Middlebury School in Italy
Via degli Alfani, 48
50121 Florence, ITALY
Tel. 055.24.57.90 (within Italy)
Tel. 011.39.055.24.57.90 (from U.S.)
http:// http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/italian
Director: Rosa Cuda
mailto: rcuda@middlebury.edu
Assistant to the Director: Patrizia Nesti
mailto: pnesti@middlebury.edu
Academic Services Coordinator: Laura Sieni
mailto: lsieni@middlebury.edu
Student Services Coordinator: Carol Prout
mailto: cprout@middlebury.edu
Sede opens 6, 2015[Fall Term]
Monday-Thursday: Morning: 9:00-13:00, Afternoon: 14:00-18:00
Friday: Morning: 9:00-13:00, Afternoon: 14:00-16:00
Sede opens 10, 2015[Spring Term]
Monday-Thursday: Morning: 9:00-13:00, Afternoon: 14:00-18:00
Friday: Morning: 9:00-13:00, Afternoon: 14:00-16:00
International Programs and Off-Campus Study
Sunderland Language Center
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT 05753
Tel. 802.443.5745
Fax. 802.443.3157
mailto: schoolsabroad@middlebury.edu
Italian School
Sunderland Language Center
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT 05753
Tel. 802-443-5510
Fax. 802-443-2075
mailto: kgennare@middlebury.edu
Please note that information in this Handbook is subject to change.
Copyright 2015 by Middlebury College. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic or otherwise, without the
prior written permission of Middlebury College.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome letter from the Director ........................................................................................ 6
Pre-departure Information ................................................................................................... 1
Approximate Program Costs ............................................................................................ 1
Expenses .......................................................................................................................... 1
Living Expenses ........................................................................................................... 1
Student Visa/University Registration ............................................................................... 2
Registering with the U.S. Department of State ................................................................. 3
International Students ...................................................................................................... 3
Travel to Italy ................................................................................................................... 3
TSA Regulations .......................................................................................................... 4
Airline Luggage Regulations ......................................................................................... 4
Comfort in Flights........................................................................................................ 4
List of Things to Pack ...................................................................................................... 4
General Packing Suggestions ............................................................................................ 4
Clothing ....................................................................................................................... 5
Bed and Bath Linens .................................................................................................... 5
Toiletries ...................................................................................................................... 5
Prescriptions ................................................................................................................ 5
Electrical Appliances .................................................................................................... 5
Computers ................................................................................................................... 6
Gifts............................................................................................................................. 6
Customs ..........................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Arrival in Italy ...................................................................................................................... 6
Immigration ..................................................................................................................... 6
Travel to Florence ............................................................................................................ 6
Orientation ...................................................................................................................... 6
Permit of Stay (Permesso Di Soggiorno) ...................................................................... 7
Academic & Administrative Matters ..................................................................................... 7
Graduate Program............................................................................................................ 7
Courses at the Sede ....................................................................................................... 8
Independent Research Project ...................................................................................... 8
Courses at the University of Florence........................................................................... 8
Internship for Academic Credit .................................................................................... 8
Italian-Style Education ..................................................................................................... 8
Course Format ............................................................................................................. 9
Academic Expectations ................................................................................................ 9
Exams ........................................................................................................................ 10
Learning Outside the Classroom .................................................................................... 10
Volunteer Work ......................................................................................................... 10
Museum Entrance Fees .............................................................................................. 10
Cultural Activities ....................................................................................................... 10
Living in Italy ..................................................................................................................... 10
Housing ......................................................................................................................... 10
Deposits ..................................................................................................................... 11
Housing Options ....................................................................................................... 11
(1) Italian Homes ....................................................................................................... 11
(2) Apartments Shared with Italians .......................................................................... 12
Resources for Finding Housing ...................................................................................... 13
Real Estate Agencies .................................................................................................. 13
Meeting Italians .............................................................................................................. 13
Travel within Italy .......................................................................................................... 13
Working in Italy ............................................................................................................. 14
Health and Safety ............................................................................................................... 14
Sexual Assault and Harassment ...................................................................................... 14
Health ............................................................................................................................ 15
Drugs ............................................................................................................................. 15
Psychological Health and Counseling ............................................................................. 15
Medical /Accident Insurance ......................................................................................... 16
On-site Money Matters ...................................................................................................... 16
Currency Exchange ........................................................................................................ 16
Money and Banking ....................................................................................................... 16
Credit and Debit Cards .................................................................................................. 17
Emergency Cash ............................................................................................................ 17
Communication with Home & Friends .............................................................................. 17
Communication and Immersion ..................................................................................... 17
Language Pledge ............................................................................................................ 18
Mail ................................................................................................................................ 18
Internet and E-mail ........................................................................................................ 18
Skype ............................................................................................................................. 18
Phones ........................................................................................................................... 18
Fax and copying ............................................................................................................. 19
Academic Calendar ............................................................................................................ 19
Grade Equivalency ............................................................................................................. 19
Local Information .............................................................................................................. 20
Appendix A: Sample Affidavit of Support ......................................................................... 2
Appendix B: Sample Affidavit of Insurance ...................................................................... 2
Appendix C: Sample Bank Letter ....................................................................................... 2
Temporary Accommodations ..........................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
WELCOME LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR
Dear Students,
Welcome to Florence, and welcome to the Sede located in the historical Palazzo Giugni.
Middlebury’s Sede or main offices are situated in a Renaissance building designed by
Bartolomeo Ammannati, the celebrated 16th century architect and sculptor.
Palazzo Giugni is located just across from the University of Florence. The neighborhood is
full of small cafés, shops, and services essential to university life. The area is bustling with
students and is vibrant and vivacious. The University of Florence, like the Sede, does not
have a campus. Like most European universities, its departments and buildings are dispersed
in various parts of the city. Middlebury has had a close relationship with the University of
Florence since the 1960s.
Florence is a special place, rich in history and in cultural opportunities. You are strongly
encouraged to take full advantage of the museums, galleries, theaters, music, lectures, and the
many exhibitions that are offered each year. Participating as much as possible in the
activities of this cosmopolitan city will greatly enhance your overall Italian experience.
Immerse yourself in the city and you will come away with an experience that reflects
Florence today.
Along with its benefits, however, life in Italy can present challenges. It requires
independence, maturity and a sense of humor that will enable you to accept the inevitable
difficulties and frustrations that go along with living in a different culture. For example, be
prepared to change some of your study habits since libraries in Italy have limited hours and
generally close by 6 or 7 p.m., and to adjust to an environment that will seem less structured
and efficient than the one you are used to.
The School in Italy staff will make every effort to help you get settled in Florence and will
advise and assist you with any problems you might have during the course of the program.
Ultimately, however, it will be up to you to make the most of your experience abroad.
We hope that you will find this year in Florence, and your studies at the School in Italy, to be
stimulating, enjoyable, and very worthwhile.
Rosa Cuda
Associate Professor and Director
Middlebury School in Italy
PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM COSTS
The following web Site estimates program costs as of February 2015. Please remember that
Middlebury College only bills you for the tuition portion (academic fees); the remaining expenses will
be out-of-pocket. Figures may vary depending on individual lifestyles and situations. For financial
aid purposes the exchange rate is €1=$1.30. The “personal” figure covers only some basic necessities
local transportation, cell phone, bank fees, program-sponsored excursions, etc.) and does not and is
not intended to include students’ discretionary spending (e.g., entertainment, fitness, and travel).
http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/italian/dates_fees
Fluctuating exchange rates make advanced planning of costs challenging. We advise that you
overestimate your costs to accommodate these fluctuations. Please be sure to confirm the exchange
rate shortly before your departure so that you budget accordingly.
EXPENSES
Keep in mind that the amount of money you spend
ultimately depends on the lifestyle you choose.
Remember to budget extra if you are planning to travel
before or after your program. Travel during the course of
the semester is not recommended and not always
possible due to course schedules and make-up classes.
