GROUNDING
Stony Brook University
FUA Florence University of the Arts Florence Italy, Spring 2017
Stony Brook University FLORENCE ITALY SPRING 2017 PROGRAM
Introduction STO N Y B R OOK U N IVE RSITY PROGRAM S p ri n g 2 017
This semester’s project is a reflection on the semester at FUA based on their personal connections with the city of Florence. Each perspective is unique but each expresses a desire for exploration as part of the experience abroad. Although there are similarities and differences with each reference, there is a common thread of grounding that expresses their engagement with both the community and to FUA. Although the Spring 2017 session has come to a close, you are all forever part of the FUA community. Thank you for all that their presence has brought to FUA. A special thanks to Ariana Andretta for all of her effort and dedication to this project, as well as all the students who contributed their experiences to this yearbook.
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!
Me li ssa Rossi SBU Program Resident Director Florence University of the Arts
FLORENCE SPRING 2017
STUDENT PROFILES
Ariana Andretta Major: Theatre Arts/Communication Studies Home University: State University of New York at New Paltz My point of reference in Florence is Piazza della Signoria. When I first began wandering around Florence on my own, I would constantly find my way back to Palazzo Vecchio and the statues displayed in the square. Those steps were an initial point of comfort and a place I could just sit and people watch when I needed a break from reality. I became a Florentine when I caught myself referring to my apartment as home. I had a day trip to Cortona as a field learning for one of my classes and after exhausting ourselves from all of the Tuscan hills we climbed, we all could not wait to return to our newfound home of Firenze for some rest. I thereafter felt different while walking down the streets – like I finally could name this city as another home of mine. The best class/instructor at FUA was Susanna Piccardi because this woman was pure magic. She truly connected with me as her student from the beginning and brought my singing back to a place I never thought it would reach again. Her dedication in helping me even when I doubted myself means more than she will ever know and that I could put into words. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Secret bakery, Ponte Vecchio, Visit a dance studio, Biblioteca delle Oblate, Ditta Artigianale, See an opera, Teatro Verdi ballet My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Quello che non abbassa ingrassa.” It means, “What doesn’t kill you makes you fatter, in a good way.” -Umberto Gori
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Lauren Bennis Major: Entrepreneurship Home University: University at Albany My point of reference in Florence is The waterfall on the river between Ponte alla Carraia and Ponte Santa Trinita. I noticed this waterfall on one of my runs along the river in the beginning of the semester. I’ve passed this waterfall so many times and have always admired its beauty. I’ve watched so many sunsets here, shown friends, and had so many amazing moments by myself at this waterfall. It’s a place where I go to clear my head, read, and write that I find to be one of the most beautiful sights in Florence. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I finally had a short conversation with one of the owners of my favorite gluten-free bakery. I found this bakery one of the first weeks I was here and probably go 4-5 times a week. It’s been one of my favorite places because being gluten-free, it’s hard to find a place where I can eat everything. When I told them in Italian how much this bakery has meant to me, I really started to feel like this is my city. The best class/instructor at FUA was The best class at FUA is Private Voice Coach with Susanna Piccardi! She has called me “the light” and this has meant more to me than she knows. I’ve worked on opera with her and she even asked me to perform, which is such an honor. Taking this class has completely shaped my Florence experience because she is teaching me so much about singing and has boosted my confidence with how much she believes in me and my voice. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Piazzale Michelangelo; learning Italian; eating a ton of gelato, pizza and pasta; drinking delicious wine; seeing the Duomo every day; visiting multiple museums; sitting by the river and admiring its beauty. My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Arrivederci.” I love saying it when I leave a store because I know it means I’ll come back and see the people sometime again.
