FUA - Stony Brook Fall 2015

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Stony Brook University

F U A F l o r e n c e U n i v e r s i t y o f t h e A r t s

Florence Italy, Fall 2015

FUA FUA FLORENCE UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTSFLORENCE UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS

This semester’s project is a reflection on the experience at FUA, from before our students departed for their

adventure to the discoveries they made in Florence. Each perspective is unique but each expresses a desire to

explore through this experience, both internally and externally. Despite different perceptions of the experience, a

common thread is the engagement with both the community and to FUA. I would like to thank all of the students

from the Stony Brook University program for their contributions to the project and for all that their presence

has brought to FUA. Although the Fall 2015 session has come to a close, you are all forever part of the FUA

community. I hope that your experience has broadened your vision of life and I wish you all the best for a bright

and dynamic future.

In bocca al lupo!

M e l i s s a R o s s i

SBU Program Resident Director

Introduction

S t o n y B r o o k U n i v e r s i t y P r o g r a m

F a l l 2 0 1 5

STUDENT PROFILESSTUDENT PROFILES


Alexandra AlimarasMajor: Communication

Home University: SUNY Geneseo

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected that my initial adjustment to this new city would be rather easy, having grown up in such a large city, and I was very excited, as well as, a little anxious. I assumed that all Florentine people would speak fluent English, and be very friendly towards new tourists.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that my initial adjustment to the city wasn’t as easy as I originally thought it would be. I constantly found myself getting lost whenever I went anywhere. I found making purchases in stores more complicated then it felt like it should

be. To my surprise, not everyone in Florence spoke English fluently.

I became a Florentine when I went on a walk and explored the outskirts of the city on my own. I sat in a park and watched some children play soccer. After, I sat in a coffee shop and ordered in Italian and watched an Italian TV show. I remember walking home and really feeling like I had a successful day.

My most memorable moment at FUA was

going to the weekly Hip-Hop class at the school gym with my roommates. None of us were very good, but dancing to the music together was a

lot of fun. The class was a great way to relax after a long day of classes, as well as a great workout.

The best class/instructor at FUA was my Italian teacher, Dario D’Ambrosa. Dario spoke Italian, as well as English. His lessons were composed of very detailed power points, which he would also email to us after class to study. I found this very helpful. Dario took our class on mini filed trips where we practiced Italian and explored Florence. Overall, Dario taught me a lot and made learning enjoyable.

STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY

Allison ConwayMajor: Health and Human Services

Home University: University at Buffalo

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected that meeting people from Italy living in or nearby Florence would be easy. It seemed like something that would be done without much effort considering we are staying in the heart of a major city within Italy.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that meeting Italians is more difficult than I would have imagined. I believe as people moving away from home we tend to gravitate towards th i ngs tha t a re f am i l i a r. These

settings lead us to find people who are more like us than unlike us.

I became a Florentine when I started to enjoy sitting down at a café for lunch rather than looking for something to take on the go. Back home on school days it is a constant rush during lunchtime. In Florence I have learned to actually take a break during this time and enjoy my day at a slower pace.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Developing Mind Potential with Prof. Valentina Dolara. This class is

something that should be offered in all universities. It allows students the opportunity to truly open up their minds and understand how to live within the present moment. Prof. Dolara teaches the class in such a way that students can feel comfortable asking questions and staying curious on the topic.

My favorite Italian word/phrase is “bella/o” because it sums up how I feel about everything I have experienced or encountered during my time in Florence.


Bridget BehanMajor: Psychology


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected that everyone would speak English! Based on my research, it seemed like every local Italian would be very good at speaking English. While many people I’ve met are well-versed in English, it is definitely not always the case in restaurants or cafes.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was Italians can be very friendly, but if they don’t think you’re making an effort to learn Italian, don’t expect them to make an effort to speak English!

I became a Florentine when I’m walking down streets alone and I noticed that street vendors stopped trying to sell to me.

Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Walked 5 miles every day (for the most part), Became a regular at a café, Had caffe late or cappuccino every day, Being able to order what I want in Italian and be responded to in Italian, not English

My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Come si dici…” which means “how do you say…?” It shows Italians that you want to learn their language.


Nicole CardinoMajor: Communications and Business


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected To be completely blown away by everyone and everything. I have never traveled outside the United States before, and had been craving a new environment to grow. I expected to have extreme culture shock, as I have not been subjected to living on my own. At school, I had lived in a dorm room but had a meal plan and guidance from Room advisors. Here, I knew I would be living on my own with 7 other girls, some of which I did not know.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was it was beautiful! In the first few days, I was a kid in a candy store. I wanted to see, taste, and touch everything. The teachers here are so passionate and do everything they can to bring out the most in their students. I found it surprisingly that you couldn’t just sit in a café and journal; you always have to buy something or pay a fee to receive wifi.

My most memorable moment at FUA was when I sat in a garden and wrote in my journal for 2 hours. It was at this point I really felt myself growing and maturing into the woman I want to

be. I have been exposing a creative side that is normally kept hidden in the shadows. I believe the classes here at FUA bring out sides of us that are normally beat down by rigorous classes at our home universities.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Prof. Isabella Martini. I believe she is an extraordinary woman who is extremely driven and passionate. I have her for Public Relations, and each Monday I go to class she asks how my weekend had been and genuinely seems interested in my response. I truly look forward to seeing her each week.


Caroline FalkMajor: Accounting and Marketing

Home University: SUNY New Paltz

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected Florence to be more of a town or rural. I pictured some areas to have tall city-like buildings (like it does have everywhere). I did not expect to experience homesickness. I expected FUA to be more like traditional classes or different like Italian styles.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was more of an actual city. I am happy it is a city because I can go to a rural town so easily. I did not think I would have homesickness, since I was fine going into college, but it is

much different than being a 2-hour drive from home and I did not think about it that much.

I became a Florentine when I figured out how to get home from almost anywhere in the City. I feel as if knowing how to navigate around the city that I am finally a part of Florence and the community.

My most memorable moment at FUA was engaging in the courses I am taking. They are unlike any of my classes at my home university and they are very enjoyable. I love how they are interactive – with labs, tours, tastings, and outings.


Chantall SanchezMajor: Political Science | Minors: International Studies and Women and Gender Studies

Home University: SUNY Stony Brook

When I was preparing for Florence, I expected to hear only the Italian language being spoken amongst the local people. I was very nervous about communicating while grocery shopping, clothes shopping, and especially getting directions to places because I did not know a single word of the Italian language. I expected to get by pretty well with just my Spanish speaking skills, but I didn’t know to what extent. Then, when I arrived in Florence, I was so surprised to learn that most local people spoke both English and Italian. I forgot to take into

account that Florence is a tourist city, so more than one language is often spoken. I felt more comfortable approaching people after knowing they would understand me. This also encouraged me to learn as much Italian as possible because I wanted to be able to speak to the people in their native language. I became a Florentine when I was walking to my apartment and suddenly, someone asked me for directions to Via Nazionale from the train station. I felt so comfortable helping the man out. I knew exactly where the street was and how to properly get

there, so he wouldn’t get lost again. Presently, I really feel like Florence is my second home because I can get around the city more easily. The best class at FUA is my Exploration of Wine Culture in Italy class. I love that class because I learned information that is atypical in the United States. Wine is not a huge part of the American culture; in Italy however, it is a big part of the culture. I enjoy learning about the different styles of wine and wine productions. Prof. Carlotta is also very sweet and informative when teaching the class.


Samantha GuglielmoMajor: Theatre Design and Minor in Art History


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected that most people would be able to speak english to me and that it wouldn’t be that different from what I remembered when I traveled here 7 years ago.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that although people can speak some english it was more polite to try to speak Italian to them. Also that Florence was an inviting community with many hidden treasures.