However, train travel and the appearance of low cost
airlines like RyanAir and EasyJet have kept traveling
relatively inexpensive and attractive to students. Be
aware, however that the cost of these trips can add up
quickly.
If you are a big spender in the U.S., it would be a good idea to bring more
money. If you plan on regularly sampling the nightlife, you should budget extra money for taxis to
take you safely home as buses usually stop running by 12 a.m.
Living Expenses
Please consult the estimated expenses online for the financial aid figures relating to living costs in
Italy. Additionally, a sample budget worksheet is provided in the appendix for students who need
help developing a budget. The following costs are a breakdown of estimated living expenses.
Furnished apartments shared with Italians per month:
-
€400 single room
€80 electricity, gas, heating, water
€350 groceries [students enrolled at the University of Florence can eat at the cafeteria (mensa)
for approximately €4/meal]
€370 miscellaneous
€1,200 total est. monthly costs
Italian Homestay costs per month:
1. €550 – Room (no meals included)
2. €800 – Room, breakfast plus one full meal per day (mezza pensione)
Middlebury School in Italy
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STUDENT VISA/UNIVERSITY REGISTRATION
A student visa gives you permission to study in Italy and is required of all students (unless you have
an EU passport). The first step of applying for a visa is to apply to the University you will attend, and
after that is complete, you will submit a visa application.
Middlebury College will submit the materials on your behalf to the Boston Consulate to process your
university pre-registration for Italy:
1. Al Magnifico Rettore (3 copies)
2. Attestato (must be typed) (3 copies)
3. Informazione Personale
4. Passport photocopy (Your passport must be valid six months beyond the projected last day
of stay in Italy. Non-U.S. citizens must provide a copy of their green card, or I-20 and F-1
visa. Please be certain your passport is signed. If you will not have your passport before
our deadline, please let International Programs and Off-Campus Study know immediately).
5. Four (4) passport-sized photos, with your signature along the right-hand side (on your
picture)
6. Enrollment Verification from Middlebury College registrar (we will obtain this for you)
Middlebury College will apply for your student visa on your behalf through the Italian Consulate of
Boston in July. As a study abroad program provider, we follow an abbreviated application process
which currently requires the following items:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Visa application form completed and signed (must be double-sided)
One (1) passport-sized photo
Your original passport.
Flight itinerary showing your name and the exact dates of entry and exit from Italy. The full
city names must be listed on your itinerary (not just airport codes). Your itinerary must also
indicate the border of entry into Italy (i.e., the city in Italy where you are arriving first). Oneway tickets are not acceptable.
You are strongly advised to apply for your visa through Middlebury. If you are unable to have
Middlebury apply for your student visa, either because you have lost your passport or because you
will need your passport to travel while we are processing your visa, let the Vermont office know
immediately. If you have chosen not to obtain your visa through the Middlebury group visa
application, you are responsible for obtaining your own visa. We will provide you with a program
enrollment letter and a proof of insurance letter that will be required as part of the regular student
visa application. If choose to apply on your own for a visa, it will be your responsibility to gather all
of the remaining materials and apply through the Italian Consulate with jurisdiction over your
permanent residence. Each Consulate may request different documentation and it is your
responsibility to obtain any required items. You are also required to obtain an “Attestato Consulare”
from the Consulate, which may be either a document returned to you with the Middlebury College
letter, or just a Consular stamp on that letter. You must submit a copy of your visa and your
“Attestato Consulare,” from the Consulate to International Programs before you depart for Italy.
The visa is required to participate in the program and all students must bring a copy of your original
passport and visa with you on the first day of orientation in Italy. The “Attestato Consulare” is also
required in original form when you arrive in Italy for orientation. Without these documents you will
not be issued a permit of stay (permesso di soggiorno) and therefore will not be allowed to stay in the
country or be able to participate in the local university, so it’s crucial that you get them from the
Consulate and keep copies somewhere safe.
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EU Citizens
Students holding dual Italian/EU citizenship and American citizenship, who do not hold an Italian
high school diploma or Italian university degree are strongly encouraged to apply for the program in
Italy using their American or non-European documentation, as the process is simplified and can be
expedited by the IPOCS office. If you must apply as an Italian/EU citizen, and have not obtained
your high school diploma or university degree at an Italian institution, you are currently required to
obtain an apostilled copy of your high school diploma and an apostilled college or university
transcript from your BA institution. This documentation must be translated by an authorized
translator and then brought into the appropriate Italian Consulate for the formalization of
documents, called dichiarazione di valore in loco. You must then bring this documentation with you to
Italy. The registration process will then take place directly in Italy. You are urged to complete this
procedure at least one month prior to your departure for the program in Italy.
REGISTERING WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
In addition to securing a visa, all students who are U.S. citizens are required to register themselves
with the U.S. Embassy in their host country before departure from the U.S. In the event of
international, political, or family emergencies, or in the event that a passport is lost or stolen, the U.S.
Embassy will be much better able to assist registered students. Please visit the Department of State’s
Web site and follow the links to register:
https://step.state.gov/step/
Registration is fast and costs nothing. Please print the confirmation page after you have registered
and keep it for your records.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) require re-entry documents for some foreign
nationals. If you are living in the U.S. but are a citizen of another country, check with the USCIS to
determine the regulations that apply to you and be sure to obtain all necessary re-entry documents
before you leave the United States.
TRAVEL TO ITALY
You are responsible for your own travel arrangements. We recommend using a student travel
agency for flexibility and the best rates. Some agencies to investigate, among others, are:
STA Travel: http://www.statravel.com
Student Universe: http://www.studentuniverse.com
Travel CUTS: http://www.travelcuts.com
Please consult the School in Italy calendar on the web before planning your travel dates. We
recommend that you arrive in Florence a few days before the start of orientation in order to become
familiar with and adjust to your surroundings.
We further recommend that your travel plans allow you to arrive during the daytime so you will be
able to find your way around and visit stores, etc. if necessary. It is especially important that you not
plan your return to the United States or travel to another destination before the date of the last
scheduled final exam. Exam dates cannot be changed to accommodate students’ travel
plans. No exceptions will be made- so please don’t ask.
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TSA Regulations
The Transportation Security Administration regulates what items may be carried aboard aircrafts and
these regulations are subject to change. Therefore, you should consult their Web site close to your
date of departure:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/index.shtm
Please note: Possessing certain items while going through security may result in fines of $250 $1,500 or, in the case of firearms, may be considered a criminal offense.
Airline Luggage Regulations
You should contact your airline to confirm exact luggage allowances. We strongly suggest you stick
to these guidelines, or be prepared to pay excess baggage fees, which can be quite expensive. We also
suggest that you consider insuring your luggage through a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
Some travel insurance is included under the HTH Worldwide policy. Furthermore, it is possible that
you may be covered under a policy held by your parents, so investigate this prior to departure. Travel
insurance options can be researched at:
http://www.insuremytrip.com
Comfort in Flights
The following recommendations should help you during the flight and may ease the effect of “jet
lag” when you arrive at your destination:





Wear loose-fitting clothes while in flight, as well as shoes that can be removed easily.
Replenish fluids frequently. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which are dehydrating. Too much
coffee or tea can also cause dehydration.
Contact lens wearers should remove them or use saline solution every few hours.
Those with sensitive skin should carry moisturizing cream.
Take a walk around the cabin when the seat belt sign is off.
LIST OF THINGS TO PACK






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Guidelines for Studying with a Middlebury Graduate School Abroad:
http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/italian/program_tracks/florence/handbook
This handbook!
Passport/visa and supporting documents provided by the Consulate [+ 1 copy]
Airline ticket/electronic ticket information [+ 1 copy]
Proof of Insurance from HTH Worldwide
Extra passport photos
Debit/Credit cards
Certified copy of original birth certificate or Driver’s License (in case your passport is lost or
stolen)
Medications in original containers and copies of prescriptions
GENERAL PACKING SUGGESTIONS
Plan carefully what to bring, keeping in mind that you will have to carry all of your own luggage while
traveling. This means TRAVEL LIGHTLY. We cannot emphasize this strongly enough! Choose
each item carefully and avoid duplication.
