sb fall 2014
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Stony Brook University
F U A F l o r e n c e U n i v e r s i t y o f t h e A r t s
PATHSPATHSF l o r e n c e I t a l y , F a l l 2 0 1 4
PATHSPATHS
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
This semester’s project focuses on the path of each student through the study abroad experience at FUA. Each student has expressed
something about their experience in Florence through the path chosen to represent their connection to Florence and FUA.
Each path is unique, just as each student is a distinctive individual. However, despite the fact that everyone has had their own personal
passage through Florence, their path has brought them all to the same destination, that is, to becoming a global citizen.
I would like to thank all of the students from the Stony Brook program for their contribution to this project and for all that their experience
has brought to FUA. Although the Fall 2014 session has come to a close, you are all forever part of the FUA community, and I hope that
your path through life brings you back to us one day. I wish you all the best for a bright and fruitful future! Grazie e in bocca al lupo!
M e l i s s a R o s s i
SBU Program Resident Director
Introduction
S t o n y B r o o k U n i v e r s i t y P r o g r a m
F a l l 2 0 1 4
STUDENT PROFILESSTUDENT PROFILES
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Teal Marie AlbertraniMajor: Communications
Home University: SUNY Albany
My path through Florence
Borgo Pinti to Corso dei Tintori. I realized
this was my path when I had my first week
of classes. I take this class mostly every
day, whether it is going to class, going to
get some tasty gelato, buying stamps at
a convenient store on Corso dei Tintori,
sitting at Piazza Santa Croce, or going to
Mass at the beautiful Church. During this
short nine minute walk I pass several cafes,
lunch spots, and the massive Santa Croce,
so the walk always seems to go quickly.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
When I had my first week of classes. It finally
hit me that I am officially studying abroad and
taking part in an incredible experience. When
my first week of classes was over, I was able
to take in all the information about my week
and realize what my classes would be like.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Special Events Management, with Prof.
Daniele Onori. When I enrolled for this class
I was told that it is a graduate level class
and that it is difficult. However, my professor
is very intelligent and enjoys teaching this
class. I get to experience planning a themed
dinner for Ganzo in this class, and become
very hands on with event planning. This
gives me a taste of event management in
the real world.
My favorite Italian word is
“Arrivederci”. It means good-bye, good day,
and farewell. I like this word simply because
of how it sounds. It is catchy and fun to say
in my opinion! It is also the very first Italian
word I learned when I was a little girl.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Brad AmannMajor: Finance
Home University: University of Buffalo
My path through Florence
Via dei Macci to Apicius. I realized this was
my path when I could barely stay on one
side of road for more than a minute. Every
time I travel down this road there is barely
any space to move. This includes road and
sidewalk. It is such a heavily trafficked route
that I always felt like I was in a lively part of
town. On top of that I pass by some very
Florentine landmarks like Piazza delle Belle
Arti and Piazza della Santissima Annunziata.
Also when I cross over Via dei Servi I get a
stunning view of the Duomo.
My most memorable moment at FUA
came during my first photography project
of the semester. The day before our
assignment was due in class, I went out and
photographed in the plaza behind my house.
I was fairly confused on the specifics of the
project so I did not feel too confident in my
pictures when I presented the following
day. Not all of my photos were liked by my
instructor, but there was one photo of an old
man smoking a cigar that he raved about.
The way he went on describing the details of
the picture made me feel like I was making
strides as a photographer.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Ciao ragazzi”. Even though it is very simple
and basic, I use it just about everywhere I go.
I like it because it reminds me of back home
when I am leaving my deli saying cya later guys.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Nadine ArmaganianMajor: Linguistics and English double major
Home University: SUNY Albany
My path through Florence
Borgo Pinti to my favorite farmers market,
Sant Ambrogio, near Santa Croce and right
around the corner from Ganzo.
I realized this was my path when I found
myself preferring to get my groceries here
than at Conad or something. I go a few
times a week and just see what fresh fruits
and vegetables the vendors have that day.
Also, the building at the market with cheese
and bread vendors has amazing food too.
I became a Florentine when
I finally was able to get from one place to
another without using a map or getting lost.