I became a Florentine when I went back to same the place at Market Centrale and the woman who ran the stand remembered me and gave me some free juices.

My most memorable moment at FUA was when my Gardens of Love class had to figure out how to take the bus to get to a garden without our instructor. It was entertaining and fun class bonding while learning something useful.

The best class/instructor at FUA was food, culture and society. I loved learning about food and trying all different kinds of foods from Tuscany. The best part was the trip to Modena and Parma.


Mae BerglasMajor: Art Education

Home University: Virginia Commonwealth University

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA I had no idea what to expect because I had never left the US.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was life here isn’t so different from back home.

I became a Florentine when I abandoned hopes of having American coffee and embraced the espresso culture.

My most memorable moment at FUA was Climbing to the top of the Duomo and seeing Florence from a birds-eye view.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Cultural Perspectives because I enjoyed learning about the lifestyle and history of the country I was living in.


Marisa BellancaMajor: Dietetics

Home University: SUNY Oneonta

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected it to be very different. I thought everyone would speak English and I thought I would be looked at funny. I thought everyone would think I was an American but to my surprise I’ve had more people mistake me as an Italian than look at me weird for being an American.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was was many people didn’t speak English and the c ity had many Italian residents. They were all very friendly and it amazed me how many people

were willing to work with me if I wanted to order something in Italian or practice speaking my Italian for my class. They were very kind and helpful and I really appreciated that.

I became a Florentine when I finally had a Mediterranean meal that wasn’t pizza or a panino. It included an appetizer, first course, second course and dessert. It was the best meal I’ve had so far in Florence and it gave me a chance to take in the culture.

My most memorable moment at FUA was when I went on the school trip to

Capri and chair lifted to the top of the island. It was the most breath taking thing I have ever seen and I would do it again 500 more times.

My favorite Italian word/phrase is “attraversiamo” which means “we cross over” and I learned the term before I came to Italy and it inspired me to travel the world and “cross over” to a life I haven’t lived yet full of open-mindedness and adventure. I’m so glad I experienced this opportunity and will recommend it to anyone.


Mary-Ammielle NicholsMajor: Mathematics and Economics


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected to arrive and find myself involved in so many new experiences and people. I expected to spend a lot of time traveling all over Europe, and seeing as many well-known sights as possible. I thought that the city of Florence would be similar to other Italian cities I had been to, very busting and full of people from all over the world. Florence was everything I expected and so much more; I did not imagine I would fall in love with Florence such as I did.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that it was a beautiful city. There are many historical sights,

beautiful buildings, and places to go. However, there are incredible hidden treasures and escapes all throughout the city. It is easy to discover something new every day. I found you can spend days wandering and exploring the city, or simply sitting in the park and reading. There are so many restaurants, sights, and places to stumble upon, and every day is an adventure.

My most memorable moment at FUA was arriving to Florence for the first time. The entire staff was friendly, and our apartment was amazing. My apartment mates had a great first dinner, followed by walking around and exploring Florence the next

day. It was a great way to start the experience, and was an indicator of the incredible adventure to come.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Prof. Dario D’Ambrosa. Dario was my Italian professor for the first three weeks. He brought so much fun and spirit to the class that I truly did not feel like I was attending a class. I learned to communicate at a basic level in such a short amount of time, which helped me to feel comfortable in Florence. Dario always helped the class and made every lesson fun, and the whole class would without a doubt leave smiling.


Rachel Radovich-ChuMajor: Psychology


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, my expectations were based upon the experiences of former FUA students who were members of my sorority at SUNY Geneseo. The girls praised Florence’s views, historical landmarks, and, most of all, the food. I asked them about adjusting from life in Geneseo to Florence and they couldn’t quite explain their experiences in terms I could understand. “You have to go with an open-mind,” they said. So, my preconceptions were positive with a hint of nerves.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that not everyone in the FUA program was as eager and willing to enjoy being abroad, criticizing the narrowness of the streets, unfamiliar cuisine, and language barrier. I found that although some of these aspects were inconveniences, they painted the picture of Florence I had wanted so badly to see: a country unlike my own in so many ways with nuances that had been a part of its history for centuries.

