This program’s signature course, Living Siena: Exploring Historical & Contemporary Tuscan Culture, guides you on an exploration of the region as you develop an independent research project throughout the semester. Customize your academic experience with an Italian language course, English- or Italian taught area studies courses, and an optional part-time internship.
Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
The enchanting city of Siena is your home base as you explore all that Tuscany has to offer. World-renowned cuisine, more than 120 nature reserves, medieval masterpieces everywhere you turn, and the hustle and bustle of Florence (just an hour away).
History comes to life in Siena, as is most evident in the robust life of the contrade— neighborhood districts that divide Siena into 17 large families with common customes and traditions dating back to the Middle Ages. Through activities of your contrada, you can learn from your neighbors how the contrade have influenced social, political, and religious life for centuries.
It’s been almost two weeks since my time in Siena ended, and while I’m excited to be back home with my family and my cats, I’m starting to miss the life I had...
