What is your favorite travel memory?
In general I think the Italians are some of the most generous, kind, and helpful people I know. I have such fond memories of having exchanges with them whether I was lost or asking a question in my broken, “ugly Italian”.
I also love going from town to town by train. I have great memories of looking out of my window as we floated passed the miles and miles of farm land that appeared to be “landscaped” into beautiful, colorful designs.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
A reoccurring theme I hear from our students is that this experience is life changing for them. From the moment they apply to SAI and are struggling through the visa process, to losing their luggage and becoming friends with the locals where they have their morning coffee.
They have had to adjust to another way of living, and become creative with how to dry their clothes and shop daily for fresh foods. I know a student who had done 4 semesters in Florence and then decided to do her next term in Texas, which she called “her semester abroad”.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I have quite a fondness for Sicily, so the program I would love to attend is Syracuse Academy. Not only is this part of the world rich in historical Greek landmarks and medieval castles, it boasts of the Mediterranean sunshine and quaint neighborhoods and of course delicious, interesting foods unlike other foods in Italy.
I remember walking along the wall that surrounded the small town of Syracuse taking in the ocean breeze. If feels as if Sicily has all of nature's gifts, from the mountains, hills, and especially the sea with its colors and crystal clear water. The courses offered at Syracuse Academy are unique because of this incredible part of the world, making this school like no other.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
The thing I’m most proud of is SAI’s attention to detail with our students. Our main concern is that we give the best service possible whether it is helping a student apply and enroll in the school of their dreams or being there for all our students once they have arrived at their destination.
We try and give students the individual attention that makes them feel we are going through this process with them, they are not just one of many.
With all the services we offer, students and their families feel secure when making the decision to study abroad with SAI.