Samantha Broking Major: History and Mathematics Home University: University at Albany My point of reference in Florence is One of my favorite places to go in Florence is the Mercato Centrale to pick up groceries. I love getting fresh ingredients and was so happy to find this place. I took a tour of the Mercato Centrale for one of my classes and we went through all the best vendors to stop at for meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables, and even olive oils. Throughout the semester, I have gone to there each week to pick up my groceries to cook with fresh ingredients. I became a Florentine when Similar to the above, I felt like a Florentine when I went to the market to pick up fresh ingredients and then cooked them into an Italian dish in my apartment. For the first few weeks, I just visited restaurants, cafes, and sandwich places for my meals, but once I actually ventured to the market and got fresh ingredients, I felt like I actually belonged to the local community. The best class/instructor at FUA was My favorite instructor at FUA is definitely Marta Russo for my Cultural Perspectives class. She is always so energetic and makes the class very enjoyable. She interacts with the class and allows us to ask questions and easily clarifies anything we don’t understand. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Get fresh food from the Central Market and make a meal from it; Gelato (from Via de Neri); See the sunset at Piazza Michelangelo; Ride on the back of a Vespa My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Allora,” “Ciao ragazzi,” “Va bene,” and “Tutto bene” are my favorites because my professors say them a lot and they are always stuck in my head.
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Deborah Chai Major: Digital Media Production Home University: SUNY New Paltz My point of reference in Florence is The Duomo holds a special place in my heart. Other than being the only thing that can really guide me to my apartment in Florence, it is breathtaking and beautiful. It reminds me of the rich history I’m surrounded by and to be grateful every day. I became a Florentine when One of the first times I went to Conad, there was no communication involved. It was just a lot of people brought together by a common goal – hunger and survival. That’s when I felt the most home in Florence. The best class/instructor at FUA was The best instructor I had at FUA was Francesca Peruzzi. She was kind, patient, and hilarious with her students and I have never had a teacher quite like her. She truly wanted her students to succeed and at the same time, she wanted to make us laugh. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Climb to the top of Piazza Michelangelo, eat pasta every day, pet 5 Italian dogs, buy a genuine leather thing My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Allora” because everybody says it and it rolls off the tongue nicely.
Henry Erbland Major: Economics Home University: SUNY Geneseo My point of reference in Florence is Being forced to choose one point, I’d say Piazzale Michelangelo. At home, I love hiking and being able to be overlook something magnificent like a valley or ocean is beautiful to me. With Piazzale Michelangelo, I get that same sort of feeling. When I get an opportunity to overlook something in its entirety it always gives me a gentle reminder of how lucky I am and that’s what this point does for me. I became a Florentine when Strangely enough, the first time I felt truly at home here was when I got back to the train station from my first trip. Before that I’d been a bit uncomfortable here and I never truly considered myself a Florentine. I just felt as though I was passing through on my way to get back home. But when I got back from my first trip, my thought wasn’t “I don’t want to be here,” but instead “I’m so happy to be home.” The best class/instructor at FUA was The class I enjoyed the most at FUA was Tuscany and Its Wines. Now I know how that sounds, but I genuinely enjoyed listening to Massimo’s lectures. He was always extremely engaging and showed a true passion for everything wine, not just the drink. The love he showed for the deep impact that it has played in Italy’s history, as well as the history that Italy has had on it, is something that was truly fantastic to see. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Piazzale Michelangelo, Uffizi Gallery, Duomo, Gusta pizza, Pino’s, Gelato, Tiramisu, Il Mercato Centrale, Ponte Vecchio, and of course going to a Fiorentina match. My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Vorrei la margherita pizza.” It’s my favorite food in the place it originated, so what more could you ask for?
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STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Elianny Maria Moronta Espinal Major: Psychology and Theater Arts double major, Creative Writing and Literature minor Home University: Stony Brook University My point of reference in Florence is My point of reference in Florence is Piazza della Repubblica. It is a quiet, yet contradicting, loud space with pretty views and music that relaxes me. It is fastpaced, but seemingly slow at the same time. The view of the carrousel reminds me of my childhood, and as I see it spin, my thoughts go with it in every circle it manages to make, especially when my mind is troubled. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I finally learned my way around the complicated, maze-like streets of the historic city center, and when I learned where to find the different things to suit my needs: food, clothing, miscellaneous items. My favorite place is the 99 cent store! I find mostly everything I need (99% of the time), and things are actually 99 Cents. The best class/instructor at FUA was The best class at FUA was Cultural Perspectives, with instructor Marta Russo. This class taught me how to make my way through Florence, helping me adapt to what I would call my home for the next few months. She also taught basic manners and language to be able to get by around Florence, at least for the first days. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Some items checked off my Florence bucket list are seeing the Michelangelo’s David, visiting the Piazzale Michelangelo, and visiting the interior of the Duomo. My favorite Italian word/phrase is My favorite Italian phrase is “Mi piacere,” because I see it as an ambiguous word that means “Please,” and “My pleasure,” in my opinion.