I became a Florentine when I cooked my first family style meal for my apartment. At the supermarket, I was forced to take the language barrier head on and put to use the little Italian I had learned in my first few weeks at FUA. In the end, the culmination of communicating with the locals, trying my grandfather’s recipe on my own, and sharing a meal with my roommates gave me a feeling that can only be described as “home.”


Rebeka GattoMajor: Accounting


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I had more expectations about my potential study abroad experience. I expected to make a lot of friends, be busy constantly, travel every weekend and have the time of my life. I didn’t have many expectations of Italy and Florence itself. I wanted to be open-minded. I understood that I was going to a foreign country and things would be diff erent.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was Florence was more beautiful and incredible than pictures and my imagination. Shortly after arriving, I knew I had chosen the perfect place to spend the next four months.

I became a Florentine when I was excited to come “home” after a weekend trip. My second weekend in Italy, I took a three day trip to the Amalfi Coast. After a long, exhausting weekend of traveling I was looking forward to coming back to my “home” in Florence.

My most memorable moment at FUA was when I arrived at the airport in Florence. The FUA staff welcomed us with big arms. They had everything prepared for me and made adjusting very easy.

The best class/instructor at FUA was beginner Italian with Prof. Dario D’Ambrosa. Every day for the three weeks I had beginner Italian. This was my favorite class because I enjoyed learning the language and Dario made the class fun. Coming into Italy, I didn’t know any Italian. Now, I am able to order food, shop, and converse in Italian.

My favorite Italian word/phrase is “rocambolesco”: fantastic, incredible, nail biting; a spirit of swashbuckling adventure.


Sarah Jennie GordonMajor: Fashion Merchandising


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I did not have many expectations. I had been to Italy before on a school trip in high school for 10 days. We traveled to different parts in Italy, so I was able to learn a little about the country. I expected that I was going to travel on the weekends and make new friends. However, I was nervous about coming on my own.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that the culture is somewhat different than I was used to. For example, at restaurants there are different rules. I learned that you have to pay for water, there is usually

a 2 euro service charge per person, you do not have to leave a tip, but you do have to ask for the check! It is common to spend time socializing in a restaurant.

I became a Florentine when I started to know my way around. I felt at home in Florence and a part of the local community when someone asked me for directions. It eventually became funny to see tourists with my friends here, because we felt that we were not longer tourists. We had spent enough time here to get used to the culture and the way of life here in Florence.

My most memorable moment at FUA was before classes started when they had a welcome buffet. It was nice to see all the people that I would be going to school with and see new faces. Before this day, I had only talked to my roommates and the people that were on the plane with us. It was an exciting day and a nice event that FUA had for us.


Arif ShamudeenMajor: Economics


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected to be slowed down a bit since I don’t speak Italian. I thought that getting around and going out would’ve been more difficult.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that a lot of the places I have been, people speak some English. It has made adjusting much more efficient. But there are still some instances when there is miscommunication and things are understood by either parties.

My most memorable moment at FUA was the Field trip to Colonnata. When I went there, I experience Italian cuisine that was more than just pasta and pizza. I tried some very interesting things, especially the lardo on warm bread. Even though I am not a big fan of wine, I can honestly say that the white wine they paired with the meal was very good.

The best instructor was Prof. Gianni Rossiello. He took the cultural perspective class on the connecting cultures walk around the city. He made learning the history of the city very interesting. I didn’t think that the history of architecture could be that interesting.

My favorite Italian phrase is “Cin cin”, it means cheers.


Eveleen TsaiMajor: English

Home University: SUNY Binghamton

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected to have to be careful of pick pocketers and that I would be able to survive with just speaking in English. I was actually prepared to be homesick and believed I wouldn’t have a great time.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that Florence is a relatively safe city as long as you are being smart. The people here don’t all speak English, which is okay since we are in Italy, but they are always kind and willing to help.

