SUNY PROGRAM FUA Florence University of the Arts
M Y PAT H THROUGH FLORENCE
Florence Italy Fall 2019
SUNY PROG RAM December, Fall 2019
F o rewo rd This semester’s project goal is to encourage students to reflect on their personal growth and learning path during their study abroad experience at FUA. I have no doubt that you will have gained a deeper appreciation of your talents, your passions, and – why not – even your fears, as I am equally sure that you have relished the thrill that comes from overcoming a challenge all on your own, or gaining new friends in the process. It is my sincerest hope that you have enjoyed the unique pleasure of sharing a life-changing experience with another person, and that you are an emotionally richer person because of it. Each of you has expressed something about their experience in Florence in their reflections, and although everyone has had their own personal passage through Florence, I hope you will all continue to seek a life of inspiration, pursuit, and fulfilment. I would like to thank all of the students from the SUNY program for their contribution to this project and for all that their experience has brought to FUA. Although the Fall 2018 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!
Alice C in i Resident Director SUNY University Florence Program
This past semester has been a whirlwind of excitement and adventure! It feels as though I had just arrived in Florence, looking awestruck by the immense beauty it offered. Florence will always hold a special place in my heart, as I believe it does in yours. Aside from the spectacular beauty and rich history that lies around every corner, Florence has been our temporary home, a place we have come to know and love. I could say so much about the city itself, but we know that it’s the people around us that have made this experience special. I hope that you have strengthened the bonds with the friends you came with, and I hope that the new friendships you’ve made here will last a lifetime. With the semester coming to a close, I would like to say that it has been an absolute pleasure studying alongside and assisting my fellow SUNY students. Study abroad is an opportunity, unlike any other, and I hope you all feel how much of a blessing it has been to come here and be on this journey. I would like to thank the FUA staff from the bottom of my heart because, without them, this semester would not have been possible. To my fellow SUNY students, I wish you all the best in your future endeavors, and I hope Florence has created some kind of magic in your life as it has mine. Until next time,
Rac ha el Ca ndon i Stony Brook University Student Representative
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
STUDENT PROFILES
Hailey Amador Political Science – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is...
the Piazza Michelangelo as well as the garden that is right below it. It is such a peaceful place I go at least twice a week, especially when things are hectic. It is just a relaxing area of people lounging and reading in the garden. Then once you get to the top, there is gelato and drinks. Everyone goes for the sunset because it’s such a spectacular view. I would say that Piazza Michelangelo is somewhere you can go to relax and meet up with friends.
I became a Florentine when...
I started to form relationships with locals like the cashier at the grocery store or the woman in the bookstore I visit often. It
sounds so simple, but you feel a part of the community by small gestures of saying ciao or Buongiorno and being familiar with the people in the area.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… the Duomo, Santa Croce,
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… my #MeToo and Sexual
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “la dolce vita” I feel like
Harassment class. I am more on the shy side. Still, the way the class is set up, I feel comfortable participating in the discussion. This class has helped me find my voice in class, and the instructor Melissa Rossi is also the school counselor, so she is very lovely. The class felt more conversational, not like reading a textbook for two hours.
finding the best gelato place, trying a new food you can’t go wrong here when eating!
it captures what Italian living truly is! .
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Vincent Asito Journalism – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is...
the Piazzale Michelangelo. My first week here, I went to the top for the sunrise and was able to take in a breathtaking view of Florence. At this time, it’s kind of all came full circle and hit me that I was really here and about to spend 3 ½ months here.
I became a Florentine when...
I did laundry for the first time realized I had no dryer to use and had to hang all of my clothes to dry.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… my writing for digital media professor, Ms. Parretti, because she is very down to earth and understands we are abroad students and does everything in her power to help better us as students.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Seeing the Piazzale Michelangelo, the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Ciao” because it is easy and fun to say, and I use it so many times a day.
Digby Baker-Porazinski Political Science – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is... likely held by many Florentines and visitors alike, is the magnificent Duomo. Structurally completed in the 1400s, the Florence Cathedral stands among the most beautiful works of architecture in Italy, if not the world. The brilliant dome marks the highest point in the city (as enforced by law) and can be seen from anywhere in Florence. If I ever lose my way, I need only look up.