Jennifer Finkelstein Major: Advertising Home University: Penn State University My point of reference in Florence is My point of reference in Florence is the Duomo. When I first arrived here, the very first big piece of architecture that I saw was the Duomo. I was immediately taken back by its immense beauty. I remember how my feelings of anxiousness melted away when I realized I would be spending my next 4 months living down the street from such beauty. The Duomo always signifies that I am close to home. I became a Florentine when I had some friends come and visit and I knew exactly where to go. Before this event, I didn’t feel confident with my knowledge of the city but when I had to be the one to show off Florence’s beauty, I felt ready for the task. I took my friends all around to my favorite restaurants, local bars to get cappuccinos and favorite city spots. This is when I became a Florentine. The best class/instructor at FUA was Health and Fitness in the Mediterranean was my favorite because it isn’t a lecture. It is very interactive and every class so far I have done something new and adventurous. Some classes are spent doing fitness-based lessons like hiking to Piazza del Michelangelo and biking through Florence. Other lessons are spent learning about food and cooking. This class allows me to step out of my comfort zone and see different parts of Florence that I would have never seen on my own. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Climb the Duomo, ride the carousel in the Piazza della Repubblica, visit the Piazza del Michelangelo My favorite Italian word/phrase is Mi chiamo Jennifer. I know this is simple, but it was the first Italian phrase I learned while studying here.
FLORENCE SPRING 2017
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Leah Finkelstein Major: Communications, Sciences, and Disorders Home University: Pennsylvania State University My point of reference in Florence is Although it may sound cliché, my point of reference is the Duomo. I have always been bad with directions and finding my way but once I am at the Duomo, I know how to get to many other places around Florence. I had seen many pictures and heard much about the history of the Duomo before I came to Florence but now I feel that I truly understand its importance in the town of Florence. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I became friends with the shop owners next to my apartment. I learned in class that Florentines become friendly with the shop owners near their home and chose to go to that specific store, even if it is more expensive. The shop next to my apartment sells some groceries, drinks, and cosmetic items. Although I can buy these items at the local Conad, I chose to shop closer to home. The best class/instructor at FUA was The best instructor at FUA is Massimo, my teacher for Tuscany and Its Wines. I think Massimo is a great professor because not only is he a wine expert, but he knows how to make a challenging class interesting and enjoyable. I knew that wine could be a tricky subject since it involves many parts, but Massimo makes it clear and concise. Even after a long weekend of traveling, I am excited to attend his Monday morning class. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Some things that I did in Florence that I have always wanted to do was climb the Duomo and see the David. I also tried prosciutto! My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Buon giorno!” I know that every time I hear it, it is the start of a new day in Florence.