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Consider what you will use for luggage. As you pack for the flight over, also keep in mind that when
you travel you will be carrying this same luggage by yourself, sometimes over great distances or on
crowded trains. Take things that are easy to manage and avoid over-packing. One rule of thumb is
to pack your bags and walk around the block with them three times; then re-pack.
Although most U.S. brands are sold in Italy, you may find them costly. If you cannot do without
certain items or if you are not willing to experiment with local products, take a sufficient supply with
you.
Clothing
Winter in Italy can be cold and damp, and has a penetrating chill. Heating in Italy is not always
adequate, so you will need warm woolen clothing, including a heavy winter coat or a down jacket.
The best idea is to bring clothing that you can layer, so, as the seasons progress, you can dress
accordingly.
Bed and Bath Linens
We do not recommend that you bring sheets, blankets, or pillows with you. They are too heavy and
take up too much space in your luggage. These items are also costly to ship in advance and can be
easily purchased once you arrive in Italy. If you are going to be living with a host family, sheets and
blankets will be provided. You may want to consider bringing one hand towel and one bath towel
with you, which should suffice until you can purchase more.
Toiletries
Toiletries are readily available in Italy. If you are particular about brands, you may want to pack an
appropriate supply of the articles you regularly use.
Prescriptions
If you are taking any medication that requires a prescription you should bring a full supply of what
you will need during your entire stay in Italy with you on the plane. It is advisable to bring all the
original prescription forms and a note from your doctor to avoid possible questioning. Mailing
medicines across international borders is extremely complex, expensive, and often impossible.
Prescription medicines should be left in their original containers. Please also note that in the event
that a prescription must be replaced in Italy, you should have the GENERIC NAME of your
medication on the prescription, in addition to the U.S. 'brand' name.
If you are under a doctor’s care for a specific condition, you should bring a copy of your medical
history with you or sign a release form with your doctor in case your medical history needs to be sent
to a doctor in Italy.
Electrical Appliances
The electrical current in Europe is 220 volts/50 cycles rather than the 110 volts/60 cycles found in
the United States. You should make sure that any appliance you bring is 110/220 compatible.
Transformers and adapter plugs are available in Italy, but it is best to buy them in the U.S. before you
leave, since U.S. transformers are lighter and cost less.
Occasionally, even though a transformer is used, an appliance may not work properly. Because of
this difficulty and because of their weight and bulk, you may want to leave most electrical appliances
at home and buy those that you find absolutely necessary after you arrive in Italy. Some electrical
appliances (e.g., hair dryers) can be bought inexpensively in Italy.
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Computers
Computer resources in Italy are more limited than in the U.S., even if there are many locations
such as internet centers and cafes throughout Florence that are equipped with computers and WiFi
service. We highly recommend that you bring a laptop. Most, if not all, new laptop models are
equipped with self-setting transformers; however, it is advisable to check the power cord to
determine whether the laptop has dual voltage (110/220).
The Sede is equipped with several computers available for student use, wireless internet, and laser
printers (for academic use only). These resources are only available during the Sede office hours
(see inside front cover).
Gifts
If you are planning to live with a host family, you may wish to present them with a token gift.
Choose a gift that has some significance to you and is packable and light. Consider the following
gifts:
• Books - with lots of photos
• CDs of current U.S. music and your favorite songs/artists
• Items representative of where you are from (e.g., maple syrup, saltwater taffy, handicrafts)
ARRIVAL IN ITALY
IMMIGRATION
When you arrive in Italy, you will pass through Immigration. You’ll need to show your passport and
visa.
TRAVEL TO FLORENCE
To get to Florence, you should fly into Florence’s small, but
efficient, airport (FLR) or the next closest one in Pisa (PSA),
about 40 miles away. Taxis from the Florence airport to the city
center
will
cost
around
€25
http://www.aeroporto.firenze.it/it/ipasseggeri/trasporti/taxi.html. There is also a bus service,
Volainbus, from the airport to the Santa Maria Novella train
station. The bus runs every ½ hour on the hour and the cost of
a one-way ticket is €6.00 one-way and €10.00 round-trip:
http://www.ataf.net/
For information about taxi service: www.4242.it. A taxi driver will charge a supplement for each
piece of luggage.
For students arriving at Pisa-Galilei airport, a train leaves from inside the airport and takes you all the
way to Santa Maria Novella, the principal railway station of Florence (1.5 hours); the trip costs
approximately €9.30. From the train station, take a taxi to your final destination.
For more information please check the website of the airport you will be flying into: Florence(FLR):
http://www.aeroporto.firenze.it/it/
Pisa (PSA): http://www.pisa-airport.com/
ORIENTATION
The first week of the program is dedicated to several required orientation meetings, during which
practical help will be given to help you find permanent accommodations and adjust to your new
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environment. You will also have a series of personal interviews with the director, devoted primarily
to academic matters.
Permit of Stay (Permesso Di Soggiorno)
You will begin the process for requesting a permesso di soggiorno prior to arrival in Italy, and
complete it after arrival in Italy. More information will be provided via email and at the on-site
orientation. The following items are required to complete the request for a permit of stay:
1.
Letter issued by the Italian Consulate when you received your visa, duly stamped (see section:
Student Visas) [VERY IMPORTANT]
Your passport and student visa
Four passport-sized photos
Proof of HTH Worldwide health insurance and/or Italian Health Insurance (optional),
available from the School in Italy after your arrival. For more information see section: Medical
and Accident Insurance
€190.00 to cover the cost of the Permesso di Soggiorno.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The documentation listed above must be brought to the orientation meeting in Italy.
EU citizens must supply the Sede with the documents listed in the University Registration section of
this handbook.
Students who remain in Italy without a Permit of Stay are in violation of Italian law. They cannot be
registered with the program, and the School in Italy is not responsible in this situation.
Codice Fiscale (Fiscal/Tax Code)
You are required to have a Codice Fiscale. The School in Italy will inform students regarding how to
obtain the Codice Fiscale prior to arrival. Students may choose to obtain the document on their own
once they have arrived in Italy at the Ufficio locale dell’Agenzia delle Entrate:

Via S. Caterina d’Alessandria, 23 in Florence
Opening hours for these offices vary. Most offices are open Monday to Friday 8:45-12:45pm.
passport is required to apply for the Codice Fiscale.
A
ACADEMIC & ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
GRADUATE PROGRAM
The M.A. degree in Italian in Florence consists of four “streams” or areas of concentration. You
must select one stream as a major. The M.A. degree is comprised of twelve units to be taken in a
combination of a summer in Vermont and an academic year in Florence. Students may choose to
present an independent research project worth two units of credit.
After successfully completing three courses (units) during the summer session on the Middlebury at
Mills campus, M.A. degree candidates begin their studies in Florence.
You may choose to complete your M.A. degree in Florence or return for another summer to the
Middlebury at Mills campus. Based on this decision, you will be required to take a certain number of
units each semester. Each semester you will enroll in semester-long courses in language, linguistics,
literature and culture at the Sede and may take classes at the University of Florence. During the
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second semester, students may choose to carry out an internship for academic credit. You will
choose your university course after consultation with the director and according to the distribution
requirements indicated for the area of concentration that you have chosen.
Graduate students receive one unit of credit for each course at the Sede and for those taken at the
University of Florence. The independent project is worth two units of credit.
You must fulfill the following minimum distribution requirements for the M.A. degree:
General Studies in Italian*
1 language course (1 unit) at the 500-level, 1 language or linguistics course (1 unit) at the 600-level, 2
units in civilization, 3 in literature. If you plan to teach and are completing the M.A. on the
Middlebury campus you must also include one unit in methodology or professional preparation.
*This stream is meant for students who prefer not to specialize in any specific area. The courses
required for this stream are culled from the other streams.