I felt like a part of the community when I was
first able to leave my apartment and know
exactly how to get to where I needed to go.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Prof. Carlotta Dini, who teaches my Tuscan
wine course. She knows a lot about wine and
gives the class a lot of information about how
to taste and appreciate Tuscan wines.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Prego” - so many meanings and ways to use it!
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Nicole CrisalliMajor: Childhood Inclusive Education
Home University: SUNY Fredonia
My path through Florence
Borgo Pinti to DIVA, to Piazza deila Signoria,
to Pinos Sandwiches, to Piazza del Duomo,
to the Sant’Ambrogio Market; to Piazza San
Lorenzo.I realized this was my path when I
was looking around me one day and realized
that I knew exactly where I was going and
how to get to my destination. I finally didn’t
need a map or GPS to tell me where I was
going because I go to these places every
day. It’s just a constant circle of me going to
one place to the next.
I became a Florentine when
I was coming home from my first weekend
away from traveling. We were getting off the
bus at Santa Maria Novella after a seven hour
bus ride and thought to myself, “It feels so
good to finally be home”. It never felt so good
to be back in Florence, where I lived, go to
school, walk the streets without using a huge
map. It made me realize that I finally felt at
home and that I was a part of the community.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
When we were going over hand gestures
in my Cultural Perspectives class because
Prof. Volpe was trying to teach us all the
different hand gestures that are used in Italy
and everyone is butchering them and just
laughing and joking around them.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list :
Rubbing the boar’s nose, just sitting on
the steps of the Duomo and taking it all in,
wandering around the city for hours, finding
cute, little cafes that aren’t touristy, and
finding a piazza to sit in and relax.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Lindsey BowenMajor: Psychology
Home University: SUNY Cortland
My path through Florence
Borgo Pinti as I run through the city for exercise
and enjoyment. I realized this was my path
when two weeks after my arrival in Florence
and after several unsuccessful attempts
at running in the city, I realized I could not
navigate traffic, bikes, and pedestrians safely.
On a walk where I purposefully got myself
lost, I discovered this path and decided that
would be perfect for a safe and efficient run,
where I could let off stress.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
Walking into one of my classes on a casual
Tuesday and thinking “this is exactly where
I’m meant to be in life right now”.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
Visit the top of Piazzale Michaelangelo
Visit the Uffizi Gallery, the Galleria
dell’Accademia, and the Palazzo Pitti; Get
lost Oltrano and find my way back; Taking
new routes home every day and discovering
new things each time; Visit surrounding
towns and areas of the Tuscan countryside
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Firenze, ti amo”.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Milly ElgotMajor: Environmental Studies, European Studies Minor
Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
Via Della Vigna Nuova to Florence Cathedral,
Piazza del Duomo. I realized this was my
path when I began taking this path almost
every day to either get to class or meet up
with friends. Also, Piazza della Repubblica
is on the way, and that is my favorite Piazza.
It’s beautiful and there are different people
playing music there every night; it just has
so much life in it.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
During my Florence Sketchbook class; each
class we go to a different Florence location
and sketch, but the most memorable time
was when we went to Piazza Santa Croce.
It was most memorable, because we sat
down on the steps of the Basilica Santa
Croce and sketched as a musician in the
Piazza was playing music. Everything about
it - the music, the view - made me feel like I
was in a movie.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
My Intermediate Italian class taught by Prof.
Marta Russo. This class was my favorite,
because Marta is the absolute best teacher.
She’s incredibly helpful and patient, and she
is the sweetest. She genuinely wants us to
learn Italian and be able to go out and use
it every day.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“grazie mille”, because mille sounds like my
name, and it’s funny to hear “Grazie mille, Milly”
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Nicholas FazioMajor: Economics
Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
Via Montanelli to via De Macci. This is where
the journey ends as I arrive at my friend’s
apartment.
I realized this was my path when at the end
of week one here in Florence, I had made
the walk down this path more than two
times every day. I became close friends with
the people who live there and I knew this
was my path because I realized I made my
friends for the semester and this is where I
was going to be hanging out very frequently.
I became a Florentine when
My father visited me from home. He came
here to visit for a week, and this was when
I realized I had really learned the city and
I was proud to walk my dad around and
show him everything I had learned about the
place. Walking him around giving my best
version of a tour of the city, I knew I felt at
home here and I was happy to be living here
for the next few months.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Global Economy taught by Andrea Giuntini.
