Stony Brook University FUA Florence University of the Arts
PATHS Florence Italy, Fall 2014
PATHS
Introduction Sto ny Brook U n iver s i ty P ro g ra m Fal l 2 014
This semester’s project focuses on the path of each student through the study abroad experience at FUA. Each student has expressed something about their experience in Florence through the path chosen to represent their connection to Florence and FUA. Each path is unique, just as each student is a distinctive individual. However, despite the fact that everyone has had their own personal passage through Florence, their path has brought them all to the same destination, that is, to becoming a global citizen. I would like to thank all of the students from the Stony Brook program for their contribution to this project and for all that their experience has brought to FUA. Although the Fall 2014 session has come to a close, you are all forever part of the FUA community, and I hope that your path through life brings you back to us one day. I wish you all the best for a bright and fruitful future! Grazie e in bocca al lupo!
M e l i ssa Rossi SBU Program Resident Director
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STUDENT PROFILES
Teal Marie Albertrani Major: Communications Home University: SUNY Albany
My path through Florence
My most memorable moment at FUA was
is very intelligent and enjoys teaching this
Borgo Pinti to Corso dei Tintori. I realized
When I had my first week of classes. It finally
class. I get to experience planning a themed
this was my path when I had my first week
hit me that I am officially studying abroad and
dinner for Ganzo in this class, and become
of classes. I take this class mostly every
taking part in an incredible experience. When
very hands on with event planning. This
day, whether it is going to class, going to
my first week of classes was over, I was able
gives me a taste of event management in
get some tasty gelato, buying stamps at
to take in all the information about my week
the real world.
a convenient store on Corso dei Tintori,
and realize what my classes would be like.
sitting at Piazza Santa Croce, or going to
My favorite Italian word is
Mass at the beautiful Church. During this
The best class/instructor at FUA was
“Arrivederci�. It means good-bye, good day,
short nine minute walk I pass several cafes,
Special Events Management, with Prof.
and farewell. I like this word simply because
lunch spots, and the massive Santa Croce,
Daniele Onori. When I enrolled for this class
of how it sounds. It is catchy and fun to say
so the walk always seems to go quickly.
I was told that it is a graduate level class
in my opinion! It is also the very first Italian
and that it is difficult. However, my professor
word I learned when I was a little girl.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Brad Amann Major: Finance Home University: University of Buffalo My path through Florence Via dei Macci to Apicius. I realized this was
My most memorable moment at FUA came during my first photography
project
“Ciao ragazzi�. Even though it is very simple
my path when I could barely stay on one
of the semester. The day before our
and basic, I use it just about everywhere I go.
side of road for more than a minute. Every
assignment was due in class, I went out and
I like it because it reminds me of back home
time I travel down this road there is barely
photographed in the plaza behind my house.
when I am leaving my deli saying cya later guys.
any space to move. This includes road and
I was fairly confused on the specifics of the
sidewalk. It is such a heavily trafficked route
project so I did not feel too confident in my
that I always felt like I was in a lively part of
pictures when I presented the following
town. On top of that I pass by some very
day. Not all of my photos were liked by my
Florentine landmarks like Piazza delle Belle
instructor, but there was one photo of an old
Arti and Piazza della Santissima Annunziata.
man smoking a cigar that he raved about.
Also when I cross over Via dei Servi I get a
The way he went on describing the details of
stunning view of the Duomo.
the picture made me feel like I was making strides as a photographer.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
Nadine Armaganian Major: Linguistics and English double major Home University: SUNY Albany My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
Borgo Pinti to my favorite farmers market,
I finally was able to get from one place to
Sant Ambrogio, near Santa Croce and right
another without using a map or getting lost.
around the corner from Ganzo.
I felt like a part of the community when I was
I realized this was my path when I found
first able to leave my apartment and know
myself preferring to get my groceries here
exactly how to get to where I needed to go.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Prego� - so many meanings and ways to use it!
than at Conad or something. I go a few times a week and just see what fresh fruits
The best class/instructor at FUA was
and vegetables the vendors have that day.
