What makes studying abroad in Florence a unique experience for students?
Vittoria: The greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world is found here. Florence’s historical center can be described as a treasure chest of art and architectural works; however Florence is also a lively and modern city, constantly trying to find a way to balance its past and present. Florence’s uniqueness comes from the fact that so much art and history is concentrated in a relatively small environment, which makes it an enjoyable place to live. Florence is also the largest and most important city in Tuscany, famous in the world for its amazing landscapes, its handicrafts exported all over the world, and it’s well-known food and wines.
How can students add to this experience by also partaking an internship?
Vittoria: For students who have taken at least four semesters of Italian, we offer the opportunity to intern in an Italian Company. Internships are not mandatory, however students who have enough Italian language background will find this kind of experience very rewarding. Interns will be totally immersed in the Italian working culture, and will have the chance to get new skills that will certainly make a difference in their résumés.
What can you tell us about the culture in Florence?
Vittoria: The first difference that a student will probably notice is the lifestyle: Italians still value the importance of combining the daily tasks with the need of slowing down to enjoy some important moments such as sharing meals and talking to each other.
Those students who will intern in an Italian firm should be aware that Italian economy is based on small firms where the sense of identity is very strong and flexibility is essential. Interns’ roles are difficult to define because she/he will most likely be required to collaborate with different people and deal with different aspects of the job.
What are some extra-curricular activities participants enjoy while studying/interning in Florence?
Vittoria: CAPA provides an informative walking tour of Florence the day after arrival. Students will learn to orientate in town and will familiarize with the most important monuments of the city. Welcome and farewell dinners in local restaurants and one day tour of Siena and San Gimignano are also included in the program.
CAPA offers its students a large variety of events through the MyEducation cultural program. This is a series of events organized, led or simply suggested by the Florence staff to help students integrate in the local culture.
Students will have the chance to explore the hills of Florence in a scenic hike to Fiesole, visit the wine region of Chianti, walk with us through the numerous local markets, go to the stadium for a Fiorentina match, volunteer for local associations or events, learn about different aspects of Italian culture thanks to our guest speakers, go to Cinema night with our Cinema professor, participate in a soccer competition, learn Italian with a language exchange and a lot more.
What is one piece of advice you would offer someone considering studying/interning abroad in Florence?
Vittoria: Read a lot before you travel to Italy and to Europe. This will help you to set your expectations and to shape your idea of what to expect. Read travel guides to learn about the culture, but do not forget newspapers where you can get a sense of what Italy and Europe are today. Attend pre-departure meeting if these are offered by your institutions and get in touch with students who have previously lived this experience. Don’t make the mistake of coming here expecting that Italy is just art, food and sunshine!! Reflect and read about diversity, about global issues and have an open-minded attitude towards new people and new experiences.
Anything else you would like to share?
Vittoria: Students should be aware in advance of what their cultural goal will be while studying abroad; this will help them in accomplish their dream and will help immensely their personal growth.
What level of Italian proficiency do students need to have before enrolling in this program? Is prior work experience necessary for the internship option?
Vittoria: To enroll in the standard CAPA Florence Program students do not need any Italian language background. We offer beginning and intermediate language courses (correspondent to four semesters).
Students who have already taken four semesters of Italian will have the possibility to enroll in the AIT program (Advanced Italian Track) and take Advanced Italian Language at the University of Florence. AIT students will also have access to History, Literature and Culture courses in Italian. For interns a little bit of prior work experience is required, since this will give them better chances of being accepted at an internship. Every kind of previous experience (including volunteering) should be included in their résumé.