her in finding scholarships for her, and we really appreciate it. We are all so excited for her to experience Italy; the culture, the history, the sites, and especially the people. Julie has been reading on line about NECA and has read only glowing things about the program, so I know she will be in good hands. When we first talked, I honestly didn’t think we would be able to make this work, but thank you for finding the scholarships. We are all now learning Italian, and gathering books from the Library about where she will be going and such. It is fun for us too! Thank you again helping make this possible.

I had the most wonderful time being totally immersed in the Italian culture. The food, people, attitudes, and the overall atmosphere was so unique. I looked forward to the next day every night when I went to bed, wondering what new things I would learn and experience. You can’t imagine being surrrounded by so many new things and trying to take it all in at once; you just don’t know where to start. In the school itself, all of the NECA staff were so friendly, helpful and eager to show you all of the things they knew and wanted you to know and experience as well. The trips to the different cities in Italy (Siena, Rome, Pisa, Orvieto) gave an even wider perspective on the whole of current Italian life as well as its history and the many stories that are held in the ancient buildings and works of art. Please send my love to the host family I stayed with (Maria, her husband, and children). They made my experience there so pleasant. They received me, Rosanna, and Waaaaaaaayyyyne so sweetly and made us feel right at home. I will never forget how good they were to us. I will never forget how good you Francesco and Loredana were to us. We did have so much fun with you and my family benefited from the cooking classes we had at your house because i cook them Italian meals every now and again. I never would have known what real “mozzarella” was if it weren’t for you either and I did find a place that sells it here in the States, so yay! Well, I am writing a book here, so I will end here and just say that I miss you all and I will send you some pictures soon that you may want to post on the website too. Take care! -Hy comma Kristen ( io, io, io!!!! )

Ciao! Thanks again for an amazing program. I had the time of my life! I really miss you and Florence and the rest of NECA. I hope everything is going well! Allora…. when I get back into the States (I am still in Paris) I am going to send you a CD of my pictures – maybe you could use some for the website. Take care. Ciao! Alley

Words cannot describe the experiences I had while at NECA in Italy. The weeks spent in Florence were some of the most memorable times of my life. I met great people, saw amazing things, and learned about a culture that is part of my ancestry. I would not have passed up that opportunity for the world. Anyone who has the chance to travel to this beautiful country should take advantage of it. You will NOT be sorry! All of the instructors (and director) were of course wonderful and made us feel very welcome. They also had a lot of patience with us which was very much appreciated. I miss all of them so much. I could write a whole book on how wonderful my time there was. I cannot wait until I have the opportunity to get back there.

Hi Francesco … How I’ve missed you all since I’ve been back. When NSCS contacts me again, I’ll tell them what I really thought of the program … It will all be glowing of course. Thank you all at NECA for my unique experience there.

Ciao, Francesco! I hope this finds you doing well and enjoying your time! I miss Florence, Italy, and the other NECA students more than you can imagine. It was an amazing experience and I feel very fortunate that I had the opportunity not only to learn as much as I did in the classroom from my instructors, but to also learn so much from you, Loredana, and others in the community I came across. I will continue my studies in Italian next year… and as of now, I plan on going to Italy again for three or four weeks next year for conversational italian. Take care and keep in touch! All my best, Derek (Chip-Chop).

My time with NECA made me feel welcomed instantly. The locations of the apartment and University allowed me to walk through a safe environment full of life and culture. You'll never run out of things to do! Independent exploration is allowed but there are also great options for guided trips, i.e. Pisa, Chianti, Piazzale Michelangelo. Francesco and Loredana are always there if you need them. 10/10 would recommend.

Ciao, Francesco! How are you doing? As you might have guessed, I’m safely back in the states : ) . Let me tell you, Florence was definitely worth it. I had a great time, and as far as I know all students did as well. From everyone I’ve talked to, we all miss Italy very much. For me, everything went perfectly and smoothly, thanks to the personal attention you provided for us. I couldn’t have imagined a better time. I trust you are enjoying the rest of the NECA term. Say hello to Loredana : ) Have a great time and thank you very very much for a great term. Best wishes to you! regards, Cassandra

I had a lovely time here, although it was not without flaws. The amenities were not great especially considering how much we paid to be here. The company guilt tripped and body shamed us. But I made innumerable new friends and had experiences that I will cherish forever.

Very nice experience, learned a lot. People I’ve met here are now friends I will still be in contact with. The internship was where I learned new skills and networked with people within the fashion industry and got inspired by being here abroad

Everyone needs to go abroad. It is awesome experiencing so many cultures. Professors while abroad are very helpful and care about their students. I really enjoyed getting to know my professors and learning not only class content but also from their real life experiences. Traveling on the weekends was obviously my favorite part of this experience. I was able to visit a bunch of different countries. Wish I could stay longer.

By getting outside of my comfort zone as much as possible, I was able to experience parts of the world while figuring out new things about myself! Staying in a home stay is completely worth it because you get to practice your Spanish and meet incredibly interesting locals!

Living in Spain was such a great experience! From the food to culture and things to do, Spain has it all. I´m definitely going to miss my time here and all the great people I met. Studying abroad helped me grow so much as a person, and I won´t ever forget this experience.