FLORENCE SUMMER 2024
Welcome to SAI
Welcome to SAI, your gateway to a vibrant and inclusive study abroad community in Europe. Discover innovative coursework, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unwavering support to help you thrive in your educational journey.
We pride ourselves on our guiding principles:
• Personal attention
• Community emphasis
• Immersive experience
• Safety and support
• Affordability & Convenience
About Florence
The treasure that is the city of Florence has attracted visitors from every society, from Roman to modern times. Though Florence is an ancient city, the focal point today is its Renaissance art and architecture, which have contributed to it frequently being named one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, its streets present a stunning reflection of the birth and development of modern society, which shifted importance toward the individual and creativity. Today Florence is also a busy center for business, art and design, and a home to top fashion, architecture and culinary delights.
About Florence University of the Arts (FUA)
Florence University of the Arts is a young, vibrant institution offering liberal arts coursework taught in English that takes a contemporary approach to international education. With small classes taught by highly qualified international faculty, FUA courses aim to enhance the social, intercultural and professional experience of each student. As an urban school, FUA is comprised of several buildings in Florence’s city center that have been refurbished to create spaces for studios, classrooms, and meeting points.
SAI HIGH SCHOOL & PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAM
SAI and Florence University of the Arts (FUA) are pleased to offer high school students and recent high school graduates the possibility to enroll in college-level courses while nurturing their knowledge and talents in a safe and supportive environment. All courses are taught in English, and are supplemented by hands-on activities: excursions to important centers of Italian art and culture; business, design and studio art classes supported by state-ofthe-art facilities; cooking classes in professional kitchens; and fun sporting activities. In addition, Italian language courses offer beginning-level students the tools to communicate in everyday life while taking advantage of the city of Florence as a classroom.
SAI offers two 3 week summer Pre-College options, in which students select two courses to earn a total of 6 college credits.
DATES, COSTS & REQUIREMENTS
2024 PROGRAM DATES
Pre-College Summer I: June 23, 2024 – July 12, 2024
Pre-College Summer II: July 14, 2024 – August 2, 2024
2024 PROGRAM COST
3 weeks / 6 credits: $6,000
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
• Age 15 - 18
• Currently enrolled in high school or recent graduate
• High school GPA: 3.0
Please note: dates and costs may change. For more details on dates, costs, and application requirements follow the QR code links.
SUPERVISION & COUNSELING
The Summer Pre-College Program is fully supervised and includes live-in Resident Assistants (RAs) dedicated to the safety and welfare of the students. Resident Assistants are well-equipped to assist with the transition to life in Florence, and students enjoy the benefits of a strong support network. As well as general assistance to help each student achieve their personal, academic and social goals, RAs are on call 24/7 for health and safety emergencies.
ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS
Student housing is adjacent to the main FUA school buildings and is located in the city center, just a few steps from the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, allowing students immediate access to the various museums, squares, restaurants, cafes and markets that Florence has to offer. Housing is safe and relaxing, and offers large, multi-bedroom apartments similar to dorm-style accommodations. Student safety is a top priority, and housing is monitored 24/7 by live-in Resident Assistants.
The program includes two meals per day. Students dine at GANZO Restaurant, FUA’s culinary learning lab, as well as at some of Florence and Italy’s best eateries. The city is full of food markets, cafes, trattorias, and restaurants, ensuring that students have plenty of opportunity to explore the culinary culture of Tuscany.
360º SERVICES
• Program tuition (US transcript available)
• Accommodation in student apartments with live-in Residence Assistants
• 2 meals per day
• Airport pickup and transportation on arrival and departure day
• Welcome reception and comprehensive orientation to the host city and school
• Staff on-site dedicated to fostering a welcoming community for all students by providing assistance to diverse needs
• Student health insurance providing full coverage and medical emergency evacuation
• 24-hour on-site supervision and support
• Daily extracurricular activities designed to help you discover Florence and Italian culture
• US-based Admissions Counselor assigned to you, providing friendly assistance
• Helpful pre-departure resources and webinars
• $500 return student discount to use toward future undergraduate SAI programs
COURSES OFFERED
Following is a sample of courses offered in both sessions. Please note that courses may change.
Art, Food, Fashion & Wine: Creative Advertising of Italian Destinations
Cultural Introduction to Italy
Dante Alighieri’s Florence: Readings and Cultural Walks
Fashion Design Studio I
Fashion, Media, and Culture
Florence Sketchbook
Food, Culture and Society in Italy
Food, Health and Wellness in Italy
Gallery and Exhibition Curating
Grow Green and Learn Italian
Introduction to Art History
Introduction to Digital Photography
Introduction to Portfolio
Italian Language Beginner
Italian Language Intermediate I
Italian Renaissance Architecture
Lifetime Nutrition, Wellness, and Physical Activity
Magazine Editing and Publishing
Sewing and Construction Techniques I
Sketching and Rendering Accessories
Style and the City: Florentine Fashion Walks
Travel Writing
“During these three weeks, I learned so much about the culture and lifestyle of Florence and Italy. Not only did I get far more out of my courses than I expected, but our weeks were jam packed with all kinds of activities, both local and a train ride away.”
- Mikaylee, SAI Pre-College Student