I became a Florentine when...
the moment I set eyes on the old city. The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why) … The Science of Happiness. Rooted in solid data, this class explored the many ways an individual
can improve their lives using techniques backed by science. The class was upbeat and optimistic.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Visiting Uffizi, Boboli, and Palazzo Pitti, experiencing Aperitivo at a variety of authentic restaurants, gazing down at the city from Piazzale Michelangelo, exploring the thousand quiet streets of Florence.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Allora.” Anytime I’ve asked for a direct translation, my professors have scratched their heads. It’s a convenient filler word, meaning something like “well” or “now then.”
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Jonathan Berkebile Biology – SUNY Geneseo
I became a Florentine when...
I ordered food at a restaurant, only in Italian, without having the waitress speaking English back to me. I really felt Italian, and it was definitely a different feel then when you order food in English.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Francesca. She made the class very interesting and fun while learning a ton of Italian in the process. It was one of the best classes I have taken in my entire life.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… seeing the city from afar, visited the Tuscan countryside, learned a bunch of Italian ate some excellent authentic Italian food
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Va bene.” It’s easy and means very good so applicable all the time, as well as spreads positivity.
Krystal Bonsignore Global Business Management – SUNY Farmingdale
My point of reference in Florence is... Piazza Santo Spirito in Oltrano. The square is right next to my apartment, and whenever I approach it, it makes me feel at home. I spend a lot of my free time in the square, reading, and people-watching. I love witnessing the interactions between the local and waking up each morning to find new things in the marketplace.
I became a Florentine when...
the day I arrived. I felt that the people of Florence were so welcoming and kind. I have had so many fascinating conversations with people that have lived here their whole lives. It’s lovely when a complete stranger is willing to
open up to you, and it means a lot to them when you show them your interest in learning more.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Wine Culture and Society taught by the fantastic Francesca Tassinari. It was a great course because Francesca is so enthusiastic about what she knows and loves to share her knowledge with the class. I really learned a lot about wine, and it felt good to be “in the know” when visiting local wineries.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… restaurants and new foods I’ve been wanting to try. I have been living up to that practically eating my way through Florence.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Mangia bene, ridi spesso, ama molto” which means “eat well, laugh often, and love much.” The phrase has become my personal mantra since arriving in Florence.
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Gabrielle Cadwallader Linguistics – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is...
I became a Florentine when... when I try
Items checked off my Florence bucket list…
Conad City, the supermarket by my apartment. I realized after a few visits that I was actually immersed in more culture there than anywhere else. I feel that going shopping in another country lets me experience a major part of the culture, and I can practice my Italian! It may seem like it’s just a supermarket, but it has been integral in my Florence experience.
to speak Italian and the locals answer me in Italian (rather than in English).
going to Piazzale Michelangelo & Boboli Gardens, trying wild boar and truffle oil.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… “Interpersonal
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Buona serata” because
Communication” with Fabio, because it was more openended and different from any class I have taken at home. We participated in many activities in class that supported learning uniquely and also made the content more enjoyable.
the locals are delighted and impressed when I use this phrase!
Rachael Candoni Communication Studies – SUNY Oneonta
My point of reference in Florence is...
the Duomo! Probably an undeniable choice, but to me, the Duomo is the most iconic staple of Florence. I walk past the Duomo every day, and I am always awestruck by its magnitude and ornate detailing. It is truly one of the most beautiful buildings I have ever seen. I always notice something new about it every time I walk past it. The Duomo also helped me not to feel so lost when I first arrived here. I could simply look up and figure out where I needed to go.
I became a Florentine when...
I found my favorite coffee bar around the corner from my apartment. I go to Opera Café almost every morning, and I am always
greeted by the warm smiles of its workers, Luis and Patrizia. Luis and I will usually speak in English, and he still appreciates my help in learning more. Patrizia speaks to me only in Italian, and although I don’t always understand her, she never gets frustrated. She’ll use more ‘elementary’ Italian to help me learn and get better. Whenever I stop in, I always feel like one of the locals!
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… The Art of Yoga and Meditation with Jen Warakomski. I have been practicing yoga and meditation for quite some time, but learning it in a Western setting is far different. I am learning more about yoga as a lifestyle
rather than just an exercise. I am really soaking in what it means to be a true yogi, and I plan to take several aspects of the yogi lifestyle back to the United States.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… The Duomo, Giotto’s Bell Tower, Ponte Vecchio, Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens, Piazza della Signora, and the Uffizi Gallery!
