Any study abroad is an adventure if you appreciate the beauty and history of other cultures. A study abroad program in Florence is a perfect example of this. While Florence's historical roots are astonishingly deep by American standards, it is in fact one of the more recently created cities from antiquity. Florence is rich in artistic achievements, as it was the center of the Renaissance and a favorite of poets worldwide.
These are all things you can read about in a book, however. You cannot put too much emphasis on what it is like experiencing a new city with such history for yourself.
Experiencing Florence on a study abroad is about waking up to the smell of the air of the Tuscan mountains, and breakfasting on a roll and coffee at any one of the outdoor cafes on the way to class. You can bet that within the week you'll have found a favorite spot where you can sit and enjoy the cool air and the company of your fellow students.
Then it's off to class, and there are a wide range of subjects for you to take. Humanities, architecture, fine arts and studio art are obviously great draws, given Florence's history. But there are also exceptional study abroad programs in social science, computer science, and communications. To say nothing of studying Italian, which you may or may not chose to do, but by living in Florence for a semester, you'll very likely become a native speaker anyway.
Of course these will all add credit towards your graduation. Beyond that, they will give you a unique study opportunity you wouldn't have by taking the same courses at home. You can study the architecture of the Medici tombs from a book or a film, but there is no media that can convey the size and grandeur of the sarcophagi within the Medici Chapel, or the ability to witness centuries that have passed when walking through the basilica di San Lorenzo.
When your studies are done for the day, the city is yours to explore. You can stay in town and visit the many other wonders of the Renaissance, or grab a bite to eat at any of the restaurants around town. Again, there are many to choose from, but you’ll find a favorite before long. You could also go on a day trip of your own on to Rome, Venice, or Sanremo if you can set aside the time. All of Italy is open to you by train, this represents a unique opportunity you should take advantage of.
There won't be many times in your life when you will be sitting at a desk and be able to say, "You know what? After lunch, I'm going to go see the Roman Colosseum," and then actually do so.
Look into taking an international study abroad in Florence with CEA today. There will never be a better time in your life to see the world.