Literary Studies
1 language or stylistics course (1 unit); 5 units in literature; 3 units to be chosen from culture and
communication and/or linguistics courses.
Language and Linguistics
1 language or stylistics course (1 unit); 5 units in linguistics; 3 units to be chosen from literature
and/or culture and communication courses.
Culture
1 language or stylistics course (1 unit); 5 units in culture and communication; 3 units to be chosen
from literature and/or linguistics courses.
There is no rebate for students who elect to carry less than the normal course load.
Courses at the Sede
Students will choose among courses that will aid in meeting the requirements of their stream.
Independent Research Project
The independent research paper should be based in part on course work done during the summer
school or during the first semester in Florence. Permission may be granted to write a paper on other
topics under the supervision of a faculty member. The paper (40 pages in length) should demonstrate
a high level of written control of the language as well as critical and analytical skills. Once completed,
you will prepare a final oral defense of your work before a project committee.
Courses at the University of Florence
Courses are available in the following areas: linguistics, literature, theater studies, philology,
archaeology, art history, ancient and modern history, and political science.
Internship for Academic Credit
Students are eligible to complete an internship for academic credit only in the second semester. The
requirements to obtain credit for an internship include a final research paper (20-25 pages in length)
and a commitment of 12 hrs/week at the location of the internship.
ITALIAN-STYLE EDUCATION
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Studying in an academic culture different from your own allows you to develop new skills and new
work methods. Enrolling in regular courses at an Italian university alongside Italian students offers a
unique opportunity for deepening your intellectual
and linguistic growth as well as providing additional
opportunities for social immersion. Students
enrolled in “mainstream” courses (regular university
courses) are subject to both the privileges and
restrictions established by the university
administration.
Course Format
It is important to note that a course in an Italian
university is usually a series of lectures,
presentations or seminars designed to guide
students in their study and preparation for a final
oral examination. Lectures are meant to help
students approach an immense body of knowledge from a more informed viewpoint. After taking
detailed notes in class, it is up to the student to pursue their own further investigation of the subject
matter. Good note-taking is absolutely crucial in the Italian system. Certain courses may also require
a paper or a written exam. A typical university course is made up of academic sections called moduli.
Courses at the university entail classroom instruction and independent preparation by the student of
critical readings, texts, etc. assigned by the docente, who plays a very important part in the final exam.
Students strive to follow the professor who leads them, but does not necessarily tell them where they
are going. This may explain why syllabi and assignments are not organized as they are in the U.S.
Most courses meet 3 times a week for 2 hours. Professors usually provide extensive bibliographies
and expect students to work “judiciously”.
Academic Expectations
Professors will probably not distribute any handouts or syllabi for the course. You should not take
this to mean that your professors do not expect you to work. Professors assume that students
will do large amounts of reading and research outside of class. In the Italian system, students must
organize themselves to complete the bibliography handed out by the professor over the course of the
semester. They are expected to read the material and be prepared to answer questions at the final
exam on what was presented at the lectures, information found solely in the texts indicated by the
professor or a combination of both. Some students (Italian and foreign) choose to do the minimum.
Seminar sections will be organized for University classes in order to help you prepare for the
final exam.
The Italian university system has its own rhetoric and codes that students (including foreign students)
should learn. It includes acquiring a new vocabulary, way of thinking, and style.
Most Italian professors understand that foreign students temporarily registered at the University will
not have the same preparation and methodology of study as local students. Still, they expect that all
students make an effort to acquire the most from their class and to put in the time that is needed for
the preparation of the final exam.
N.B. Students enrolling at the University of Florence must first pass an oral examination administered by a professor
from the university. Normally, the examination consists of a conversation on a variety of topics. This will take place
during on-site orientation in Italy.
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Exams
As a registered student at the university, you are required to take final exams during the official exam
period and at the same place and time as the Italian students, even if students on other study
abroad/exchange programs are allowed to opt out or rearrange exam schedules. If you miss the final
exam for a course, you risk failing!
Exam dates both at the University of Florence and at the Sede will not be changed to accommodate
students’ travel and or summer job/internship plans, even if individual professors agree. No
exceptions will be made, so please don’t ask.
LEARNING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
Volunteer Work
Volunteer work is not easy to find but is available to students staying in Italy. You may have to take
a short course before beginning any volunteer work. You should think hard before taking a volunteer
job because it is necessary to maintain it for the time you are in Italy, and often the initial enthusiasm
wanes after the first few weeks. Talk with the staff at the Sede for more information.
Museum Entrance Fees
Middlebury College will pay for museum visits in conjunction with field trips. You will have to cover
additional fees for visits required by course work and research. Museums throughout Italy cost
between €6 - €12. Churches are often free, but those with important works of art may charge
between€5 - 6. Students enrolled in art history courses at the University of Florence may be entitled
to free entrance at state-run museums.
Cultural Activities
Other options that can facilitate your immersion include sports, cultural, and outdoor activities. The
School in Italy staff are available to advise you on the wide range of possibilities Italy has to offer.
LIVING IN ITALY
HOUSING
Failure to adhere to the housing policies will result in you being required to change your residence,
and this means losing your rental deposit or payments.
You are responsible for choosing and paying for your own housing following the rules of the School
in Italy. The School in Italy will assist students in finding housing, but students must realize that the
process can be time consuming and requires patience.
You will have the option of securing your housing prior to arrival or searching for a place to live
upon arrival. Many students prefer to pre-select a housing option before traveling to Italy. By preselecting housing, you may alleviate the stress of searching for accommodations during the first
weeks of the program. If you wish to commit to one of these arrangements you will be required to
submit a deposit to the landlord in Italy to hold the space. When making a commitment prior to
arrival in Italy, you must understand that you will be required to give at least one month’s notice to
the landlord/lady should you decide to move out. If you commit to a home, your financial obligation
to your host equals two month’s rent.
If you choose to pre-select housing, expect to pay your first month’s rent plus a security deposit
equivalent to one month’s rent in advance to reserve the residence. The deposit will be kept as
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security against damage or outstanding bills until you leave. Note that rent is paid monthly at the
beginning of the month.
Deposits
In renting an apartment, or other lodging outside of the pre-selection process, it is common practice
for the landlord to request a security deposit for up to three months’ rent in advance. This deposit
may be used to cover any damage incurred during your stay or to reimburse the landlord or host in
the case of your leaving prior to the termination of the lease or date agreed upon. Italian hosts also
expect that the first month’s rent will be paid upon arrival. Therefore, we strongly urge you to come
with enough money to meet all your expenses at the beginning of your stay in Italy.
All students must complete the Housing Questionnaire in StudioAbroad.
Once the questionnaire has been received, the Housing coordinator will email the students who have
requested information on pre-selection. The email will communicate the dates the pre-selection
service is open to reserve a housing option in July.
The deadline for sending the questionnaire and all information about the pre-selection process can
be found at:
http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/italian/program_options/florence/housing/allogio.
While Middlebury is not contractually responsible for housing arrangements and does not have
authority over any lodgings, you should be confident that you will find housing that suits your needs
and means.
If you choose to wait until you arrive in Italy to arrange your own housing, the School in Italy can
provide you with a map of your host city and a list of accommodations with Italians or with Italian
families that have not already been selected. The School in Italy does not have a list of independent
apartments for rent. You should consider various options and several different places before deciding
where to live.
If you choose not to pre-select housing, we suggest you arrive early and have a lot of patience.
Before choosing any housing option, it is your responsibility to READ ALL CONTRACTS
CAREFULLY AND UNDERSTAND THE TERMS, CONDITIONS, AND “FINE PRINT”.
Middlebury does not have any authority to make agreements concerning lodging with Italian hosts
and/or landlords; however, you should not hesitate to ask for assistance if something is unclear.
The Sede offices are closed during the months of August and late December/early January therefore
staff will not be available to aid students in their search during those periods.
Housing Options
There are generally three types of housing arrangements in Italy: 1) homestays, 2) apartments, or 3)
private student residence halls.