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... Bellissima! I always find myself using it to describe this beautiful country!
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Melissa Carrasquero Psychology – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is... Parco delle Cascine. I love running across it almost every day. It kind of reminds me of Central Park back home in NYC. It also gives me a change of scenery from the hectic city center that is Florence.
I became a Florentine when... I attended my first Fiorentina game. All the chants were in Italian, the entire stadium was filled with sports enthusiasts, and in that 90-minute event, I felt completely immersed within the culture.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… cross-culture psychology. It’s interesting learning about culture shock at the same time I’m also experiencing this phenomenon. I get to learn about the theories and terms in addition to having firsthand knowledge about living in a foreign country, and it’s very enlightening.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… the Duomo, visit Ponte Vecchio, practice my Italian with a local, go to a soccer game, eat authentic Italian food, have proper gelato,
run alongside the river, visit Piazzale Michelangelo, see the Tuscan countryside filled with vineyards.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... ‘Allora’. I constantly hear Italians use this phrase, and just the sound of it feels very bright. I also like the fact that it is very versatile and doesn’t have a concrete definition as to what it means.
Michael Cazzari Economics – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is...
the Basilica of Santa Croce. When I first arrived in Florence, my taxi dropped me off at the main FUA building where My roommates and I received our room keys. The first time we walked to our apartment, I was truly in awe of Florence was as we passed the Basilica of Santa Croce. I couldn’t believe I lived down the street from such an amazing building.
I became a Florentine when...
I found myself returning from a trip to Amsterdam, and while I was walking through the airport, tourists from the United States approached me asking for advice. I felt truly at home as I gave recommendations to
travelers as if I had lived here my whole life.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... ‘ciao.’ This is the most
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… my Podcast Production
commonly used phrase and one of the only Italian words I actually understand.
class. The professor gives his students so much freedom to be as creative as possible and truly wants to see his students succeed. Whenever I have a problem, I can always ask for his help, and if he doesn’t know the answer, he will work with me to find it.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… I visited historical places, eaten incredible food, and made great friends. The one experience I would call my greatest moment was when I watched the sunrise from Piazzale Michelangelo.
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Emily Davella Communications – SUNY Cortland
My point of reference in Florence is... café on the corner of my street. It is just less than a minute away from my apartment. I went here on the first day I arrived and plan on going here on the day I leave, and many days in between! I love going there to get a cappuccino every morning, before 12, of course, and a chocolate croissant! When I see this café on my trek home after long weekend trips, I know I am close to my apartment, and it gives me a sense of feeling home again
I became a Florentine when...
I was perusing around the local market near my house, and a lady approached me and asked me a question in Italian. It was a simple question that I understood and was able to answer back in Italian. I felt like such a local. I felt Florentine being at a local market and blending in enough that someone thought I was Italian, and they spoke to me in Italian, not English.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… introduction to PR experiential learning. I was always curious about the work that PR entailed, and through experiential learning in this class, I was able to experience and practice this work firsthand. My professor, Sandra Nannini, was very knowledgeable and experienced in this field. She was able to share personal stories about her work in PR and running a business. She was very encouraging and gave productive feedback.
Chris Flood Adolescent Education with History Minor – SUNY Plattsburgh
My point of reference in Florence is... the Biblioteca delle Oblate, and on the third floor, there is a wrap-around balcony. Most of the time, it is filled with Italian students socializing and studying; however, it is open to everyone. I enjoy this study area because it is so different from home. It’s has a scenic view of the Duomo along with a relaxed and stress-free environment. Every day I try to adapt these aspects from the library, I would stop and enjoy the scenery, I would breathe the fresh air and relaxed; finally, I would no longer stress the small things.
I became a Florentine when...