Kimberly Friedman Major: Art, Minor in Architecture Home University: SUNY Buffalo My point of reference in Florence is The Duomo is about a 7/10-minute walk from my apartment and every time I see the dome, I know I am close to home. I often use this building as my point of reference when walking around the streets of Florence. I feel safe when I stand in front it and while there are usually a ton of people from every nationality, there are also many Americans in the area. I feel emerged in the Italian culture but also at home when I hear familiar English dialect. I became a Florentine when I think I became a Florentine while working my late night shift at Ganzo. Wednesday nights are Aperitivo and although I have not had Aperitivo myself, I feel Italian while serving the faculty, students, and other Italian citizens who stop by. I get a true feel for what Aperitivo is by working behind the scenes. I doubt I would get such insight on the foods and the way Italian restaurants were run if I did not work there. The best class/instructor at FUA was I am unsure of my professor’s name, but he teaches Introduction to Interior Design at the DIVA school building. He is the sweetest professor I have ever had and he is truly passionate about what he teaches. He studied Architecture, which is also something I am studying, so I often understand the terms he uses and reasoning behind things he explains. Overall, the class is super interesting and a ton of fun! Items checked off my Florence bucket list: I guess I can say the typical places: Duomo, Pisa, Naples, Gelato shops, the Boboli Gardens My favorite Italian word/phrase is ”Buona giornata.” One day at a café a man said that phrase to me and I asked what it meant and he said to have a good day. I don’t know why it made me smile but it did.
FLORENCE SPRING 2017
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Rachel Friedman Major: International Studies Home University: SUNY Buffalo My point of reference in Florence is My point of reference in Florence is a tiny café down the street from my apartment called Caffè Rosanò. I chose the cafe because it holds a lot of meaning to me. When I first came to Italy I was unsure of what to expect and was worried I might not absorb the culture. However, after spending some time in this café and becoming a frequent visitor I finally feel welcome and at home. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I made such a lasting impression on an employee at a cafe that every time I walk in the door they know exactly what I want to order. Nothing makes me feel more at home than when I form a relationship with a local shop. The best class/instructor at FUA was In my opinion the best class/instructor at FUA is Food of Italy Regional Cultures with Giovanni Rossiello. I think it is the best class because it is taught by a professor who is very knowledgeable, engaging and kind. Additionally, the course material is very interesting and taught in a handson manner, which I find very effective and beneficial. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: The Duomo, the Florence Baptistery, Giotto’s Campanile, Piazzale Michelangelo, the Galleria dell’Accademia and the Ponte Vecchio. My favorite Italian word/phrase is My favorite Italian word/phrase is “in bocca al lupo” because the literal translation is “in the mouth of the wolf” but it is used to wish someone good luck.
Alexis Gigliello Major: Communications/Public Relations Home University: SUNY Fredonia My point of reference in Florence is My point of reference in Florence so far is the Duomo. It is a very memorable building because of its size and beauty, however this is my point of reference because it was right down the street from my house. The first few weeks when I couldn’t figure out where I was, I would just find the Duomo and know how to get home. It gives me comfort. I became a Florentine when I remember when I finally felt like I had a real-life schedule during the first few days that I went to class, the gym, and the grocery store and was able to cook dinner afterwards. It made me feel less like I was on vacation and more like I was actually living my life in Florence. There was nothing specific that made me feel at home, it just took time and adjustment. The best class/instructor at FUA was My favorite class was my Beginner Italian Language class. I have only completed half of it so far, and it is every day at 9:00am. Despite the early time of the class, I feel as though I have learned so much in only three weeks. I feel pretty confident ordering food/coffee and understanding directions. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Piazzale Michelangelo, discovering small neighborhoods, finding the best gelato, visiting a museum (Galileo, so far), take a cooking class My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Allora” – Professors, tour guides, and locals say it all the time “Grazie” – One word I always knew I was using correctly
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STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Hope Glassman Major: Psychology and Women & Gender Studies Home University: CUNY Hunter College My point of reference in Florence is I would consider the Boboli Gardens to be my point of reference in Florence. It allows for a little peace and serenity in the middle of the high energy of the city. It is also special because the full history and beauty of Florence is eternally on display there. It’s always nice to know that for only 7 euro, I can escape to one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen! I became a Florentine when A friend and I went to get gelato and ended up running into the girl who sold me my leather jacket at a little Florentine shop. She then invited us to hang out with her and her friend, and we had a really fun night all together! The best class/instructor at FUA was The Dante walks class with Marta Russo is amazing! Not only do we get to learn about an iconic author and important figure in Florentine history, but we get to do so through walking tours around this beautiful city. Marta is also a funny and engaging professor who makes learning the material fun and easy. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: IKEA, Gusta Pizza, daily gelato, seeing Michelangelo’s David, buying a leather jacket, hanging out in a piazza, taking ATAF My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Prego” because it means anything and everything. It’s also my favorite brand of tomato sauce back home in the states!
