In the fall of 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad at Florence University of the Arts (FUA). As a Marketing and Advertising major at my home university, I was able to enroll in one course that directly transferred credits: Digital Marketing. Alongside this, I immersed myself in the culture and history of Italy through three additional courses—Florentine Neighborhood Walks, Pairing Food and Wine, and Food, Culture, and Society in Italy.
A Deep Dive into Digital Marketing
My Digital Marketing course was by far the most challenging class I took in Italy. My professor was exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate about her field, frequently sharing real-world insights and case studies. However, the course was rigorous, featuring numerous assignments, essays, presentations, and group projects—more workload than I was used to at my home university.
The class was also highly sought after, with every seat occupied. Many students arrived early just to secure a good spot, which was crucial for the three-hour-long sessions. Despite the intensity, the course was incredibly rewarding, providing me with a global perspective on digital marketing strategies.
Exploring Florence Through Neighborhood Walks
The Florentine Neighborhood Walks course was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Every day, we set out to explore different corners of the city, covering several miles on foot. We learned about the culinary landscape of Florence, visited historic eateries, and ventured beyond the tourist areas to discover the more authentic, local side of the city. The course also included food and wine tastings at renowned establishments. As an intensive course, it spanned three weeks, meeting daily—rain or shine.
The immersive nature of this class made it one of the most enjoyable and unique experiences of my study abroad journey. The Art of Pairing Food and Wine My Pairing Food and Wine class was both fascinating and demanding. We delved into the complexities of wine, learning about different regions, production methods, and tasting techniques. Each session included a tasting component, where we analyzed wines based on their flavors, tannins, acidity, intensity, and length. The most challenging aspect was memorizing the vast array of wine regions and their distinct characteristics. Despite the difficulty, the course provided a deep appreciation for Italian wine culture and its integral role in the country’s gastronomy.
Food, Culture, and Society
The Food, Culture, and Society in Italy course felt like a blend of my Neighborhood Walks and Pairing Food and Wine classes. We alternated between lectures and hands-on experiences, visiting grocery stores, wine markets, and restaurants, as well as participating in cooking labs. One of the highlights was preparing traditional Italian dishes in the university’s on-site kitchen. My favorite dish was ribollita, a hearty Tuscan soup known as the “peasant soup,” rich in flavors and history.
Academic Rigor and Campus Life
The academic environment at FUA was structured and disciplined. Students often gathered in the school’s garden or on-site café to work on assignments, collaborate on projects, or simply socialize. However, one aspect that stood out was the strict academic policies—late work was not accepted, doctor’s notes were not considered, and there were no opportunities for make-up assignments. While I understand the importance of accountability, I found this challenging, as unforeseen circumstances can sometimes make attendance difficult.
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad at FUA was a transformative experience that expanded both my academic and cultural horizons. Each course provided unique insights into Italian traditions, cuisine, and marketing strategies, while the immersive learning style helped me connect deeply with the city of Florence. Though the academic rigor was demanding, the overall experience was unforgettable, leaving me with a newfound appreciation for Italian culture and a wealth of knowledge that extends beyond the classroom.
Blog by Ainsley Hufford, Grand Canyon University
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