I became a Florentine when I first left Italy in October and instinctually kept greeting with “Ciao,” and saying “Grazie” in Germany. And after a long weekend in another country, I couldn’t wait to go back to my apartment in Firenze to eat gelato.

The best class/instructor at FUA was my Fashion, Media and Culture class with Prof. Francesca Caltabiano. Her personality is reflective of the charming and kind-hearted people in Italy and she truly cares about her students having a great learning experience.

Items checked off my Florence bucket list: climbing to the top of the Duomo, watching the sunset at Piazza Michelangelo, buying pastries from the secret bakeries and trying out over twenty gelaterias.


Kierstin VermeulenMajor: Broadcast Journalism

Home University: University of Maryland

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected that the language barrier would be a big problem because I don’t speak any Italian. I was nervous that I was going to have a hard time getting around because Florence is not a familiar city to me.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was I found that people were really friendly and willing to help you any way they could. I also discovered that Florence is a town filled with many students just like me and that it is really central to other parts of Italy.

I became a Florentine when I first went to the grocery store by myself and had to figure out how to shop in a place where I could barely read the signs, interact with people that didn’t speak my language, figure out how to weigh my fruit, and realize that I asking for a bag is more of a process than believed to be.

My most memorable moment at FUA the Abs & Legs workout class I took that’s offered on Wednesdays with Coach Polloni. I had so much fun during that.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Love, Sex, and Marriage During the Italian Renaissance with Prof. Martina Ghiandelli because she is so adorable and makes learning such a pleasure. Also, this subject is really fascinating to get a peak at what daily life was like for people during the Italian Renaissance.

Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Go to the Boboli Gardens


Joanna PerlmanMajor: Business Management


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I wasn’t sure what to expect because I wanted to come to Florence with an open mind. However, I expected to have my regular lifestyle, and be in a different place at the same time. I wanted to feel like I was at home. I thought that I would make friends within the Italian community, and not just with friends from the program. I am the type of person who embraces new experiences regardless of my expectations.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was expectations tend to derive from experiences from previous circumstances. At home, I’m used to driving everywhere, buying things in one place, and feeling comfortable most of the time. I found that the American culture and the Italian culture are two completely different worlds. There is no Target

or Walmart where you can buy food, electronics, clothes, etc all in one place. In addition, I discovered that sometimes it is insulting to ask for extra things to put on your food, such as parmesan, pepper, pesto, etc. While I did expect to meet more locals, I realized that in order to do so you have to be willing to explore different areas of Florence and the greater Tuscany region. Perhaps this is the case because the city center of Florence is heavily crowded with tourists.

My most memorable moment at FUA was when I went on one of FUA’s educational field trips to Naples, Capri, and Pompeii. I had a great time because I was able to see and learn about a different region of Italy. My favorite part of the trip was Pompeii because I saw ruins from when the Romans were around.

The trip leader, Umberto, made the trip memorable because he not only gave us an excellent tour, but he also gave us advice on life in general.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Ethics in a World Context. The class wouldn’t be my favorite without Professor Traxler because he is one of the most knowledgable people I have ever met. In addition, he shows he cares a lot about his students by having class discussions and answering any questions a student may have. I never would have considered taking a philosophy course before, but Professor Traxler positively influenced my opinion on the subject matter.

My favorite Italian word/phrase is “ti amo”

Eleanor Noone Major: Psychology


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA I expected to have the time of my life. I expected delicious food and great quality wine. I expected a tiny apartment and all my classes to be in a University building. I expected to be in love with my classes and to love it here. I was nervous about my roommates and how I was going to get around the city.

When I arrived at Florence I thought I was in a dream. Pulling up to my apartment on a tiny street with a million green shutters. I found it to be more touristy than I was expecting. I found that my roommates are awesome and better than I could’ve even hoped for. I found my classes were amazing and much more relaxed than at home, but on opposite sides of town. The food and wine is greater than I could’ve ever imagined.