Emily Lazarus Major: Art Home University: SUNY New Paltz My point of reference in Florence is A meaningful event was my first visit to the l’Accademia. I have been studying the David for about five years. Ever since I first discovered my passion for art I always looked to the David for inspiration. When I got to the statue I instantly started crying. I felt as though all of my hard work had paid off and I was finally at my destination. It felt surreal to see my idol in person. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I first made an Italian dinner with my Italian family. I felt at home. The best class/instructor at FUA was Art therapy with Niccoleta because I loved learning about art therapy and she taught it well. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Piazzale Michelangelo, seeing my favorite artists’ work in person, and meeting new cool people. My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Allora” because I actually know what it means and I hear it all the time.
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STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Hayley Lovett Major: Physics and Adolescence Education Home University: SUNY Oneonta My point of reference in Florence is Although it may seem simple and overly obvious, the Florentine lily, or Giglio, has become very meaningful for me. Everywhere you look in Florence, you can see the symbol. It is on buildings such as Palazzo Vecchio, proudly flying on the flags during an exciting soccer game, and even on the small platelets along the city sidewalks. For me, this lily, which is actually not a lily at all, symbolizes culture and pride, but above all, it symbolizes home. I became a Florentine when This first time I truly felt at home in Florence was when I went shopping alone. I was on my own and doing everyday things in what was once a foreign city to me. I spoke to a merchant entirely in Italian and went exploring by myself, of course stopping into Zara to try on some dresses. It was the first time that I felt like a local and not just the typical American tourist passing by. The best class/instructor at FUA was My favorite professor has to be Renata. She taught my Italian language class and she was extremely helpful. I loved this class because I started to feel that because my Italian was improving, I could truly become a local of Florence. It was exciting to ask her about the cultural aspects of Italy and even more exciting when I had to explain my culture to her! Items checked off my Florence bucket list: I have spoken in Italian to a merchant at Mercato Centrale, visited David, scaled to the top of the Duomo, rode on a Vespa through the wine country and so much more! My favorite Italian word/phrase is My favorite Italian word has to be, “Ganzo!” Only in Tuscany does “ganzo” mean “cool” and I love being a part of this local secret!
Rachael Maretsky Major: Hospitality & Tourism Management Home University: St. Joseph’s College My point of reference in Florence is The Argin Grosso Preschool is my Florentine point of reference. It is comfortably embedded in the Italian environment and accepting of a foreigner like myself. From the first day I was there the kids were affectionate and elated to have me. The language barrier is a bit tricky, but it doesn’t keep the 4 year olds from speaking Italian to me. The location is in the outskirts of Florence, getting me away from the tourist culture and into a more realistic Italian lifestyle. I became a Florentine when I felt welcomed to Florence when I went to a restaurant about a week into living here. I went with a large group and the manager seemed a bit annoyed at first. I got up to get change and spoke with him about his restaurant. He was ecstatic to share with me and appreciated my interest. He handed me a 20% discount card for the next time I was to come in. I was flattered by the acceptance into the local community. The best class/instructor at FUA was Olimpia Bozza is the most gleeful person in Italy. She has led the orientation for SBU, the Cultural Perspectives class walk, and works at the front desks. She has the best sense of humor and is always optimistic. Her English is broken but understandable and the way she describes words she doesn’t know is entertaining, to say the least. Olimpia is a very animated and bubbly person and a perfect addition to the FUA staff. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: I didn’t come with any expectations, only an open mind. I’ve accomplished a number of things that make me happy; eat good food, eat better gelato, walk slow, appreciate the little things, talk to everyone. My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Va bene. Allora” is the most common thing I say because it’s the most common thing everyone says.