I would leave my apartment with no plan. In the mornings, I would
stop at a Caffe and enjoy a cappuccino while standing at the counter. Soon after, I would head in the direction of the Arno river. Once I arrived, I would prop myself on the wall that ran parallel to the river and sit. I could sit for 5 minutes or 20 minutes. I would stare at the birds and watch the ripples in the water looking for fish. During this time, I would reflect on my days and weeks.
professor to make sure ideas, economics, and policies were explained clearly to each individual. The discussions in the class became crucial to my understanding and learning.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Ethics of Globalization.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Mangia bene, ridi spesso,
This class gave me a broader world view and showed me perspectives of students internationally. It was also taught in a very intimate group setting of 8, This allowed my
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… The Duomo, The Uffizi Gallery, cross the Ponte Vecchio, Santa Croce Square, and Piazzale Michelangelo
ama molto” this means “Eat well, often laugh, love much.” This phrase speaks for itself and needs no reason!
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Lena Fuller Business Management - Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is... the Santa Trinita Bridge. This became my go-to bridge for crossing the river, as well as my favorite spot to hang around. I find myself a nice seat on the side of the bridge and take in the views, it offers a perfect viewing platform of the Ponte Vecchio.
I became a Florentine when...
I started giving directions to tourists, as well as complaining about tourists getting in the way and clogging up my city. Being able to have short interactions, only using Italian, was also a major milestone for me.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Sandra Nannini for my intro to public relations experiential learning course. I have learned a lot in this class and been able to get real handson experience working for FUA events.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Piazza Michelangelo, a day trip to Fiesole, and a large number of food excursions. I still have much more to do!
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Gelato.” This is my favorite delicious snack.
Thomas Geraghty usiness Management – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is... about 50 yards from the Duomo, a small street that is wider than the average Florentine street. On this street, a variety of artists come every day and create some of the most amazing works of art I have ever seen right on the street using just colored chalk and their imagination. They do this not for the money, but for the beauty of Florence and to have the beauty they create to be able to be appreciated by everyone.
I became a Florentine when...
I go to my favorite cafe, Cafe Mario, the workers, there know my name and my regular morning order right when I walk in. This relationship is really nice to
have and makes me feel like I am becoming a true Florentine in just the short time I have been here.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is… “ciao” because it is used to say both “hello” and “goodbye,” which I think is cool.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… my Podcast Production class with Professor Simone. Not only is he great at teaching us the ins and outs of what it takes to make a successful podcast, but he does it in a way that makes it fun. Sometimes I even forget I am in class because of his hands-on teaching style and creativity in his lessons.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Visit the Statue of David Climb to the top of the Duomo Travel Europe Eat pizza from Naples
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Molly Grossman Hospitality Management – SUNY Plattsburgh
My point of reference in Florence is... when
I became a Florentine when... I stumbled
I went to the Boboli Gardens on my own at the beginning of the semester. I got to see all the beautiful flowers, statues, and views that the garden offers. I took a moment to look out over the city and appreciate where I was and what I was doing here. Looking back to that day, I see how far I have come living in Florence.
upon a Calcio Storico game along the Arno. My friend and I did not know what it was, but a local was kind enough to tell us the history and everything about the game. Sitting there, watching and interacting with the local people, cheering and having fun, made me feel welcome.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… “Tuscany and its Wines” taught by Francesca Tassinari. I love this class because I get to learn about how wine is made and produced. Just from the
first lesson, I learned how to analyze and appreciate wines in the correct manner. Tuscany is known for its wines, so I get to experience all the great wines it produces.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Boboli Gardens, watching the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo and shopping at local markets and stores.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “arrivederci,” it is nice to hear because it is not used as much as “ciao.”
Natalia Hryniuk Art History – SUNY Purchase
My point of reference in Florence is...
I Fratellini, a panini shop that has become my favorite. I go to at least every other day. It has become my own personal tradition after class. Another place I love is this little park across from the Ponte alle Grazie on the Arno River. I like to sit there in the evenings and read while the sunsets.
I became a Florentine when...
I first walked through my neighborhood. I am grateful to be living in the Oltrarno near Santo Spirito, a quieter side of Florence. At night, the square of Santo Spirito comes alive, and it’s nice to go and sit at a café and meet new people. On days when I’m not so busy, I explore
the shops and restaurants and scout out my favorite spots.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… the Florence Food and
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... ‘Buona Sera’ simply because I like rolling my r’s.
Culture Experience with my Professor Vittoria. This class changed my life. I have never been a cook, and now I can make pasta and biscotti by hand. Vittoria was one of the most wonderful and kind people I’ve met. She is so talented and proud of what she does but also became a friend in the weeks I got to know her.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… visit a new museum every week, so I keep a mental bucket list of museums I would like to visit.