(1) Italian Homes
There is no doubt that living in an Italian home can be a rewarding experience for a study abroad
student who is willing to adapt to a different culture and lifestyle. The use of Italian in the home and
contact with Italians in their daily routine are among the advantages of this experience. Nevertheless,
you must be aware that integration into the Italian home is gradual and that many things taken for
granted in our own homes are often viewed from a different perspective in an Italian household. If
you wish to feel like part of the household and have a more active participation in the Italian way of
life, you should seriously consider having one meal (usually dinner) a day (mezza pensione) with the
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host family. Dinner then, becomes the time to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and to better familiarize
yourself with the Italian way of life and improve your Italian language skills.
Although living with an Italian host may sound ideal, it is important to consider the following:
 privacy may be relatively limited;
 while a “homestay” may involve cultural exchange, it is also a business agreement in which
each party has particular rules by which to abide;
 it is unlikely that a host will allow you to have friends or guests over;
 utilities in Italy are costly; guests (even paying guests) should be careful to turn lights off
when leaving a room, keep showers short and minimize hot water use. If you have phone
privileges, keep calls short and to a minimum;
 kitchen privileges may or may not be granted;
 if you commit to a homestay, you are financially
obligated for a minimum of two months’ rent.
Breaking a verbal or written agreement will jeopardize
future students’ ability to stay with these hosts. The
School in Italy has developed special relationships with
these families, who trust that our students will be
responsible for fulfilling their obligations.
(2) Apartments Shared with Italians
There are two main advantages to finding housing with
Italians: you will be immersed in the language and Italian students usually pay less compared to
students in the U.S. (although apartments are often not centrally located and are of lower standards),
so you will be able to save money. However, there are difficulties in finding this kind of
accommodation:
 Most Florentine students still live with their families, and those from other towns and cities often
arrange to live together far in advance. It is not always easy for Americans to break into Italian
social circles and find housing with those students who do live in apartments;
 Because Italian students sometimes have to pay for the whole year (12 months’ rent), they tend
to prefer persons who will stay (and pay) for the months of June, July, and August. On the other
hand, there are students in residence year-round who may be looking for roommates at any time
of year;
 Academic year students usually have a better chance of finding Italian students as roommates by
either accepting a living situation for one semester and then moving in with Italian friends for
the second semester, or by arriving early and pursuing many apartment leads from the university
or local papers; however, you may have difficulty changing housing mid-year without breaching
an existing contract or alienating friends with whom prior agreements have been made.
For some of you, obtaining and maintaining an apartment are experiences you have not had before.
It requires an initiative that, in many cases, has up to now been the responsibility of your parents,
guardians, or college housing officials:
 Utilities are not usually included in the rent, and certain house repairs (leaking faucets, appliance
malfunction, etc.) are expected to be paid for by the tenant. Students are advised to obtain in
writing what responsibilities they have for making repairs to major appliances.
 Tenants must conform to anti-terrorism laws by
informing the landlord of the number of people actually
living in the apartment. (This includes friends and
relatives staying for more than two or three days.)
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RESOURCES FOR FINDING HOUSING







Pre-departure – Prior to departure students can choose from the School in Italy catalogue
Sede - After your arrival, a listing of available housing will be available upon request.
For a list of ads for single and double rooms for students, which can be helpful in finding
housing check websites such as:
http://www.unifirenzeaffitti.it/annunci.php
http://www.lapulce.it/
http://www.easystanza.it/toscana/firenze/stanze-firenze/annunci/l
Scuola di Studi Umanistici e della Formazione, Piazza Brunelleschi and Via Laura, 48– Italian
student ads posted on bulletin boards
Real Estate Agencies
There are real estate agencies you can hire to assist you in finding apartments. If you choose to use
an agency:
 Find out the agency’s commission (from 7% of the total monthly rent up).
 Read and understand the contract provided by the agency and the contract for the apartment. If
you have any questions bring it to the Director or staff before signing.
 Make sure you understand the policy regarding the deposits.
 Inquire as to exactly what services are offered by the agency, which may act as a sort of
intermediary between the client and the landlord.
MEETING ITALIANS
Developing friendships with locals can add significantly to your learning experience in Italy. Besides
language practice, you can also gain insight into the local culture and society. Middlebury encourages
you to meet and talk to local citizens. Building friendships with students can be a rewarding and
insightful experience, and the School in Italy strongly encourages you to pursue such relationships.
One of the questions we are asked most frequently is how to go about meeting Italian students. You
will need some courage and a good deal of initiative; results may not live up to your expectations,
especially right away, but be patient. Those of your predecessors who have been successful in this
respect would say that the best approach is to find a group activity that includes Italian people:
playing sports, choral singing, cooking/wine tasting courses, volunteer work, internships, etc.
Keep in mind the strategies you would use at home to meet people you are interested in knowing:
you try to be where they are, you try to share an interest or an activity that will bring you into contact
with them, and you get to know people who know them. It goes without saying, if you have one or
two Italian-speaking acquaintances to start, it can only make things easier. Conversely, if you insist on
speaking English, it will make interacting with locals more difficult.
TRAVEL WITHIN ITALY
We encourage you to take advantage of the vacation periods not only to explore your site, but to get
to know other Italian regions as well.
Hitchhiking and ride sharing as modes of transportation are strongly discouraged. The
practice is regarded by security officials to be extremely unsafe. Buses and trains provide a
low-cost, safe alternative.
We also strongly discourage couchsurfing for the same reasons. Couchsurfing may tempt
you as an interesting way to get insight into a new culture, but you would be lodging with
strangers.
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When leaving the city overnight or longer, you should notify the staff of your itinerary and/or
addresses and phone numbers where you can be reached. This information will be kept confidential
and used only in case of emergencies or urgent messages from parents. As a matter of courtesy and
common sense, students living with hosts should similarly inform them when they plan to be away.
Train
The most popular mode of transportation in Italy and in many other countries in Europe is the train.
Check http://www.trenitalia.com or www.italotreno.it for timetables and rates.
Bicycle
Many train stations offer bicycle rental. An attractive travel option is often to travel by train to a
nearby or distant destination and then explore the countryside by bike on your own. Bicycle
excursions are oftentimes offered by student travel agencies or by student organizations. Check
bulletin boards at the institutions where you are taking courses. In some cities it is common to use a
bike as your primary means of transportation.
Budget Travel Resources
The book Let’s Go Italy is very useful for information on budget lodging and meals, sites and places
of interest, transportation, and helpful addresses such as post offices, cybercafes, etc. It is updated
yearly and sold in the U.S. You can also visit their website at: http://www.letsgo.com/
WORKING IN ITALY
It is usually very difficult for Americans to find a job in Italy, whether professional, clerical, skilled,
unskilled, full- or part-time, primarily because there are more job-seekers than there are jobs.
Furthermore, a non-European citizen may not work in Italy without a work visa, and ordinarily a
work permit is not issued by the Italian government in any instance when a foreigner is seeking to fill
a position for which Italian citizens are qualified and available. In view of this, students are urged
not to come to Italy with the hope of finding work.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
As a foreign student, you should take the same precautions you would in any large city, anywhere in
the world. During orientation, we will address the issue of security in greater depth. For more
information about general conditions in Italy, you can also see the Department of State information
page.
SEXUAL ASSAULT AND HARASSMENT
A recent study has shown that studying abroad may increase your risk of unwanted sexual contact.
The Department of State has this to say:
http://studentsabroad.state.gov/smarttravel/forwomentravelers.php
Our on-site staff is your primary resource for advice to keep yourself safe and can also direct you to
local support resources. When in a foreign country there are very subtle things that distinguish a
foreigner from a local and often these traits are what can call unwanted attention to young women in
particular. Culturally, what constitutes harassment may be different but whether one considers it
harassment or unwanted attention, the advice that local experts give is the same. If you experience
persistent pestering, although it isn't accompanied by violent intent, it can be annoying and
frustrating nevertheless. Silent indifference is often the most effective policy, as is looking as
confident as possible. If you feel threatened it's always a good idea to look as though you know
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where you are going, even if you don't. Any attempt to hurl Italian insults in the direction of the
transgressor is, at best, likely to cause ridicule - and at worst, could well inflame the situation further.