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STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Julia Margolis Major: Psychology Home University: SUNY Oneonta My point of reference in Florence is I particularly enjoy the Piazzale Michelangelo because it is so peaceful (when it’s not crowded and during sunset). It gives me a moment to really reflect on my time here thus far and what it’s meant to me. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I was embraced by the locals who live near me, and in the same building as me. They welcomed me with open arms and made me feel safe. The best class/instructor at FUA was The best class was Mystery of Wine because I love wine and to learn in detail about it was amazing. Massimo is also so enjoyable and fun; he keeps his students entertained. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: I have had the opportunity to enjoy some amazing sights and my favorites have been the Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, and the incredible Duomo. My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Allora” is my favorite Italian word because it’s fun to say and it is said by everyone on a daily basis!
Andrea Modica Amore Major: Social Sciences & Interdisciplinary Relations (International Studies) Home University: University at Buffalo My point of reference in Florence is Santa Croce would be my point of reference here in Florence. In the beginning of my time here in Florence, before I had a handle on where I was going, if I saw the church, I would know that I was close to where I needed to be. Even though I become more comfortable with the city every day, if I am lost for any reason, I am at ease as soon as I see the church. I became a Florentine when I honestly wouldn’t consider myself a Florentine (yet)! I feel that it is still early on in my time here. I try to encounter locals as much as possible, however, when I met my neighbors for the first time, I did feel a sensation of familiarity. She said that if I needed anything to not be afraid to ask! I felt at home for the first time at this moment! The best class/instructor at FUA was Umberto Gori – The Italian American Experience I think Umberto is my favorite teacher here at FUA because he is so knowledgeable! The class is about Italian immigration to America and I find it very interesting. He not only teaches us about this, but he explains to us that it is important to understand the material and connect it in a way that makes sense. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Buying produce at the central market, eating a Florentine steak, people watching in front of the Duomo, watching the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Dimmi”: After I drink my cappuccino/expresso and I walk up to the counter to pay, often times they say “dimmi!” like “tell me! (What you had in order to pay) I love it!
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STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Emma Pizzuti Major: Political Science and Economics Home University: Stony Brook University My point of reference in Florence is I found a café my second day here that my time in Florence just revolves around. It’s a small authentic place filled with everyday people from Florence. By the second time I went I became a regular and everyone has been extremely kind and accepting of me. Though most of them don’t speak any English we have been having conversations that surpass the language barrier and that have been helping me learn Italian. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when coming back from Milan on the train as soon as I saw the city I felt a sense of relief and that I was back home. The best class/instructor at FUA was The best class has been Food and Culture with Vitoria. She’s just so lovely and cooking with her and everyone has been great. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Going to Piazzalle Michelangelo and the Uffizi Gallery and knowing almost every street. My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Sto pieno” which means “I am full” because Italians try to feed you even if you’re full.
Micaela Rodriguez Major: Psychology Home University: SUNY University at Albany My point of reference in Florence is The square that has most meaning to me is Piazza della Repubblica. In the last century the square had a messy past but from that it transformed into something beautiful. The former Jewish Ghetto is now a place where people meet and enjoy its modern fairytale ambiance. I find this place to be special because it reminds me of myself and my former inner struggle that helped me become the person I am today, whom I’m proud of. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I no longer felt intimidated walking into stores by myself despite not knowing the language. I became a Florentine when I began to feel comfortable in my surroundings because as soon as this happened I began to feel free. The best class/instructor at FUA was My favorite class at FUA is my cross-cultural psychology because it helped me gain insight into different aspects of culture that I was not aware of. This will help me as an aspiring psychologist and as a person who is always surrounded by people of different cultures and ethnicities. My professor also created a free space where students can share their experiences and thoughts with everyone. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: During International Women’s Day I checked off seeing The David and The Creation of Venus from my Florence bucket list! Eating gelato and pasta is also off my list! My favorite Italian word/phrase is My favorite Italian word is “allora” because it has such a simple and versatile meaning while sounding enthralling.
