Orientation Information

Prior to their departure students will receive a lengthy and detailed pre-departure orientation handbook which serves as a primer for their study abroad experience in Italy. This handbook is designed to be used in conjunction with the Online Orientation in the Student Portal. Although the on-site orientation will cover the nitty-gritty of life in Florence, the handbook allows students to read up on pertinent information before their arrival in Italy. The handbook covers culture, housing, bugeting, cell phones, food, the university, and numerous other details. Of course, students are always welcome to contact the Italy Site Specialist with any questions.ISA Florence students fly into Rome where they are met by an ISA Director. They will begin their Rome excursion and participate in city tours and orientations. They then travel together to Florence and participate in the on-site orientation run by ISA staff. The arrival orientation is designed to provide students with practical advice for living in Italy and Florence. It covers academic, cultural, and security issues and also includes a tour of the city. Some specific activities include:

• A walking tour of the city to identify the location of banks, the post office, public offices, and the train station
• Orientation meetings held by both ISA staff and host universtiy staff to address practical as well as academic issues
• A security briefing by a police officer to cover safety issues
• An orientation session regarding the "Permission to Stay" (Permesso di Soggiorno) documents that all students are required to complete once in Italy (for semester and year students)