The advice given by local professionals is to ignore any unwanted attention and continue on your
way. Head towards an area that you are familiar with so that you are not isolated and if you are being
followed, head to a public space and not directly to your home.
In cases such as these and especially if an episode escalates or turns violent or if you feel threatened
in any way, it is imperative that you report the incident. The staff at the Sede is available to help in
any way and there are also local resources one can turn to. The following associations provide
emotional, psychological and legal support.
Florence
Associazione Artemisia
www.artemisiacentroantiviolenza.it
Via del Mezzetta 1
055602311
HEALTH
Whenever you go to any foreign country, you are exposed to germs against which your body has not
yet built up a resistance. You may, therefore, be more susceptible to illness than local people are.
This is as true for Americans going abroad as it is for those coming to the United States.
Bring enough medicines for your entire stay, as they may be difficult to acquire, and customs may
prohibit shipping of medicines. Any medication that requires refrigeration should be brought to the
attention of Middlebury prior to departure as special arrangements may be necessary.
The School in Italy’s staff reserves the right to send any participant home who, in the judgment of
the staff, is not mentally or physically fit to continue in the program.
Accommodations can often be made for students with allergies. Please notify program staff of any
allergies before committing to a program so that a discussion can begin regarding necessary
accommodations.
DRUGS
Different countries view use of narcotics in a variety of ways. In most countries, drug use for other
than medicinal purposes is illegal, and the local authorities may take official action against anyone
found using or possessing any kind of drugs. The use of drugs by foreigners in Italy may result in jail
sentences and penalties.
Use of recreational drugs while attending the School in Italy is strictly prohibited.
PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH AND COUNSELING
Students should be very realistic about their abilities to function in a high-stress environment. Rather
than disappearing in the new surroundings, conditions like depression and eating disorders are often
exacerbated by a stay abroad. Psychological counseling services are available in Italy, but are not
always available in English. Students with particular concerns in this area are encouraged to consult
with International Programs at Middlebury prior to departure.
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MEDICAL /ACCIDENT INSURANCE
Students participating in the Middlebury School in Italy are automatically enrolled in a study abroad
health insurance plan for the duration of the program through HTH Worldwide. This coverage is
mandatory and cannot be waived. The HTH insurance plan provides up to $100,000 medical
coverage (accident/sickness) with zero deductible. There is also medical evacuation and repatriation
coverage. Coverage begins on the first day of your program abroad and ends on the last, with the
option to purchase additional months of coverage by contacting the insurance provider directly.
Additionally, students are offered the possibility to purchase a secondary health insurance policy once
in Italy from an Italian government-sponsored insurance company (INA-ASSITALIA) to
supplement the HTH policy.
The cost of the policy is about €100 for one year. This insurance covers only hospital (Pronto Soccorso)
care in Italy, but will be convenient if you need urgent tests or surgery. ASSITALIA will cover 100%
of emergency expenses. This insurance policy will not cover you when traveling outside of Italy.
Enrollment in the ASSITALIA insurance plan is done when you arrive in Italy. Information and
forms for the postal money order (Conto Corrente Postale) will be available from the staff of the School
in Italy. As part of the visa application process you may have to sign an affidavit agreeing to purchase
this insurance upon arrival in Italy.
ON-SITE MONEY MATTERS
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
At the time this handbook went to press the exchange rate was €1.00=$1.30. However, the exchange
rate may fluctuate between now and when you arrive in Italy. The easiest way to know the current
exchange rate is to check on this website: http://www.xe.com/
MONEY AND BANKING
You should make arrangements for your travel funds early. For your initial expenses, you should
have immediate access to approximately €1,500/2,000. This will cover your first month’s rent, book
purchases, personal expenditures, as well as allow for unanticipated expenses. We also advise you to
change $200 into Euros before arrival or at the airport. ATMs are readily available at airports and
around town but check with your bank for information on transaction fees before leaving.
Nowadays, a credit/debit card is probably the most reliable method for changing money in ItalyVisa and MasterCard are the most common. They also give you the opportunity to change money as
you need it, and possibly at a more favorable rate of exchange. Travelers checks are also a reliable
way of handling money, but may only be exchanged at banks.
You should be aware that it is difficult to cash personal checks in Italy, especially for large sums of
money.
You may choose to open a checking account in one of several banks in Florence. You will receive
information about banking during orientation week. When at the bank, ask for detailed information
about costs and service charges. A letter of introduction from the School in Italy and a copy of your
financial guarantee (see the Student Visa section) are needed to verify your enrollment in the
program. All banks require a Codice Fiscale (Fiscal Code).
 Via S. Caterina d’Alessandria, 23 in Florence
At the end of your stay in Italy, remember to close your account if you opened one. You should
be certain to follow the bank’s procedures, which involve not using your account several days prior
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to the official closing of the account. Violation of these procedures will jeopardize the possibility for
future students to open accounts. In addition, if you do not close your account, the next time you
return to Italy, you may find you owe the bank for their services in your absence.
If you choose to open a bank account in Italy, you can arrange with your bank to transfer funds
directly to the Italian account. Your bank will ask for the bank name and address, the account
number, routing number, IBAN, and SWIFT/BIC. This type of money transfer is the easiest and
the least complicated way of receiving funds from the United States. It takes approximately five
business days (depending on your bank) for a transfer to clear. Of course, there is a service charge.
For those students who plan to receive money orders, we recommend that they have them sent via
FedEx, which takes about two working days.
Every bank in Italy has an ATM that can be used to obtain cash advances in Euros from credit card
accounts or to withdraw money directly from U.S. banks connected to Cirrus, Plus, or other
networks.
Banking hours in Italy are normally 8:20 to 13:20, Monday through Friday. There is also an afternoon
opening hour, which varies from bank to bank (usually from 14:45 to 15:45).
CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS
Throughout Italy and Europe it is possible to use credit and debit cards to get cash from a bank
during business hours or from ATMs. You should make sure your cards are valid for international
cash advances and be certain to get the valid PIN number. Call all of your banks prior to leaving for
Italy to let them know you will be using your card abroad so they don’t put a hold on your account.
Also check what the daily (and in some cases weekly) limit is for withdrawing funds, as well as the
bank fee charged per withdrawal.
EMERGENCY CASH
BEFORE you leave the U.S., you should discuss with family and friends a plan for getting more
money during the program. Check Western Union details and service fees, credit cards, and ATM
daily limits and availability.
COMMUNICATION WITH HOME & FRIENDS
COMMUNICATION AND IMMERSION
Students who seek maximum immersion should note that regular communication with home can
significantly hinder their language progress and their adjustment to the new culture. If your goal is
maximum immersion, you should prepare your family and friends for the reality that even when
possible, regular calling or e-mailing may interfere with your language acquisition. If there is an
emergency, your family will learn about it immediately. Otherwise, you can remind them that no
news is good news.
An informal journal can be kept by recounting your activities in letters or postcards home and
requesting that your friends and relatives keep the letters for you. You may want to number your
letters so that all letters can be tracked, and the people receiving them will know when one has been
delayed or lost. Blogging can also be a great way of updating all of your friends and relatives at the
same time while keeping a record of your experiences.
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LANGUAGE PLEDGE
The Pledge you will sign upon arrival in Italy reads: "I will speak only Italian for the duration of my
participation with the School in Italy."
Italian must be spoken at all times, except in the case of a genuine emergency, a visit from family
(English may not be spoken with family when within earshot of anyone related to the program), or
when an exception is made by the staff in Italy. Phone calls to family and friends overseas, whether
over the Internet, from a land line or from a cell phone, are allowed as long as one is out of earshot
of other students and roommates.