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STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Samara Rynecki Major: English and Psychology Home University: Binghamton University My point of reference in Florence is My point of reference in Florence is Piazza San Marco because it is always busy and hectic, yet in the middle by the benches there is an area you can find solitude and quiet. I am able to process my thoughts and write in my study abroad journal. It has shaped by experience by creating a simplistic spot for me to hangout when I want to be alone but not lonely. It made me realize that Florence is a place of comfort for all kinds of people. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I was able to walk into a restaurant and not feel discouraged based on the language barrier between the staff and myself. I went out to eat with my friends one night, and I was able to forget about my lack of knowledge on the Italian language and order as if it were normal for me to speak to someone in a different language. I felt comfortable for the first time. The best class/instructor at FUA was The best class is Literature of the Grand Tour of Italy because we are able to learn about Italian writers and poets and other artists from different European countries, while being immersed in the same atmosphere and environment they are writing about. It is very cool to be able to read about Santa Croce or The Uffizi, while sitting outside one of those historic buildings. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Visit the Uffizi; see the David; eat at Mercato Centrale; take a cooking class My favorite Italian word/phrase is My favorite word is “allora� because it is highly useful and sounds so beautiful when Italians say it aloud.
Ashley Stromberg Major: Legal Studies Home University: University at Buffalo My point of reference in Florence is The Ponte Vecchio was the first major landmark I saw when I first came to Florence. When I saw it, it finally hit me that I was abroad. Every time I walk past it, it feels like just another normal day. The second place is Piazzale Michelangelo because when I hiked up there with one of my roommates to see the sunset, it was packed. You got to see a full view of the city and it was beautiful. It was another unforgettable moment during my experience abroad. I became a Florentine when I visited the Ponte Vecchio for the first time. It finally resonated with me that I live in Florence and am so lucky to have this experience. At first, I felt as if there was a language barrier, but never culture shock. I felt so at home and everyone around me was so accommodating and friendly. I wake up and start my day just as a person who lived in Florence their entire life would. The best class/instructor at FUA was Tuscany and Its Wines. My instructor, Massimo, was so nice and welcoming. I did not know what to expect when I thought about taking classes in another country, but I did not expect it to be just like America. To my surprise, it was. Marta from my Cultural Perspectives course was delightful and so sweet; she was without a doubt my favorite instructor. Although I did not love the course, she made the course more enjoyable. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Just coming to Florence to study abroad was a dream of mine, so this entire experience was a huge bucket list check; but something specific would have to be hiking the Piazzale Michelangelo. My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Parla inglese?� would definitely be the most helpful phrase I have used in Italy because it helped establish a common ground between myself and anyone that I was having a conversation with.
FLORENCE SPRING 2017
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Maria Sweezy Major: Psychology Home University: University at Albany My point of reference in Florence is Caffe Notte is the coffee shop that is right on my block. I have spent many hours there writing letters to home and working in my journal. They have cheap cappuccinos and it is only full of locals. The sculptures on Santa Trinita Bridge are a landmark I look for on my walk home. Living on the other side of the river has given me a very authentic look at Florentine life. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I bumped into some British women visiting Florence in my corner store and I was able to make recommendations of the best places to eat and visit during their stay. It felt great to have this figurative backpack full of experience I could share with other travelers. The best class/instructor at FUA was I truly love my art professor, Andi. She is a breath of fresh air and such a free spirit. The way she initiates and guides the class is like an older sibling rather than a parent. She provides insightful in class discussions and allows you to practice your art in a meaningful way. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Some of the best so far have been: visiting Santo Spirito church, watching Calcio Storico, eating the gnocchi at Osteria Santo Spirito, endless cappuccinos, the markets My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Grazie Mille.� You can never be too thankful.