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Trevor Kennedy Communications – SUNY Cortland
My point of reference in Florence is... the Piazzale Michelangelo. The reason why you can view almost every significant landmark in Florence all in one glance. You have sight of the Ponte Vecchio, The Duomo, The Palazzo Vecchio, and of course, the Arno River. I made this journey by myself, during sunset, so I was able to view it both during dawn and evening. The view from Piazzale Michelangelo is the most beautiful view I have ever seen.
I became a Florentine when...
I sat at a local bar, ordered an espresso as
I drank and thought about life. I have always enjoyed my alone time, so this gave me a chance to experience a very popular aspect of Italian culture, as I reflected on my own life and my journeys in Italy.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Cultural Perspectives. This class gives me a variety of knowledge and history of Italian Culture. My instructor Fabio does a great job teaching the course, providing a learning experience that involves a good time. Going on city walks are also a part of the class. I have always enjoyed going on
walks, so doing this as a course requirement is something I truly enjoy.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… ordering at a café in fluent Italian. I don’t speak a lot of the language, but I learned enough where I can order and appear as a local, or someone who is fluent in the language. I have always wanted to do that, so I finally did.
Evan Lefkowitz Communication Studies – SUNY Oneonta
My point of reference in Florence is... the Duomo. Ever since I was little, I dreamt of visiting Italy. When I saw it for the first time, I remember gazing up and admiring its beauty and greatness. To me, the Duomo is home and memory.
I became a Florentine when...
I gave directions to two American tourists. After this, I realized that I truly knew my way around the city and felt like I was home.
period. After taking this class, I learned a lot of interesting facts about the city.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… the Duomo, the Boboli Gardens, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Vecchio.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... ‘salve.’ It’s simple, and you can say hello to everyone.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… History of the Italian Renaissance. Being a history buff and studying abroad in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, I wanted to learn more about this fascinating
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Julia Matina Communications – SUNY Geneseo
My point of reference in Florence is...
is the Arno river. I was fortunate enough to have The Arno located directly behind my apartment. With its close proximity, I found myself there often. The Arno plays such a major role in my experience in Florence because I used it as an escape, whenever I was stressed or homesick. Sitting on the side, reflecting, while observing its beauty passing through the Ponte Vecchio, happened to be one of my favorite things about Florence.
I became a Florentine when...
I got stopped on the street from a couple, asking me to direct them to the Piazza Michelangelo. Only three weeks in, I felt comfortable telling them exactly where to go and was confident about it. I felt less like a tourist and more like a local when I pointed them the right way.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Ponte Vecchio and the Arno. The Piazza San Lorenzo and Eataly at the Mercato Centrale. The Piazza Michelangelo is definitely one of my favorites to go to. The Duomo and Santa Croce are ones I see day to day walking around the city. Also, Santa Maria Novella.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Ciao.” This is because I love saying hi and greeting people.
Billie McKee Communication Studies – SUNY Fredonia
My point of reference in Florence is... the Piazza della Repubblica. I remember going there during my first week in Florence and seeing the carousel. I think that was the first moment it really dawned on me that I was actually in Florence and spending a whole semester here! I look back at this moment often and use it to push myself to make my experience as amazing as I can.
I became a Florentine when...
a couple of Americans approached me in a store asking for help. I was able to answer their questions, and I was even able to give them some tips in terms of food and things to do during their stay here. They were so happy
and thankful, and that moment really stuck to me. It really made me realize just how much I’ve adapted to the culture and feel comfortable and welcome.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… “Intensive Italian Language,” with section 1 being taught by Francesca Tassinari and section 2 being taught by Francesca Peruzzi. Both professors have made me feel incredibly welcome since I have been to Florence, and the course has really helped me learn a lot about the language!
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Watching the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Repubblica, Piazza di Santa Croce, and some local shops.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “mi piace.” It’s a simple phrase, but I like the way it sounds!
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Maggie O’Brien Business Administration – SUNY Geneseo
My point of reference in Florence is...
the Duomo. I distinctly remember entering the Piazza del Duomo and seeing the breathtaking Duomo for the first time. The Duomo is the largest church in Florence made of red, green, and white marble and is located in the heart of the city. It is the tallest building in Florence, so if I am ever lost, I always look up and find the Duomo to reorient myself.