I felt most at home and a part of the Italian community when I went to the other side of the Arno. I got espresso from Libreria Cafe la Cite and it had a very American vibe. They had vintage couches and played Jimi Hendrix. I went out to eat at Osteria Santa Spirito and had a delicious meal and made friends with the people next to me. Then I went to Palazzo Pitti during sunset and sat outside and listened to music. I felt most like I belonged in Florence that day.


Grace McDermott Major: Psychology


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected all of Florence to look like the center of Florence with its cobble stone streets and bustling markets. I also did not expect that the campus of FUA would be so spread out through out Florence! These expectations lead to some initial frustration however, once I accepted them I was able to view these frustrations as experiences which would increase my independence.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that my expectations of what living in Florence would be like were a little different from the reality. I was also unaware of certain challenges I would be facing such as navigating Italian grocery stores and line drying my clothes.

I became a Florentine after returning home from my first weekend trip. The first weekend of the semester my roommates and I took a trip to the Amalfi Coast. Although I had a wonderful time in Amalfi by the end of the trip I found myself very eager to return home to Florence where I felt I was a part of the community.

The best class at FUA was Cultural Perspectives: Awareness, Exposure, and Engagement. I believe this is the best class at FUA because it has provided me with an overview of so many different Italian topics. From current events, history to language and food culture; I feel like this class has presented me with such an interesting variety of information while still being extremely relevant to my experience here as student studying abroad.

My favorite Italian word is “andiamo”, which means, let’s go. I find andiamo to be a motto for my study abroad experience as a whole urging me to explore!

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected to be surrounded by beautiful yet very different surroundings. I also expected our campus to be in one central location and was surprised by the separation of the buildings. My overall expectation was to be in a world that is the typical image of Italy, cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was I started to see that Italy is not just cobblestone and architecture but specifically depending on your location is very different ranging from more central city areas to more residential areas. I obviously also found that just like New York

the city is complex and different depending on your perspective, your background, and what you make of your surrounding.

My most memorable moment at FUA was actually on a walking tour after my culture class. Frankly at the time I was tired and would have rather been home but instead I took a short field trip with my class to Fiesole. When we arrived there we took a short tour and than we walked to the top of a hill to overlook the view of the city. When we arrived at the view I was speechless. We had an entire view of the city and because it was at night the entire city was twinkling. This moment was surreal and made me appreciate the opportunity I had been given.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Chocolate: Therapy to Pleasure class. First off just by going the name itself the class is one that is not only interesting but a common topic most people are interested in. The class is both informative and hands on and allows us to learn about Chocolate and have the chance to taste and bake different Chocolate goods. The class is much deeper than just trying chocolate and our instructor really pushes us to look deeper into chocolate, its benefits, and the different qualities in Italy.

Courtney LyverMajor: Communication Studies



Maria Elena LopezMajor: Psychology


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected to have a difficult time adjusting and to a new culture. I expected to feel out of place and homesick for the first few weeks. Needless to say, I also expected to struggle communicating with Italians because I am not fluent in Italian. The language barrier was one of my main concerns because if I had otherwise been fluent I would have felt more confident.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was I was so amazed by how beautiful the city was that I had forgotten about all my worries of not being able to adjust to a new culture. However, after the honeymoon phase my worries kicked in. Nevertheless, realizing that my roommates had

felt the same way about adjusting to a new culture made me feel less anxious about the process.

I became a Florentine when an old man from the Sant’ Ambrogio market began to recognize me. So now every time I approach his stand he knows who I am and knows that I will be buying buffalo mozzarella and schiacciata bread. It honestly makes me feel welcomed and more integrated into the local community.