Mackenzie Traut Major: Painting & Art Education Home University: SUNY New Paltz My point of reference in Florence is One of my favorite points in Florence is the statue of Neptune. I remember clearly sketching it one day and having many people come up and ask me about it. It was not just tourists, but also Italians and their families asking me about this statue. This is where I fully realized the importance of these public spaces in Florence. These squares are places for people to gather and experience the city. I became a Florentine when One time I felt at home in Florence was when I finally realized I knew my way around the city. One of my favorite things to do in my free time is to walk around and enjoy the day. Florence is unlike anywhere I have ever been and I love that I can experience that daily. The best class/instructor at FUA was My two favorite instructors are Umberto Gori and Marta Russo. These two people are amazing because they are very clear and considerate. Their classes are also very interesting and keep me coming back and looking forward to the next one each week. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: The item I checked off my bucket list was to visit and see all of the museums. I have been to most of them and I just have one left to check off but the fact that I have seen all of these great pieces of art in person is absolutely unfathomable, or at least it would have been a few moth ago. My favorite Italian word/phrase is My favorite Italian phrase is “Allora� because I am often at a loss for words and it is a perfect way to signify thought without sounding stupid.
FLORENCE SPRING 2017
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Christina Trupia Major: Mass Communications and Journalism Home University: SUNY Oneonta My point of reference in Florence is In one of my favorite movies, Under the Tuscan Sun, a writer moves to Tuscany, where she begins a new piece of her life. As she is fixing up her Tuscan villa, she finds a portrait of Mary upon her bed frame, which acts as her small piece of comfort. On my walk home on via San Gallo, I pass my own image of Mary that brings me comfort in my day to day life. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I visited the Mercato Centrale on my own, exchanging words in Italian with the vendors while purchasing fresh fruit from the local area. The best class/instructor at FUA was Elisa Fiorucci, my Culture Journalism professor, has taught me so much since being here in Florence. She encourages us to go out and experience all that Florence has to offer, and appreciate the new culture that we are in. She always suggests places to see and offers her support and tips for getting around Florence. In her class, I have learned to appreciate the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that surround me. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Climbed to the top of the Duomo, watched the sunset along the Arno River, attended a Fiorentina soccer game, gotten lost (purposefully!) in my new home city My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Va bene,� because everything is going to be okay!
Sophia Valente Major: English/Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies Home University: Binghamton University My point of reference in Florence is Piazza Santo Spirito certainly does not have the intricate architecture and massive buildings such as the rest on the other side of the river, but it is always brimming with locals. The restaurants there are the absolute best I have had during my time here, and the weekend markets are always a lovely way to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. To me, it has an energy about it that captures the true spirit of Florence. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I settled into my morning commute; I have a 9 o’clock class every day, Monday through Friday, and initially my sense of direction caused me to feel like an outsider as I stumbled my way to class. Once I grew to understand my half hour commute across the river, I eased into the flow of the city and felt as though I belonged. The best class/instructor at FUA was My favorite professor at FUA is Marta Russo. I’ve taken many literature classes throughout my college career, and she does an incredible job at engaging her students with the texts that were written hundreds of years ago. Her bright and infectious personality makes me look forward to the class each week. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: IKEA, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens, Palazzo Vecchio, Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Fiesole, Santa Croce, Piazza Michelangelo, Gusta Pizza, daily gelato My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Vorrei un cono 2.50” I say this multiple times a week when I order a gelato cone at La Carraia, and it has taken a special place in my heart.
FLORENCE SPRING 2017
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
Samantha Ventimiglia Major: ? Home University: University at Buffalo My point of reference in Florence is My point of reference in Florence is the Boboli Gardens. Back home, I usually do not like going places without someone accompanying me. Since being abroad, I have tried to venture out and do things by myself. Going to the Boboli Gardens by myself allowed me do a lot of selfreflection and step out of my own head. I became a Florentine when I became a Florentine when I started volunteering at San Paolino. Although I am only there 2 hours a week, it makes me feel like a part of the community. The kids and mothers who live there and the workers do not speak English. This forces me to practice my Italian in order to communicate with them, making me feel more Florentine. The best class/instructor at FUA was Three instructors have stood out to me here at FUA, Renata, Marta, and Martina. They all seem to love what they do and try their best to make sure I understand everything that is going on in class. Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Eating pizza more than twice a week and hiking Piazzale Michelangelo My favorite Italian word/phrase is “Vorrei una margherita pizza.