Prof. Carlotta Dini, who teaches my Tuscan
Also, the building at the market with cheese
wine course. She knows a lot about wine and
and bread vendors has amazing food too.
gives the class a lot of information about how to taste and appreciate Tuscan wines.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Nicole Crisalli Major: Childhood Inclusive Education Home University: SUNY Fredonia My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
My most memorable moment at FUA was
Borgo Pinti to DIVA, to Piazza deila Signoria,
I was coming home from my first weekend
When we were going over hand gestures
to Pinos Sandwiches, to Piazza del Duomo,
away from traveling. We were getting off the
in my Cultural Perspectives class because
to the Sant’Ambrogio Market; to Piazza San
bus at Santa Maria Novella after a seven hour
Prof. Volpe was trying to teach us all the
Lorenzo.I realized this was my path when I
bus ride and thought to myself, “It feels so
different hand gestures that are used in Italy
was looking around me one day and realized
good to finally be home”. It never felt so good
and everyone is butchering them and just
that I knew exactly where I was going and
to be back in Florence, where I lived, go to
laughing and joking around them.
how to get to my destination. I finally didn’t
school, walk the streets without using a huge
need a map or GPS to tell me where I was
map. It made me realize that I finally felt at
going because I go to these places every
home and that I was a part of the community.
day. It’s just a constant circle of me going to one place to the next.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list : Rubbing the boar’s nose, just sitting on the steps of the Duomo and taking it all in, wandering around the city for hours, finding cute, little cafes that aren’t touristy, and finding a piazza to sit in and relax.
Lindsey Bowen Major: Psychology Home University: SUNY Cortland
My path through Florence
My most memorable moment at FUA was
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
Borgo Pinti as I run through the city for exercise
Walking into one of my classes on a casual
“Firenze, ti amo”.
and enjoyment. I realized this was my path
Tuesday and thinking “this is exactly where
when two weeks after my arrival in Florence
I’m meant to be in life right now”.
and after several unsuccessful attempts at running in the city, I realized I could not navigate traffic, bikes, and pedestrians safely. On a walk where I purposefully got myself lost, I discovered this path and decided that would be perfect for a safe and efficient run, where I could let off stress.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Visit the top of Piazzale Michaelangelo Visit
the
Uffizi
Gallery,
the
Galleria
dell’Accademia, and the Palazzo Pitti; Get lost Oltrano and find my way back; Taking new routes home every day and discovering new things each time; Visit surrounding towns and areas of the Tuscan countryside
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Milly Elgot Major: Environmental Studies, European Studies Minor Home University: Stony Brook University My path through Florence
My most memorable moment at FUA was
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Via Della Vigna Nuova to Florence Cathedral,
During my Florence Sketchbook class; each
My Intermediate Italian class taught by Prof.
Piazza del Duomo. I realized this was my
class we go to a different Florence location
Marta Russo. This class was my favorite,
path when I began taking this path almost
and sketch, but the most memorable time
because Marta is the absolute best teacher.
every day to either get to class or meet up
was when we went to Piazza Santa Croce.
She’s incredibly helpful and patient, and she
with friends. Also, Piazza della Repubblica
It was most memorable, because we sat
is the sweetest. She genuinely wants us to
is on the way, and that is my favorite Piazza.
down on the steps of the Basilica Santa
learn Italian and be able to go out and use
It’s beautiful and there are different people
Croce and sketched as a musician in the
it every day.
playing music there every night; it just has
Piazza was playing music. Everything about
so much life in it.
it - the music, the view - made me feel like I was in a movie.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is “grazie mille”, because mille sounds like my name, and it’s funny to hear “Grazie mille, Milly”
Nicholas Fazio Major: Economics Home University: Stony Brook University My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
years of college who has taught with such
Via Montanelli to via De Macci. This is where
My father visited me from home. He came
enthusiasm. The topics discussed in the
the journey ends as I arrive at my friend’s
here to visit for a week, and this was when
class are very interesting, and Andrea is
apartment.
I realized I had really learned the city and
very interested in hearing our opinions on
I realized this was my path when at the end
I was proud to walk my dad around and
everything. He loves when we disagree with
of week one here in Florence, I had made
show him everything I had learned about the
an opinion and have a debate in class, and
the walk down this path more than two
place. Walking him around giving my best
that is something I really appreciate in a
times every day. I became close friends with
version of a tour of the city, I knew I felt at
class and from a teacher.
the people who live there and I knew this
home here and I was happy to be living here
was my path because I realized I made my
for the next few months.
friends for the semester and this is where I was going to be hanging out very frequently.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Grazie mille”. I like to be able to express the
The best class/instructor at FUA was
extent to which I am pleased with a product or
Global Economy taught by Andrea Giuntini.
service and this is the perfect phrase for that.