MAIL
For security reasons, the School in Italy cannot accept mail or packages addressed to students.
Please have all of your mail sent to your personal address.
We recommend that any letters containing important information be sent by certified mail or by a
courier service (e.g., Fed Ex, DHL). Expect that a package will arrive in 15-30 days. There is no
specific method to avoid paying Italian customs charges on packages sent from the U.S. It is
important that the sender be accurate when describing the contents and their value. It cannot hurt to
write the contents in Italian too. It is unadvisable to write “gift” on the package as this may delay it
at Italian customs. If a package arrives when you are not home, the mail carrier will leave a receipt
for the package that you can then pick up at the post office. When you collect your package,
remember to bring a passport or other form of identification, as well as money to cover the Italian
customs tax that will be charged.
INTERNET AND E-MAIL
Students have access to Internet and e-mail at the Sede when it is open. WiFi is also available.
Florence has a large number of Internet points, many of which remain open until midnight every day
of the week. WiFi is also available at many cafes and bars throughout the city.
SKYPE
Students typically keep in touch with friends and family using web services at low or no cost. Former
study abroad students have recommended using Skype, a free software or app download that allows
you to talk to other users or call/text phones: http://www.skype.com. Apps like Google Hangout,
Viber and Facetime are also popular.
PHONES
The use of cell phones in Italy is common. The most widely used option is a prepaid “pay-as-yougo” service. It is the simplest and most economical for making and receiving cell phone calls or
sending text messages while in Italy, since you are always in control of how much you spend and you
do not have to sign a contract or service agreement. Prepaid phone cards have a predetermined
amount of call credit and can be easily recharged. There are three main cell phone companies: TIM,
VODAFONE, and WIND. You should consider carefully which one best meets your needs before
you commit to a plan. A basic cell phone will cost you about €50 and can be easily purchased in any
of the many phone retailers in Italy.
The telephones at the Sede are for the use of the director and staff only. Students may not receive
telephone calls at the Sede, except in the case of an emergency.
As long-distance calling charges are rather costly, we caution students to be very careful in making
long distance calls from telephones from which they receive bills; splitting telephone bills is not
always easy. Disagreements on how to divide phone bills can generate serious friction among
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housemates. To reduce telephone bills, we suggest that students and their families find a mutuallyagreeable time during which your family will call you. Students who hope to use U.S. calling cards or
international 800 numbers while in Italy should contact their U.S. phone company before they leave
and receive detailed information about how to use their services in Italy.
The telephone directory lists tariffs, time differences, and emergency numbers such as the Police
Department, Fire Department, etc. Supplements to the telephone directory called “Tutto Città” and
“Pagine gialle” provide a wealth of information including maps of the bus lines, a complete list of
street names, museums, restaurants, hospitals, etc.
Overseas calls can be made from any telephone booth (the country code for the U.S. is 001).
However, there are several telephone centers in the city which offer privacy when making your call.
It is possible to dial direct and the connections are generally excellent.
Local and long-distance calls within Italy may be made at phone booths and bars that display a sign
with a red telephone. Instructions for telephone use are written clearly in English on the phone itself.
Public phones also offer the convenience of using plastic carte telefoniche (magnetic telephone credit
cards), which may be purchased at most bar-tabacchi and newsstands (edicole) There is a wide selection
of companies that offer discounted pre-paid long distance calling cards, for sale in bars and at edicole,
which may be used with both public and private phones. These companies offer competitive rates
for calling cards such as 250 minutes to the USA for €5 if calling from a landline or public phone.
FAX AND COPYING
The fax and photocopier at the Sede are for the use of the director and staff only. Many copy centers
and Internet cafes have fax machines. Fax service is also available in the larger post offices.
Please note that any photocopying required for coursework is considered the responsibility of the
student. The school photocopier cannot be used for such purposes. There are several copisterie
located near the Sede where you can have photocopies made or make them yourself.
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
You should consult the School in Italy calendar (both for the Sede and for the University of Florence)
on our website, as the dates may change after the publication of this handbook:
http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/italian/program_options/florence/acadcalendar
Please keep in mind that dates may change even after your arrival in Italy.
You must remain in Italy until classes are over and you have taken your final exams. If you choose to
leave before the established date for the end of the program you may forfeit credit for the entire
semester.
GRADE EQUIVALENCY
Grades received at Italian universities will be evaluated by the director of the School in Italy and
converted to U.S. grades. The following is an approximate conversion table. This may be modified
according to the course taken and the work required. The conversion takes into account the
difficulties inherent in studying within a different university system. Due to the late reporting of
grades by the individual universities, students should understand that they will not receive their
grades until a few months after the end of the semester.
Italy
30-30+
U.S.
A
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28 - 29
27
26
24 - 25
22 - 23
20 – 21
19
18
0 – 17
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD
F
LOCAL INFORMATION
Emergencies
Students will receive a card with numeri utili during the on-site orientation, which they should carry on
their person at all times. In addition, students should memorize the following emergency numbers:
112
113
115
118
Carabinieri
Police
Fire Department
Medical Emergency
U.S. Consulate in Florence
Lungarno Vespucci, 38
50123 Firenze
Tel. 055 266 951
http://florence.usconsulate.gov/
TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATIONS
If you have not pre-arranged housing, you should make hotel/hostel reservations for the first week.
Because August and September are still peak tourist periods in Italy, it is VERY DIFFICULT to find
rooms in reasonably-priced pensioni and hotels upon arrival. Therefore, please reserve a room in
advance before you leave for Italy. Below is a list of hotels that students have used in the past.
Ostello Santa Monaca
Independent Youth Hostel
Via Santa Monaca, 6
50124 Florence
Tel: 055 239 6704, 055 268 338
http://www.ostello.it/
Hotel Loggiato dei Serviti ***
Piazza Santissima Annunziata, 3
50100 Florence
Tel. 055 289 592
http://www.loggiatodeiservitihotel.it/
Hotel Firenze
Piazza Donati, 4
50122 Florence
Tel. 055 214 203, 055 268 301
http://www.hotelfirenze-fi.it/
Hotel Le Due Fontane ***
Piazza Santissima Annunziata, 14
50122 Florence
Tel. 055 210 185
http://www.leduefontane.it/
If for some unforeseeable reason you are not able to make a reservation before you depart, the Hotel
Information Service on the ground floor (Galleria di Testa) of the Florence Santa Maria Novella train
station, open 8:00-7:30pm - tel. 055.238.1885 is very helpful in finding accommodations for a
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reasonable service charge. Please keep in mind that single rooms are hard to come by, and therefore
we recommend that you travel with someone with whom you may wish to share a room.
Hospitals and Medical Services
Ospedale Santa Maria Nuova
Pronto soccorso
(The only emergency service in the center of Florence)
Piazza Santa Maria Nuova, 1
Tel. 055 27581
Ospedale Generale di Careggi
Pronto soccorso
Viale Pieraccini, 17
Tel. 055 427 7111
24 hour Medical Service in English
Via Roma, 4
Tel. 055 475 411
Email: medserv@tin.it
Here you can find a list of English speaking medical professionals in Florence:
http://italy.usembassy.gov/acs/professionals/doctors/doctors-florence.html
Buses
The public bus system in Florence is called A.T.A.F.; it is convenient and efficient. You may find it
crowded at rush hour. Service begins at 6:00am and continues uninterrupted until midnight. The
main A.T.A.F. office, ATAF Point, is located inside the Santa Maria Novella train station at the
station’s ticket office (Monday to Saturday from 6:45am to 8:00pm; closed Sundays). There you can
find maps, specific routes of buses, and purchase tickets. You can also visit the website:
http://www.ataf.net/ for information. Tickets should be purchased in advance and can be obtained
at most bar-tabacchi, at some newsstands, and automatic ticket machines. Bus drivers sell tickets for a
fee of €2 (pay in exact change), but sometimes do not have any available. Be sure to carry extra
tickets with you because you may find it difficult to purchase one after 19:30. Tickets must be
validated upon boarding at one of the two validators located in the front and back of the bus. Bus
passengers en route are periodically checked by A.T.A.F. controllori, and if you are traveling without
a ticket, or without having punched your ticket, you will be subject to a fine of up to €240.
