Program Reviews

I’m sharing this to warn future students about serious issues I experienced with Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM) regarding housing fees, lack of transparency, and transcript withholding.

When I applied for housing, I requested an apartment. Instead, I was placed in the S4 Hotel without consultation. While LdM’s documents vaguely referenced the possibility of a “supplemental housing fee,” they never disclosed the actual amount—$1,030—or that the S4 Hotel carried such a charge.

What’s worse: LdM’s own policy states that any supplemental fee must be communicated and paid within two days of assignment. I was never billed. Not once.
No invoice. No breakdown. No email. Nothing—not during my entire semester abroad.

Seven months after the program ended, LdM emailed me out of the blue claiming I owed $1,030. And now, they are refusing to release my academic transcript because I’m disputing this charge. I’m back in the U.S., trying to finish my degree, and this is putting my graduation at risk. All over a charge that was never disclosed or invoiced when it was supposed to be.

LdM has shown no willingness to resolve this reasonably, despite the fact that this situation has a clear and simple solution. I’ve had to begin involving a legal team to challenge what feels like financial coercion.

Please be cautious if you’re considering studying here.

Charges can appear months later with no warning.

You may be denied your transcript over hidden or improperly handled fees.

Administrative communication is slow, unclear, and unsupportive.

I truly hope no one else has to go through this. LdM needs to change how it treats its students and uphold its own policies before accepting more international applicants.

— Ava V.

Studying at Lorenzo de' Medici Institute in Florence with ASA (American Studies Abroad) was an unforgettable experience that blended rigorous academics with the vibrant culture of Italy. The location itself, in the heart of Florence, is an incredible asset. Every day felt like I was living in a museum, surrounded by Renaissance art and architecture. The courses at LdM are diverse and cater to a wide range of interests. I took mostly business and history classes, and both were taught by passionate instructors who were experts in their fields. The professors genuinely cared about our learning and were always available for extra help. The small class sizes allowed for a lot of interaction, and the discussions were always engaging. One of the best aspects of studying at LdM was the cultural immersion. The school organizes various excursions and activities that allow us to explore Florence and the surrounding areas. These experiences were not just fun but also educational, helping me understand and appreciate Italian culture on a deeper level. The student community at LdM is diverse, with people from all over the world. I made friends from different backgrounds, and the international environment was enriching. The school does a great job of fostering a sense of community through various social events and clubs. Studying at Lorenzo de' Medici Institute was a transformative experience. It not only enhanced my academic knowledge but also gave me a new perspective on the world. If you're looking for an educational experience that goes beyond the classroom, LdM in Florence is the place to be. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in studying abroad in Italy.

Lorenzo De Medici provided an amazing experience that will forever be in my heart. I have endless amounts of memories that will never fade. My favorite memories are sitting on the Piazza de Michelangelo drinking wine and eating cheese listening a women playing the guitar. I also love when the two guys play on the Ponte Vecchi at night while everyone stands around enjoying the view and the music. It's always a relaxing scene that puts all the stress away.

Studying abroad in the heart of Florence was the chance of a lifetime and was one of the best experiences of my life thus far. Everything from the cuisine, to the social scene were amazing and something that I had never imagined. One of the best parts of my study abroad experience was my teacher and the class I took regarding archaeology and Florence. I was able to learn so much about the history of Florence, Fiesole and what remains hidden underneath both of these historic sites. There is so much history and it is difficult to capture it all in a short time, but my teacher at Lorenzo De'Medici made it easy.

Studying at Lorenzo de' Medici gives you the unique opportunity to live and study in the heart of Firenze. Firenze is truly a walking town, which makes it easy to get lost, and thus get to know the old city as you take courses in different buildings throughout the city. Learning Italian is not necessary; however, will open up your experience to that many more incredible opportunities. Their is a large emphasis on relating whatever courses you take to the Italian culture: Italian food and wine, sociology of the mafia, all the arts and fashion. A great school that makes sure you get the most out of the experience as you'd like to.

I studied abroad with Lorenzo de Medici spring 2011. I came through marymount manhattan college in nyc. The Mosaic class, and the fresco restoration class were my two favorites. I loved our housing in particular because we were located in such a prime spot. Right on Bogo Pinti - we had access to all the most exciting night life as well as easy access to shopping, sight seeing and our classes! Every time I traveled on the weekends I was happy to come home to florence and my cozy little school.

While I was in Florence for 4 months, I attended the LDM school to take classes for my Studio Art Minor. With the guidance of the instructors, I was challenged and thus, improved immensely. The instructors were very helpful and I learned a lot during my time there. What is even more exciting is talking about an artist and their work in class and then going to the museum and seeing it in person the next day! Florence has excellent food, museums, and places for fun. The program also offers clubs for students to join in order facilitate social and cultural experiences. All in all, it was a good experience and I would repeat it again in a heart beat.

Studying abroad here was life changing. I would go back in a second. Academically the classes were challenging but I met some amazing professors. Socially I could not have had more fun in Florence, it was like a dream. I would recommend this program to anyone and everyone.

My life in Florence was honestly a daydream. I did what I wanted when I wanted and rarely had consequences. Obviously that made it a lot f fucking fun. The classes where a good time and I enjoyed the learning experiences I had. Florence has a place in my heart and always will.

Study abroad in Florence and you will live in one of the most beautiful places in Europe. I fell in love with Italy. Classes were great and the courses are perfect to study the language, art, and history of Italy. Definitely take a pairing wine and cooking class! LDM offers city tours, discounted tickets to soccer games or museum cards, and many clubs -- I advise you to join! Florence is a city you will never forget.