I became a Florentine when... I
ordered my first espresso in Italian. After a few weeks of living in Florence, I walked into a café
near my marketing class. I was able to greet the barista, order an espresso, and thank him entirely in Italian. I was so excited because as I was standing at the bar drinking my espresso, he walked over to me, and we had a short conversation in Italian!
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Exploration of Wine Culture in Italy course. The course itself was an amazing experience because it gave me a greater appreciation for wine and a better understanding of the Italian culture. In Italy, wine is a symbol of relaxation, family,
and enjoying the finer things of life. I gained a skill that I can use during future business meetings and a deeper understanding of the local community.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… hiking the Piazzale Michelangelo, seeing the original statue of David, finding the best gelato in Firenze, and acclimating to the local community.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... ‘Ciao’ because it shows the locals that you are making an effort.
Nestally Pichardo Business Management – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is...
the Ponte Vecchio bridge, Piazza Della Signora, and Piazza del Duomo. In those places, I felt the difference in what it was to be in a place where everyone visits for its beauty, diversity, and romanticism. When you walk to these places, you see how everyone is happy and excited to be where they are. At night, everything feels great, you hear people playing their instruments and see how everyone comes together.
the community. Once I stopped doing that, I felt like I blended in with the rest of the people, and I felt more confident.
I became a Florentine when...
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Visit Boboli Gardens Visit
I stopped looking at my GPS to get to class and home. It felt good not having to take out my phone and walk around with it because this was a sign, I was not part of
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Francesca. I have had two
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Allora” because it can mean many things. I always heard all my professors saying it, and it is a great filler when you do not know what to say.
classes with her, Beginner Italian and Introduction to the Italian Families. Every time I came to class, you would feel her lively energy and how much she cares about her students. I felt like I can come to her whenever I had an issue or did not understand something.
Piazza Michelangelo Eat at Pino’s Eat Gelato at Carraia, take a picture of the sunset at the Ponte Vecchio bridge, buy a real leather bag.
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Katelyn Powers Anthropology – SUNY Plattsburgh
My point of reference in Florence is...
is Santa Croce, being near to my home here in Florence, I can’t help but associate the location to my friends and the fun we’ve had here.
I became a Florentine when...
I left Italy for the weekend and came back, and I felt like I was coming home. My trip to my second European country wasn’t the best, but going through the train station and onto the familiar streets, Florence was like breathing in the air after being submerged in water.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Fabio Binarelli, he is well
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Allora” it is just a filler word
informed, understanding, and enthusiastic. You can learn much from him as a professor.
meaning roughly “and so,” but it is said so often it reminds me that people never stop thinking, moving, and talking in Italy
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Piazzale Michelangelo, eaten gelato from the Gelateria La Carraia, and the beautiful Duomo.
David Rush Biology – SUNY Geneseoy
I became a Florentine when...
I got back to the train station from my second-weekend excursion to Napoli and was just glad to be back in a familiar city. There was just something so soothing about being back in a place of comfort.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… my Intensive Italian
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… wandering around the city until I am lost and then find a place to sit down and eat.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Va Bene,” meaning everything is going well because it is!
professor, Francesca. Being an Italian teacher for English speaking students, her English was better than many of the people I have met thus far in Florence, and that instantly made me more comfortable in her class.
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Sarena Toback usiness Administration – SUNY Geneseo
My point of reference in Florence is... Santa Croce. Living in Corso Tinori 19, this has been the point that told me I was close to home. Whenever I was learning how to get around from one place to another, I would always leave in relation to the Santa Croce. The Santa Croce square is also amazing, and so fun to walk around in.
I became a Florentine when...
I learned how to get around. When I started to be able to get around without using google maps, I started to feel like Florence was my community, and I belonged. One specific example was the
first time I was able to get to my class by myself. Also, being able to communicate select phrases makes me feel like I fit in with my environment.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… the Duomo, visiting the
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Exploration of Wine
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... ‘Grazie.’ It was the first
Culture in Italy. I feel that this class is relevant to Florence while also teaching me new and interesting information. Our professor is so enthusiastic and really loves what he is teaching. I also feel that this is a class that I am going to be able to walk away from with new knowledge that I can use in my professional life.