I have never had a teacher in my three
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Lauren Filler Major: Political Science Home University: Binghamton University
My path through Florence
techniques, then leave FUA to spend
Apicius to Via dell’Alloro, with a stop at the
I became a Florentine when I began to volunteer at the
Orti Dipinti (the
most of the class at different locations
Mercato Centrale.
community garden) through the community
around the city drawing. While I’ve taking
I realized this was my path when I realized
outreach program, I am able to connect with
art classes before, I’ve never had such a
how lucky I am to be able to take what I’m
local Florentines and feel like I am a part of
unique opportunity like this to be able to
learning in my food class and then use that
their community rather than an observer.
see and draw first hand famous buildings,
knowledge to buy food at a fresh market.
When we all work together, I don’t feel
sculptures, etc.
I love to pick up fish, fresh pasta, and
like I’m a foreigner in someone else’s city-
different seasonal vegetables. Even though
rather we are all working together towards
Items checked off my Florence bucket list :
this path is through a touristy area when I
a common goal.
Meeting local Florentines, climbing to the
walk into the central market I feel like I am a part of the local culture.
top of the Duomo, going to a soccer game,
The best class/instructor at FUA was Florence Sketchbook. Each day we learn a little bit about art history and some drawing
traveling around Tuscany.
Christopher Garcia Major: Business Economics Home University: SUNY Cortland
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
with two classes and all the paperwork and
Via Dell’Angolo to Via Giuseppe Verdi to
My parents came to visit. It was such an
effort I put in just to be able to come here
Pino’s, a great local sandwich/deli spot.
indescribable feeling of accomplishment
had paid off was my favorite moment here
I realized this was my path when it became a
and belonging to be able to guide my family
at FUA .
weekly routine that I do with my housemates
around Firenze without hesitation. When
every Friday that we are here in Firenze. I
they wanted to go to a certain shop, I knew
The best class/instructor at FUA was
went there for the first time with a friend and
where it was, took them to all the typical
Alessandro Giudice, I don’t have a favorite
It was love at first bite. We had such a great
tourist spots, but when I took them to my
class in all honesty but he teaches two of the
Friday the first time we got Pino’s so we
favorite local spots away from the tourist
four classes I am in and I like his injection of
decided to make it part of our Friday routine
was the best part.
real world experience in economics into the
whenever we weren’t traveling. My first time
class room. Back in the states, I feel professors
there I was so overwhelmed by how many
My most memorable moment at FUA was
only worry about teaching by the book so it’s a
sandwich choices there were and I was very
The first day of classes when I realized
nice change with Professor Giudice.
pleased with the first one I chose and from
everything I had worked towards and put
then on this have been my path.
effort into came true. After a long summer
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Alyssa Gatto Major: Psychology Home University: Binghamton University My path through Florence
The best class/instructor at FUA was
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
Via Monte alle Croci to the train station, then
Marta Russo is (hands down) the best
“Non lo so, ma…” I never know what is
the tram all the way to the Aldo Moro stop.
teacher I’ve ever had. Not only is she patient
going on when I attempt to speak Italian
Here my Italian family greets me and drives
and kind, but she is so knowledgeable
here, so I love to say I don’t know, but then
me to their home.
about
give it a shot anyway.
I realized this was my path when I went to
very challenging. She is able to help me
meet my family. This path takes me home,
understand the intricacies of the Italian
to the Italian family who has taken me in as
language, while managing to help me adjust
one of my own. I love going there because
to the cultural differences. I don’t think I
it lets me get out of the city and experience
would be comfortable using my language
the public transportation system in Florence .
skills if it wasn’t for the confidence Prof.
the
English
language,
which
is
Russo has given me. She is a wonderful teacher and all around person.
Megan Graham Major: International Relations, Minor: Psychology Home University: SUNY Cortland
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
all bond over some amazing dishes, I look
Past Fort Belvedere and along the city walls.
I was able to go to a super market for the
forward to going back to another themed
I walked this path on my way to dinner with
first time alone and only communicate in
dinner .
my Italian Family Club family and it was the
Italian, it may seem small but it made me
most beautiful walk I’ve taken so far.
feel more like an Italian and less of a tourist.
