Villanova University - IES Abroad Siena

Great way to see all of Italy and to get a taste of Italian culture! Make sure to take advantage of traveling around Italy. The trip is only 6.5 weeks so do not have too many places on your list to see. I recommend going to a select few cities and really spending your time there to familiarize yourself with the culture and people. This trip was incredible and I met many friends whom I'm sure that I will keep throughout my entire lifetime. Have fun on your trip!

The best time ever. Enough said. Being in a small, Italian town as opposed to the touristy cities really allows you to immerse more into the Italian culture. In addition, I think the smallness of Siena really encourages everybody to act as a group and really promotes people to become amazing friends through the program. The food was amazing, the scenery was beautiful, I always felt safe. Needless to say, I'm sitting here in America wishing to be back in Siena.

Siena is truly a fantastic place to study abroad. Nestled in the Tuscan country side, the city offers an authentic experience of Italy providing many sites, restaurants, and shops without feeling at all touristy. Siena is small enough to offer a relaxing atmosphere upon return from traveling on weekends (which are all left open to the students) yet large enough that there is plenty to do within the city itself to easily occupy time during the week. These experiences are complemented and enriched by the program's several planned trips that immerse the student in all aspects of the Italian culture. Additionally, the program’s staff members are knowledgeable, friendly, helpful, and realize the once-in-a-lifetime nature of this trip. I would highly recommend studying abroad in Siena.

I learned a great deal from my experience in Siena, both about myself and the surrounding culture. The program gives each student ample opportunity to explore the town of Siena, and also of Italy and even nearby countries. I would definitely recommend this study abroad experience.