Accademia Gallery to see the Statue of David and eating authentic Italian food.
Italian word that I learned, and I love using it
Kathleen Tuthill Communications – SUNY Geneseo
My point of reference in Florence is...
the Arno because it was the first thing that I saw in Florence. I live very close to the Arno, so it very quickly became a point of reference to get to places around Florence. Each time I walk along the river, I am taken away by each bridge, especially the beauty at night of the Ponte Vecchio. Each bridge is unique and beautiful.
I became a Florentine when... I
stopped and started enjoying my meals instead of rushing through the experience to get to the next. This Italian value prevents quick meals because they value spending time together and spend time while eating and being together. I felt like a true
Florentine when I sat down at dinner and stayed until we could not stay any longer. The strong value of togetherness, which I value too.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… my Exploration of Wine Culture class. I feel this way because I truly knew nothing about wine, and through this experience, I am gaining a whole new appreciation and knowledge. Our professor Massimo is very knowledgeable and patient with us as we learn to use our senses in a new way while wine tasting. With this class, I will come back with a new skill.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… Piazzale Michelangelo. The piazza has excellent views and a beautiful statue.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... ‘Come si dice…’ because I don’t know how to say many words in Italian.
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Emma Vallelunga Journalism – SUNY Plattsburgh
My point of reference in Florence is...
my apartment. Not only is it where I live, but it’s also where I’ve grown to feel comfortable. I like going out of the house and exploring Florence, but knowing I have a bed and room to come back to is really comforting to me. It’s close to a piazza I like to walk through, my classes are nearby, and my favorite gelato place is down the street.
I became a Florentine when...
I had dinner at a rooftop bar for my birthday one night. There was a street performer below us in Piazza della Repubblica, and
there were a ton of people dancing to his music and eventually singing karaoke as he played guitar. I was far above them, but it was heartwarming to watch and sing along. It felt like a community of diverse people coming together.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Francesca in the Italian Language department here. I had her for the first three weeks of my beginner Italian class. She was always so upbeat and happy to teach us Italian every day. I learned a lot from her, and she’s really relatable when she talks to you one-on-one.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… eating gelato, seeing the city from Piazzale Michelangelo, walking along the Arno River, and drinking Tuscan wine.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... ‘Grazie Mille’ because locals have appreciated me more when I’ve used that in conversation.
Anya Wilcox Public Relations with Political Science Minor – SUNY New Paltz
My point of reference in Florence is... Ponte Vecchio. It was the place that my mom was most excited to visit when she visited. We went on a secret passages tour that just made my entire time here! It was super interesting, and I was taught a lot about the interesting history of Florence, along with a lot about the Medici family.
I became a Florentine when... I no longer needed to use Google Maps to get around. It was a great day, knowing how to get from place to place with no help needed! I also walked into a store and said, “Ciao,” and they started speaking in Italian because of how good it sounded.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… Francesca Tassinari,
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... piacere. It’s a word I use a lot
who taught my Intensive Beginner Italian course. She was probably the friendliest, most approachable professor I’ve ever had. During class, she laughed with us and taught us in the best way possible, and she also tried to show up some things around the city that would help us during our four months here.
to describe this beautiful city.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… secret passages tour at Palazzo Vecchio, Boboli Gardens, I’ve seen the Duomo, Piazzale Michelangelo, Ponte Vecchio, and that’s just the start. I have three more months of exploring.
Fall 2019 Florence, Italy
MY PATH THROUGH FLORENCE
Ziteng Zhuang Economics – Stony Brook University
My point of reference in Florence is...
the Duomo because it has the most beautiful view I have ever seen. The cupola of the Duomo sits in the center of Florence like an exquisite egg. Centuries later, it remains a magnificent feat of engineering and is revered as an architectural masterpiece.
I became a Florentine when... I
arrived
in Italy.
The best class/instructor at FUA was (and why)… I loved all my classes so much; I cannot pick a favorite!
Items checked off my Florence bucket list… the Duomo, the Pitti museum, and the leather factory.
My favorite Italian word/phrase (and why) is... “Grazie!”
CREDITS SUNY PROGRAM Resident Director Fall 2019: Mattia Delle Piane Production Coordinator: Rachael Candoni SUNY PROGRAM Fall 2019