I realized this was my path when I looked
My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Piacere” because this trip has been full
out into the Tuscan Hills and saw the sun
My most memorable moment at FUA was
setting over them. I felt like I was in one of
of new introductions. It feels applicable
Attending
five-course
the most beautiful places in the world and
because it really has been nice to meet
dinner at ganzo; this was one of my most
like I was truly in the middle of Europe, I
people from such a different culture and
memorable nights because I share great
really enjoyed the views and the walk.
place and I am grateful to be able to do so.
food with new friends I have met here in
the
vegetarian
Florence. It was great to get dressed up and
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Rachel Honis Major: Sociology and Communication Home University: SUNY Geneseo
My path through Florence
My most memorable moment at FUA was
Borgo Pinti to Piazzale Michelangelo. I realized this was my path when I repeated it multiple times. It takes me about twenty
The FUA trip to the northern part of Italy
things are the way they are. We cover a wide range of topics and I have learned things
in Modena on a class field trip. We visited a Parmesan cheese factory, a balsamic
about this country that I wouldn’t have otherwise. Furthermore, we have city walks
minutes to walk from my apartment to the Piazzale, and the hill can be difficult, but
vinegar factory and a parma ham factory. At each place, we learned about the process
every week, which helps me understand the history of Florence, and is a great hands on
the view at the top is well worth the walk. At home, there isn’t a place that offers the
of each staple in Italian cuisine. We also had a taste testing of each product, and I have never tasted food so fresh. It was an
experience.
experience I will never forget.
“Va bene”, which translates to very good. One of my professors interchanges
and the Ponte Vecchio, as well as the Tuscan hills. Even though I have been there
The best class/instructor at FUA was The Cultural Perspectives class. This class
between English and Italian sometimes, and whenever she is changing topics, she uses
many times, the view still doesn’t seem real. I want to take advantage of the sight
is very helpful as I try and adjust to this foreign culture. Before coming here, the
this phrase. Since she says it so often, I find myself saying it to my friends outside of
of the beautiful city I get to call home for four months.
only thing I knew about Italy was based off of stereotypes. This class helps explain why
class. I hope to make it a habit and continue to use it even after I’ve left Italy.
same breath-taking view as the Piazzale. My favorite time to go is at sunset because the scenery is incomparable with the Duomo
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
Pengzhan Jing Major: Economics Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
Borgo Pinti to Via dell’ Oriuolo. I realized this
I went to school every day and I brought
was my path when I went to school every
food from the market.
day and I brought food to market. When I am hanging out in Florence, I see many tourists. I really want to say that I a not a tourist and I am living here. I am a part of Florence.
The best class/instructor at FUA was Cultural Perspectives, with Prof. Jessica Volpe. She is really nice and she always smiles at me.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Learning to cook Italian food.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Oksana Kachmarchyk Major: Business Major Management Specialization, Writing Minor, International Studies Minor Home University: Stony Brook University
My Path through Florence
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
Borgo Pinti to Apicus I realized this was my
Massimo Coppetti, a Wine instructor. His
Buying jewelry from Italy, going on a wine
path when I understood that on the way to
passion and love for wine is so vivid. His
tasting
Apicius, where my classroom is located, I
sip vs. shot theory has really stuck with
photos, eating some gelato, having gnocchi
get to see all of Florence. There are all the
me. He has taught us to sip the wine from
for the first time, eating lots of cheese, and
little café’s and trattorias. I pass a few hair
our glass while we appreciate life as it is.
tasting 100 year-old balsamic vinegar.
salons where women are getting their hair
By sipping we are not rushing through life
done. I pass a hospital, a church, and even a
but living more in the moment each and
McDonald’s. There is a building that is covered
everyday. Taking a shot we speed things
in dollar bills to my left. And a few tourists
up without noticing what is right in front of
that I occasionally bump into. Everyday the
us. Prof. Coppetti asked us when do people
road is alive with a brand new story.
drink wine: for dinner, for relaxation, for celebrations. He has asked us why can’t everyday be a celebration?
tour,
taking
beautiful
Tuscany
My favorite Italian word/phrase is Buon giorno which means good morning. Every morning I will pass an Italian and they will say Buon giorno and automatically I’d have a smile on my face for the rest of the day.
Gary Lamb Major: Business Major Home University: SUNY Albany
My path through Florence
as it is directed towards students just like
Via de Macci to the Duomo. I realized this
I became a Florentine when I realized that someone
asked me for
me. It tells us how Italians and Americans
was my path when I would take frequent
directions. I realized after it happened that
mixed in the past, and the differences
walks to the Duomo. The Duomo is by far
I had been doing the same thing, asking for
between the two cultures. It is interesting
my favorite landmark here in Florence. It
directions approximately two weeks before
to see how different Italian-Americans are,
blows my mind that something as big as the
that. It felt good to know that I knew my
than Italians.