My most memorable moment at FUA was the Chat Pal event. Although I did not sign up for the program it was a requirement for one of my classes to attend the initial meeting and I’m glad it was. I really enjoyed this experience because I was forced to

put into practice the little Italian I had learned. I was quite embarrassed but in the end I was able to carry out a conversation.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Prof. Giovanni Rossiello. Although is not one of my instructors he is a wonderful tour guide for the city walks for my Cultural Perspective class. I admire him so much for knowing a lot about the buildings in Florence. He is able to explain everything so well and is always ready to answer any questions we have. He makes the city walk very enjoyable and I have learned so much because of him.

Elizabeth Ingalls Major: Business Economics

Home University: SUNY Cortland

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected many things. I expected a good education that I was not used to, an adversity in my classes, and the chance to travel around the world like I have never been able to do before. I had heard prior to coming that the food here was amazing, so I was hoping that was true. I heard it was a very easy place to travel from and a place where many people travel.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was what I expected and more. The food is incomparable to anything I’ve ever had, it’s just so fresh. On top of that every fruit and vegetable that is grown is just expected to be organic, so its not even labeled. Italy exceeded my expectations in

each and every way. It is such an easy place to travel to and from, and make the experience here that much better.

I became a Florentine when I started knowing the places I loved to eat, grocery shop, run, explore, shop. Also once you can begin to start understanding the people around you and seeing the things that happened so often. The first time I started to feel at home was when I stopped being asked by the venders if I wanted to buy anything because I walk by the same ones so frequently they know I’m a resident not a tourist.

The best class/instructor at FUA was my global economy teacher. This professor is great, he tries to connect

to the class on each an every level. He has a voice that projects throughout the room and makes it impossible not to participate. This is my only 9am class so sometimes that makes it difficult to bring myself to get there, but the way he lectures makes it impossible to not listen. He also values your opinion which makes it easier to answer his questions and participate in class.

My favorite Italian word/phrase thus far is “prego”. It is used for many different meanings, and I’m not sure if we will every know the actual word or phrase people are trying to say to us. Its one of those funny words that has about 5 different, if not more, meanings.


Desaree FraserMajor: Psychology Sociology / Minor in Italian

Home University: SUNY Purchase

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected to live in a more school environment. I thought that I was going to live on one apartment building with all of the other students from my school back at home. I thought there would be one cafeteria where everyone would have, at least lunch and breakfast together and we would use this facility on a daily basis. I thought that everyone would do pretty much the same activities and we would be in class most of the week.

Then I arrived in Florence! I found that I was forced to be more independent. I had to cook for myself. There wasn’t any facility to use on daily basis like a schools dining hall. There was no janitors to clean our living spaces like the bathrooms and hallways. I was all alone and it was

up to my roommates and myself to keep up with everything. This experience so far has truly made me feel more “grown up”.

I became a Florentine when people would ask me for directions. Some people started asking me for directions and when I successfully answered I felt as though I had been living here for more than I actually had. Also when I am able to communicate with some of the locals here in Italian, I feel more at home. This is why I would highly suggest any student taking a language course while studying abroad in order to communicate even at a minimal level. Definitely adds a lot to the entire experience by simply knowing some of the language.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Italian professor Marta Russo. I totally fall in love with all of my Italian language professors because I believe I am very passionate about the subject itself. I fully indulge in it and Prof. Russo is extremely helpful. She is very patient with us Americans and helps us truly understand the topic of the day. Also this class is very small. I feel as though I make a better connection with the professor and for her to truly understand each of our weak points.

My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Si, siamo le gemelle!” This means yes, we are twins. At home my sister and I got asked about 1000 times a day if we are twins and prior to coming here I knew the same pattern would follow me. I say this phrase probably on a daily basis.

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expectedLeaving for Florence I had many expectations, some were fulfilled and others not. One that I can agree to being fulfilled was the way everything looked. All of the older historical buildings were pretty similar to how I imagined it. Very European and different to New York City. New York is very glamorous and new compared to Italy which was very interesting to come into. One expectation that wasn’t fulfilled was the food. I was expecting 5 course meals everyday, but I was sadly mistaken.