There are several types of tickets available which reduce the normal fare:
1) A ticket valid for riding any bus in the city within a 90 minute period can be purchased for €1.20.
A 24-hour ticket costs €5
2) The 2x90 ticket is a ticket with 2 rides at 90 minutes each for €2.40.
3) The 4x90 ticket is a ticket with 4 rides at 90 minutes each for €4.70.
4) Monthly bus passes (€35) are available at the A.T.A.F. Point.
5) Student monthly bus passes (€23) are available to students under 26 who are enrolled at the
University of Florence. Instructions on how to obtain one are available at the Sede.
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6) The Carta Agile is an electronic card with a memory of 10 (€10) 21 (€20) or 35 (€30) 90 minute
tickets. It is convenient if you use the bus, but not every day. It expires 12 months after the first
validation.
The above rates are subject to change.
Tourist Information Offices
Azienda Promozione Turistica (A.P.T.)
Tel. 055 233 20, Fax 055 234 6286
mailto: apt@firenzeturismo.it
http://www.firenzeturismo.it/
Tel. 055 288496
Mon-Sat 9:00-19:30;
Sun 9:00-14:00
Ufficio Informazioni Turistiche- Via Cavour,
1/r
Tel. 055 290 832
Mon-Fri 9:00-18:00;
Sat 9:00-14:00
Sun closed
Infopoint Aeroporto– Aeroporto Vespucci
Via del Termine, 1
Tel. 055 315 874
Mon-Sat 9:00-19:00;
Sun 9:00-14:00
Infopoint Stazione– Piazza Stazione, 5
Tel. 055212245
Mon-Sat 9:00-19:00;
Sun 9:00-14:00
Informagiovani – Punto Giovani
Vicolo Santa Maria Maggiore, 1
Tel. 055 218 310
http://portalegiovani.comune.fi.it/
Email: infogiov@comune.fi.it
Infopoint Bigallo – Duomo –Piazza S.
Giovanni, 1
Università Degli Studi di Firenze
Scuola di Studi Umanistici e della
Formazione
Piazza Brunelleschi, 4 (main building)
 Humanities Library (Biblioteca
umanistica)
http://www.sba.unifi.it/CMpro-l-s12.html
Scuola di Scienze Politiche“Cesare
Alfieri”
Via Delle Pandette, 21
 Social Sciences Library (Biblioteca delle
Scienze Sociali)
http://www.sba.unifi.it/CMpro-l-s11.html
Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze
Via Ricasoli, 66
http://www.accademia.firenze.it/it/
Mensa Universitaria (Open Sept - July)
Santa Apollonia
Via Santa Reparata, 12
Caponnetto (Polo Scienze Sociali)
Via Miele, 2
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Ask the School in Italy staff for further information and hours.
Libraries
The small library at the Sede is open during regular hours (see inside front cover). When checking out
books (2500 volumes plus videos/DVDs) it is necessary to register the book into the computerized
catalogue system, which will be done by the administrative assistant. You can take out a maximum
of five books for two weeks. You will also want to take advantage of Florence's many public libraries
as well as the outstanding libraries at the University of Florence.
Biblioteca delle Oblate
Via Oriuolo, 26
Tel. 055 2616512
Hours: Mon-Wed-Thur 8:30-18:30
Tues-Fri 8:30-22:15
Saturday 8:30-13:30
http://www.biblioteche.comune.fi.it/biblioteca_delle_oblate/
Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale
(only for books that cannot be found elsewhere—requires introduction letter)
Piazza Cavalleggeri, 1
Tel. 055 24 919 280/055 249 191
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:15-19:00
Saturday 8:15-13:30
http://www.bncf.firenze.sbn.it/
Biblioteca Marucelliana
Via Cavour, 43-45
Tel. 055 210 602 /055 216 243
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30-19:00
Saturday 9:30-13:45
http://www.maru.firenze.sbn.it/
Gabinetto Scientifico Letterario G.P. Vieusseux
Piazza Strozzi, 1
Tel. 055 288 342
Reading rooms open to the public
Hours: Mon-Wed-Fri 9:00-13:30
Tues-Thur 9:00-18:00
Saturday closed
http://www.vieusseux.it/biblioteca.html
There are many other smaller libraries in the center of the city. Information on libraries in general is
available at the Sede. A letter of introduction from the Sede is usually requested.
Specialized Libraries
Harvard University - Berenson Library
Center for Renaissance Studies
Villa I Tatti
Via di Vincigliata, 26
Fiesole
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Tel. 055 603 251
http://itatti.harvard.edu/berenson-library
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-18:00
(A letter of introduction is required.)
Istituto Nazionale di Studi sul Rinascimento (Art and History)
Piazza Strozzi, 0
Tel. 055 287 728
http://www.insr.it/
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-17:15
Istituto Olandese Universitario di Storia dell’Arte
Viale Torricelli, 5
Tel. 055 221 612
http://www.iris-firenze.org/index.php?page=iuo
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-13:00, 14:00-18:00
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APPENDIX A: SAMPLE AFFIDAVIT OF SUPPORT
I, the undersigned, _______________________, as mother/father of _____________________,
will take full responsibility for my son/daughter’s entire stay in Italy, as well as responsibility to cover
any unforeseen expenses he/she may incur while studying in Italy from______________ to
_____________________________.
As proof of my ability to do so, I attach a copy of a bank letter.
Date______________________________________________
___________________________________________________
(Signature)
Io sottoscritto/a__________________________________, assumo piena responsabilità per il
mantenimento di mio figlio/mia figlia, _____________________________, per il periodo del suo
soggiorno in Italia.
__________________________________________________
(firma)
Notary Public Seal and Signature
[N.B. The above statement is essential in obtaining a student visa if you are applying on
your own rather than through International Programs and Off-Campus Study (See section:
Student Visas) and for EU citizens.]
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APPENDIX B: SAMPLE AFFIDAVIT OF INSURANCE
AFFIDAVIT OF INSURANCE
(must be completed by student)
I, _____________________________________________________________________
Born in________________________________ on______________________________
BEING FIRST DULY SWORN ON OATH, DEPOSE AND SAY:
That within 8 (eight) days of my arrival in Italy I will report to the local Police Headquarters
(“Questura”) for the issuance of my Permit of Stay (“Permesso di Soggiorno), as required by the
Italian Law of all foreigners residing in Italy for an extended period of time.
That prior to appearing at the “Questura” I will have purchased an Italian insurance policy, such as
that issued by I.N.A Assitalia or comparable insurance carrier, conforming to Italian standards.
That the above mentioned insurance coverage will be effective for my entire stay in Italy and that I
will be responsible for any other expense of this nature that I may incur in Italy.
__________________________
Signature of the Notary Public
__________________________
Signature of the Applicant
Seal of the Notary Public
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APPENDIX C: SAMPLE BANK LETTER
To whom it may concern:
We hereby certify that Mr./Ms. ______________________________________________
resident of _______________________________________________________________
has been a client of this institution since _____________________________________.
Mr./Ms. _________________________ has sufficient funds in his/her account to support his/her
son/daughter, _____________________________, during this period that s/he will be studying in
Florence, Italy.
_____________________________________________________________________
(Signature)
A chi di ragione:
Si certifica che il/la signor/a _______________________________________________,
residente a _____________________________________________________________,
è cliente di questa banca dal _______________________________________________.
Il/la signor/a __________________________________ ha in questa banca i fondi necessari per il
mantenimento del/della figlio/a, _______________________________, durante il periodo che
questi/a trascorrerà a Firenze, Italia.
_______________________________________________________________________
(firma)
[N.B. The above statement is essential in obtaining a student visa if you are applying on
your own rather than through International Programs and Off-Campus Study (See section:
Student Visas) and for EU citizens.]
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