Duomo was made so long ago. There were
way around and that I must not have looked
no machines to get the materials for the
completely like a tourist.
building so high in the air, just all manpower, and that amazes me.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Salve� because I can say it at any part of
The best class/instructor at FUA was
the day. I just like the simplicity of the word,
The Italian American experience with Prof.
and that it is has more importance than you
Umberto Gori. I like this class because I feel
would think.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Steven Martimucci Major: Geology Home University: SUNY Cortland
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
Items checked off my Florence bucket list :
Santa Croce to Via Guelfa and Fedora.
I started being able to hold full conversations
Order food correctly, hold conversations
I realized this was my path when I make this
with Italian locals and be successful. For
in Italian correctly, give directions in Italian
trip every morning as a part of my every day
example, I went to the barber and had a full
correctly, be mistaken for a local.
routine. I go to class and get lunch at fedora
one on one conversation in nothing but Italian.
afterwords. It feels weird on days that I don’t
I understood every word and replied correctly.
do this because I’m so used to it .
My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Allora” It’s such a common word and can make a huge difference when used in a conversation .
Joslyn Matthews Major: Journalism Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Borgo de Noche to Piazza Santa Croce.
I realized that I had a favorite cafĂŠ and am
Carlotta Forasassi who teaches beginning
From there I make my way to school.
now a regular customer there with a regular
piano. I was completely new to playing any
I realized this was my path when I decided
order.
kind of instrument but with her help I quickly
that walking past the Duomo and Piazza
learned the basics of how to play piano.
della Signoria was too much of a hassle.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
She had patience with me despite how bad
The tourists and vendors clog what would
When I got two pieces published in the
I was at everything.
otherwise be a nice scenic walk to school.
schools newsletter Blending. The newsletter
So I now frequent a more simple way to
provides a good opportunity to further my
make my way around Florence.
journalistic ability while abroad .
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Italo Oliveira Major: Communication Home University: SUNY Buffalo
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
Borgo San Frediano to SQUOLA/Piazza del
I went to the Fiorentina Soccer Game. The
“Ah che bello!” “Bravo!”
Duomo.
atmosphere, the people singing, chanting,
I realized this was my path when I noticed
and pushing the team towards victory made
that going from my side of the bridge
me feel like I was part of something bigger
towards the Duomo you are able to see a lot
than myself. I will never forget that day and
of what Italy has to offer for someone who is
the feeling I had during that whole match.
new to this place. This path shows the local side of Florence (Borgo San Frediano) all the way to the most touristy area (Duomo) in a matter of 15 minutes.
My most memorable moment at FUA was When my Italian Soccer Experience class went to the Italian Soccer Museum; we got to meet one of the legendary Italian soccer trainers and we got to see so much history.
Ariel Phillips Major: Psychology Home University: SUNY Plattsburgh
My path through Florence
My most memorable moment at FUA was
Prof. Borgioli really got me interested in
I run towards the river from Via Verdi, across
The first time I went into a business and
the process of making chocolate, from the
the Ponte alle Grazie Bridge and towards
ordered a smoothie in Italian. Granted the
cacao plantations, to the factories. So much
Viale dell’Albereta until it turns into grass
names are in English, I was still so proud
so that I want to further my knowledge and
and I can’t go any further.
and excited that I used what I had learned
experience, and look into other programs or
I realized this was my path when I found
in Italian class.
even jobs that might offer that.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
My favorite Italian word/phrase is Word
Everything Chocolate: From Therapy to
Ariellina (little Ariel) Phrase: “La solitudine è
Pleasure, taught by Stefania Borgioli. Not
per lo spirito ciò che il cibo è per il corpo”
only was this class delicious and super
(“Loneliness is for the spirit what food is for
fun, but also it was extremely interesting!
the body”).
myself not even thinking, and running this way. Also, it’s one part of Florence that I have seen with fallen leaves, and it makes me feel like I’m home in autumn.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Jenna Poplausky Major: Mechanical Engineering Home University: Duke University My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
learn from some of the best players in the
Via Verdi to the Duomo. I realized this was
I figured out how to send mail at the post
country. It was also a very unique way to
my path because I walk that route every day.
office, even though none of the attendants
learn about Italian culture and be integrated
The Duomo is the center of the city. It is a
spoke English and my Italian was still pretty
into the community.
great meeting point and there is so much
shaky. I had no idea which booth to go to,
to do in the area. A day will never go by
or how to say stamp in Italian, but I was able
The best class/instructor at FUA was
when you don’t venture pass the Duomo,
to figure it out.