I became a Florentine when I left the city center of Florence. It was a huge

difference in what I first experienced here. Going out of the center there were less tourists, that way I didn’t feel like I was one. I felt like I belonged to the community and was not so much a foreigner. The city center is filled with people constantly trying to speak Italian and many pictures taken when I left, it was more natural. There wasn’t much to see but it was very interesting. Very quiet and local. I loved it. It was my favorite part of my stay here.

Most memorable moment at FUA was the FLY event and getting to meet Gaia Poli. They were having a sale on their clothing and there was a raffle for a photoshoot. That sounded so great so I had to take a picture in

the store to get the raffle and I did. The picture came out fantastic. /Did I win the raffle? Not technically, but I won a photoshoot you can say. Gaia agreed to use me for her class and in photoshoots and upcoming run way shows. I’m so grateful to have an opportunity like that.

Items checked off my bucket list: Learn to cook. I can’t believe I was so terrified to start. Remembering how scared I was and then today I can make anything, it’s so great and warming to know. I can basically do anything if I set my mind to it. The very first thing I made was rice balls, YES rice balls! They are known to be one of the most difficult things to make and I did it!

Cheree FraserMajor: Psychology, Journalism, minor in Italian

Home University: SUNY Purchase


Nicolette FiaccoMajor: American Studies with a Focus in Communications

Home University: University of Maryland, College Park

When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I was not completely sure what to expect! All I knew was that everyone I talked to that had studied in Florence previously absolutely loved it. So, I did expect to really like it here and have an amazing time. Also, one curiosity I had was if I was going to feel homesick or not.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was that everyone I talked to was right, and I loved it right away. I made some really good friends, and did not feel uncomfortable living here. I was a little bit worried that all of the hype about it was going to cause me to have too high of expectations, and then cause me to be disappointed, but that was not the case.

I became a Florentine when I actually found myself knowing how to walk places without looking at a map or my phone. I also feel like I became a Florentine when I started knowing where good places to eat were and when I starting knowing what places to go to buy what I need, and when I started having a preference for certain places over others.

My most memorable moment at FUA occurred when I was in my Cultural Introduction to Italy class. My instructor was teaching us some Italian and I was confused about what he was trying to ask us. He then called on me and asked me a question in Italian that I had never heard before and when he first asked I had no idea what he was saying. Then he proceeded to ask me a couple of more times but in

slightly different was and I found myself understanding what he was asking and was able to answer him. I was surprised and proud of myself that I was able to figure out what he was trying to say when I initially had no clue.

The best class/instructor at FUA was my Public Relations Strategy Class. I really enjoy it because it pertains to what I possibly want to do as a career. I think my instructor, Prof. Isabella Martini, does a really good job of providing the class with all the necessary information in a very organized way. I think she explains all of the information very thoroughly and clearly. Also all of the assignments we’ve had so far have been very interesting and have made me learn a lot.

Jillian Camberdella Major: Business Management


When I was preparing to leave for Florence and FUA, I expected I didn’t really have any expectations, I was trying to keep an open mind while coming here. I just thought there would be more Italians in my classes rather than other American students. I thought language might pose an issue for me since I don’t know Italian.

Then I arrived in Florence! What I found was a city style living, there are many things to do here and most of the locals will help you out if you need it. I also found that many people had a general understanding of English when I thought there would be a language barrier.

I became a Florentine when During my city walks, despite the excitement of traveling during the weekends, it was nice to walk around the beautiful city of Florence and learn about places I might otherwise just pass by

My most memorable moment at FUA was Traveling to Naples, Pompeii and Capri on the EFT trip. Capri was absolutely breathtaking.

The best class/instructor at FUA was Prof. Jessica Volpe. She taught my Cultural Awareness class and had a good sense of humor and understanding of the issues we brought up in class. She also had a way of making the class more enjoyable.

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Stony Brook University

F U A F l o r e n c e U n i v e r s i t y o f t h e A r t s

Florence Italy, Fall 2015

FUA - Stony Brook Fall 2015

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Transcript of FUA - Stony Brook Fall 2015