Coach Fabrizio Polloni, my soccer professor.
and every time it is still just as breathtaking as it was the first time.
Coach Polloni is one of the most intelligent soccer coaches I know. He knows so much
My most memorable moment at FUA was Italian
about the game and has dedicated his
professional soccer players in the Soccer
whole life to playing and coaching. I can
Experience
easily say that his class has been the best
Getting
to
play class.
soccer Soccer
with has
always
been a passion of mine, and I could have never imagined having the opportunity to
class I have ever taken .
Tania Rahman Major: English Home University: Binghamton University
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
The opposite way from the Duomo, down
I understood that the feeling that had settled
fields. Prof. Radicchi does a great job engaging the class’ interest in the reading
Borgo Pinti to the Community Garden, where I enjoy sitting and writing in my journal.
itself upon me was that of comfort. It took far less time than I anticipated adjusting to
material, as well as coming up with activities that allow us to interact with one another
I realized this was my path when I decided to take a stroll one Wednesday afternoon
my new home; in fact, I had expected to feel a low level of homesickness all the way to
and gain a real feel for marketing. She also does well in making sure we are on top of
when I was class-free. I was determined to get lost in Florence, but outside of the city
the end of this semester. Instead, I found myself casually pointing out directions to
our work by giving us assignments that are both relevant to our readings and interesting
center, which is why I walked away from the Duomo down my block. I was walking down random, unfamiliar streets, discovering new
passersby who asked me for the location of a certain Piazza or a recommendation for lunch.
to do.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
shops, cafes, and stores, until I wound up back onto Borgo Pinti somehow. This
The best class/instructor at FUA was
My goal for the semester was to do as many activities that locals engage in as possible,
path is great because it leads to the park, includes bike paths, and has far less people
International Marketing with Elena Radicchi. As an English major, I don’t often take
although some of the things coincide with what tourists like to do. So far I have visited
than the main area .
classes that veer off from the paths of famous literature, and I always enjoy learning things
multiple secret bakeries throughout the night, as well as visits to cafes and parks
that challenge my perspective on various
outside of the city center.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Mallory Rothstein Major: Psychology Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
to analyze one glass of wine! I never knew
Via Maggio to sQuola in Via dell’Oriulo. I
I was coming back from the Amalfi Coast
how much goes into a wine analysis and all
realized this was my path when I had been
and all I wanted was to fall asleep in my
the components that one can analyze from
so used to taking that path so many times
bed. I actually looked forward to being in my
a glass of wine. I will never forget that class
that it became automatic for me to use that
apartment again and knew exactly how to
because everyone in the class was having
path as a way to cross over the river and
get home from the train station. I also have
so much fun despite it taking forever and I
go wherever I needed to go even if it wasn’t
felt like a Florentine when Italians ask me for
think I learned the most about wine during
to sQuola. This path has street art with my
directions because I feel like it means they
that class.
favorite one on it and I can name a ton of
think I’m from around here!
restaurants/places to go on this path, which for many other paths, I can’t do.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list: My most memorable moment at FUA was
To go to a Fiorentina soccer game, go to a
When I got to do a wine tasting for the first
secret bakery, be able to order something all
time in my Exploration of Wine Culture in
in Italian, and visit all the museums at least
Italy class. It took us the first time an hour
once with my museum pass.
Benjamin Schantz Major: Clinical Lab Science Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
part. What I loved most about it was that
I felt like a Florentine because my friends
Borgo San Frediano to Piazza Santo Spirito.
the atmosphere, although can seem crazy,
and I started yelling at the other team and
I realized this was my path when my
is actually very calm.
the other team’s fans.
whim. We were still new to the city, and we
I became a Florentine when
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
didn’t really know the better places to go
I went to a Fiorentina soccer game. Calcio,
Gelato, The Duomo, The David, The Uffizi
as like anywhere else, is a game where the
Gallery, going to a secret bakery.
roommates and I went there one night on a
as far as night life goes. But, we had heard about Santo Spirito and decided to go there and check it out. When we got there, I was immediately enamored. The people were mostly speaking Italian with a few speaking English, but that was not even my favorite
fans are passionate. They yell at each other and say some very choice words. It was such a great experience, one that everyone must try, even if they are not a soccer fan.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Dove state andando?”
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Fiona Tarzy Major: Philosophy, Politics, and Law Home University: SUNY Binghamton
My path through Florence Borgo Pinti to sQuola in Via dell’ Oriuolo. I realized this was my path when I noticed how unique the street is. At home, I live on a completely residential block. In Florence, Borgo Pinti is swamped with artistry, clothing stores, restaurants, gardens,
relatively quite block, with all the excitement of a street with a lot of life and things to do.
I became a Florentine when I was Able to navigate my way home without using the Duomo as my starting point. I had just
My most memorable moment at FUA was On a sunny fall afternoon, my friends and I gathered in the court yard behind school after class. The relaxed quite environment in the school allowed us to read for class, make travel plans, and enjoy the Florentine beauty.
pharmacies, and wine stores. Unlike a normal commercial area, the stores are only
come back from the local Conad to do my weekly grocery shopping. An Italian stopped me to ask for directions. I can not speak
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
open on occasion. This meant that every time I walked down the seemingly familiar
Italian or get around. They wanted to know where Conad was, which I was able to help
“Come si dice”. This is the most useful phrase I have learned. Locals understand
block I found new stores and shop owners. This block has all the bustle with none of the hustle. The plethora of stores do not stop
them with! I pointed in the right direction, responded “Prego” to their “Grazie” and
not every American can speak Italian, but they appreciate the effort. When I use this at the market or in the streets Italians are
the block from being a one way dead end. Borgo Pinti has all the charm of a small,
used my adrenaline to find my way home.
warmer and more willing to help.
Danielle Tinghitella Major: Psychology Home University: SUNY Geneseo
My path through Florence
I became a Florentine when
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
Via Maggio to Piazzale di Porta Romana and
I went food shopping and found all of the
I have climbed to the top of the Piazzale
the park.I realized this was my path when
items I needed even though it was difficult
Michelangelo, eaten tons of gelato, gotten
my friends and I discovered the park when
with the language difference. When the
Gusta Pizza, sat in a piazza and spoke to
we were walking around the city and we
worker in the grocery store initially spoke to
Italians students, visited the Boboli Gardens
spent the rest of the day sitting in the park
me in Italian, not automatically recognizing
and the Palazzo Pitti and learned some Italian.
relaxing. There were a lot of Italians here
that I was American like so many other
sitting on the benches or watching their
Italians do, it made me feel like I was
dogs as they ran around in the park. It is a
beginning to integrate with the culture.
nice place to take a break from the chaos of the city and all of the tourists.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Marco Tutino Major: Communications in Filmmaking Home University: Le Moyne College
My path through Florence Borgo
San
Frediano
to
I became a Florentine when
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Piazzale
I had lunch at I Cartuccio on my block,
Intro to Digital Photography with Enrica
Michelangelo. I realized this was my
San Frediano. I spoke with Renato, one of
Quaranta.
path when I arrived at the top of the hill,
the owners of the restaurant. Although my
I have a pretty good understanding of digital
overlooking the city. The first time I saw the
italian wasnt perfect we had a simple and
photography but this class helps me to
amazing view of Florence from this piazza
friendly conversation. He asked where I am
sharpen my skill set and learn more about
was Fall 2012, visiting my sister when she
staying for the time that I am here, I told him
photography in general and photo editing.
studied abroad. Being that it is my turn and I
right on this block and he said, “Ahh! Sei
live only 10 minutes away, I realized that this
uno San Fredianino!�
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
path was not only aesthetically beautiful but
Pinos, Top of the Duomo, The David,
also nostalgic for me.
Boboli Gardens, Buying a bike, Traveling to Scandicci and Galluzzo.
Devan Valoroso Major: Journalism Home University: Stony Brook University My path through Florence Gomitolo del Oro to Piazza dell’ Indipendenza. I realized this was my path when on the days where I don’t have anything to do I go to the Piazza dell’ Indipendenza. It’s become my go to spot in all of Florence, partly because of location, partly because of convenience, but mostly because it’s a place where I can turn the world off and just reflect. It’s actually kind of ironic that this piazza has become “my place” because I had stumbled upon it my first night in Florence just hours after my arrival. I hadn’t found it again until about three weeks after, but that second time I found it, laid down on the grass for hours and stared at the sky I knew that this was my physical path here in Florence.
I became a Florentine when I felt like Florentine’s recognized me as Florentine, I felt like I recognized myself as
Florentine and I felt like Florence recognized me as Florentine. I had walked to Parco delle Cascine in search of the piscina, but when I got there I found that it was closed. I found myself in this huge festival filled with Florentines. I spent the day there by myself just observing and taking part in the action. As I stood up against the fence as the horse riders rode past me carrying the Italian flag, as tradition Italian music pierced the area, as children smiled with utter excitement, as I stood amongst the people that were born here I couldn’t help but feel like I belonged. This place was no longer a place where I was studying, a place that I was visiting, but a place that I could call my home.
My most memorable moment at FUA was The first day here in Florence. The entire Stony Brook program went on a sightseeing walk after orientation and we ended up at Gusta Pizza. Although we didn’t know each
other, it was so much fun. Looking back, it’s so amazing to think about the thoughts that were going through my head, the grandeur of the city, the expectations that I had for the trip and the people I would meet and the perceptions that I had of each of them because the people that I’ve met through FUA’s Stony Brook Program have become my best and closest friends here. They say in order to know where you’re going you have to remember where you came from, and it makes all the sense now .
Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Climbing to the top of the Piazza del Duomo, watching a sunset from the top of the Michaelangelo, going to Cinque Terre, seeing and swimming in water the color of the sky, trying authentic Italian pizza, traveling to the Amalfi Coast, going to Pompei (it’s been a dream of mine since the 3rd grade), Meet people from all over the world, ride a Vespa, Tuscan wine tasting, try gelato.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Ilana Wolf Major: Clinical Health Studies/Physical Therapy Home University: Ithaca College
My path through Florence
you can even get lost on the way, but in the
My most memorable moment at FUA was
From my apartment to the San Lorenzo
end you always find where you have to go. I
Volunteering at the St. James Food Bank.
Market I realized this was my path when
now take this way back every time.
Getting to taste one hundred year old
One day I came out a different way than I
balsamic vinegar on a class field trip was
thought I was when coming back from the
I became a Florentine when I was
market. I had no idea where I was going but
Able to go to the market and get all my
I knew the general direction. I followed my instinct of which streets to take and then shortly after I realized I was already on my street. I feel like this happens a lot when walking around Florence-you may not know exactly how to get somewhere and
also really cool.
groceries, rather than going to Conad, and
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
speak in Italian (as best I can). I also feel
Going to a non-touristy place without using
part of the community when I go running
a map to get there, watching the sunset at
and I pass other Florentines running.
Piazza Michelangelo and getting a sandwich from All’Antico Vinaio.
Veronica Wendy Major: English, Italian, Legal Studies Home University: SUNY Buffalo
My path through Florence
My most memorable moment at FUA was
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
Via dello Sprone to sQuola.
The first time I had a group project with my
“Ci vediamo!” I love saying it because of the
I realized this was my path when I knew
now good friends. We really bonded over
way it rolls of your tongue!
which part of the cobblestone dipped lower
a little group project that was due in a few
than the others. I knew the exact location
hours. Luckily, we all worked together and
where I should avoid twisting my ankle. I
pulled together an assignment that was
wouldn’t have to look down anymore to
pretty good. I didn’t expect group projects
watch the ground, I just knew where to step.
to bring together some of my closest friends now. I’ve recently gone on some day trips with them, and I am so glad I’ve met them.
FLORENCE FALL 2014
Stony Brook University FLORENCE ITALY FALL 2014 PROGRAM
CREDITS
Photo Credits: Silvia Mancini & David Wiess Project Coordinator: Melissa Rossi
Stony B rook U ni vers ve rs ity Progra Program m Fa l l 201 Fal 2 014 4 C l ass :
Albertrani Teal Amann Brad Armaganian Nadine Bowen Lindsey Crisalli Nicole Elgott Milly Fazio Nicholas Filler Lauren Garcia Christopher Gatto Alyssa Graham Megan Honis Rachel Jing Pengzhan Kachmarchyk Oksana Lamb Gary Martimucci Steven Matthews Joslyn Oliveira Italo Phillips Ariel Poplausky Jenna Rahman Tania Rothstein Mallory Schantz Benjamin Tarzy Fiona Tinghitella Danielle Tutino Marco Valoroso Devan Wendy Veronica Wolf Ilana