I have never had a teacher in my three
years of college who has taught with such
enthusiasm. The topics discussed in the
class are very interesting, and Andrea is
very interested in hearing our opinions on
everything. He loves when we disagree with
an opinion and have a debate in class, and
that is something I really appreciate in a
class and from a teacher.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Grazie mille”. I like to be able to express the
extent to which I am pleased with a product or
service and this is the perfect phrase for that.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Lauren FillerMajor: Political Science
Home University: Binghamton University
My path through Florence
Apicius to Via dell’Alloro, with a stop at the
Mercato Centrale.
I realized this was my path when I realized
how lucky I am to be able to take what I’m
learning in my food class and then use that
knowledge to buy food at a fresh market.
I love to pick up fish, fresh pasta, and
different seasonal vegetables. Even though
this path is through a touristy area when I
walk into the central market I feel like I am a
part of the local culture.
I became a Florentine when
I began to volunteer at the Orti Dipinti (the
community garden) through the community
outreach program, I am able to connect with
local Florentines and feel like I am a part of
their community rather than an observer.
When we all work together, I don’t feel
like I’m a foreigner in someone else’s city-
rather we are all working together towards
a common goal.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Florence Sketchbook. Each day we learn a
little bit about art history and some drawing
techniques, then leave FUA to spend
most of the class at different locations
around the city drawing. While I’ve taking
art classes before, I’ve never had such a
unique opportunity like this to be able to
see and draw first hand famous buildings,
sculptures, etc.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list :
Meeting local Florentines, climbing to the
top of the Duomo, going to a soccer game,
traveling around Tuscany.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Christopher GarciaMajor: Business Economics
Home University: SUNY Cortland
My path through Florence
Via Dell’Angolo to Via Giuseppe Verdi to
Pino’s, a great local sandwich/deli spot.
I realized this was my path when it became a
weekly routine that I do with my housemates
every Friday that we are here in Firenze. I
went there for the first time with a friend and
It was love at first bite. We had such a great
Friday the first time we got Pino’s so we
decided to make it part of our Friday routine
whenever we weren’t traveling. My first time
there I was so overwhelmed by how many
sandwich choices there were and I was very
pleased with the first one I chose and from
then on this have been my path.
I became a Florentine when
My parents came to visit. It was such an
indescribable feeling of accomplishment
and belonging to be able to guide my family
around Firenze without hesitation. When
they wanted to go to a certain shop, I knew
where it was, took them to all the typical
tourist spots, but when I took them to my
favorite local spots away from the tourist
was the best part.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
The first day of classes when I realized
everything I had worked towards and put
effort into came true. After a long summer
with two classes and all the paperwork and
effort I put in just to be able to come here
had paid off was my favorite moment here
at FUA.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Alessandro Giudice, I don’t have a favorite
class in all honesty but he teaches two of the
four classes I am in and I like his injection of
real world experience in economics into the
class room. Back in the states, I feel professors
only worry about teaching by the book so it’s a
nice change with Professor Giudice.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Alyssa Gatto Major: Psychology
Home University: Binghamton University
My path through Florence
Via Monte alle Croci to the train station, then
the tram all the way to the Aldo Moro stop.
Here my Italian family greets me and drives
me to their home.
I realized this was my path when I went to
meet my family. This path takes me home,
to the Italian family who has taken me in as
one of my own. I love going there because
it lets me get out of the city and experience
the public transportation system in Florence.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Marta Russo is (hands down) the best
teacher I’ve ever had. Not only is she patient
and kind, but she is so knowledgeable
about the English language, which is
very challenging. She is able to help me
understand the intricacies of the Italian
language, while managing to help me adjust
to the cultural differences. I don’t think I
would be comfortable using my language
skills if it wasn’t for the confidence Prof.
Russo has given me. She is a wonderful
teacher and all around person.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Non lo so, ma…” I never know what is
going on when I attempt to speak Italian
here, so I love to say I don’t know, but then
give it a shot anyway.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Megan GrahamMajor: International Relations, Minor: Psychology
Home University: SUNY Cortland
My path through Florence
Past Fort Belvedere and along the city walls.
I walked this path on my way to dinner with
my Italian Family Club family and it was the
most beautiful walk I’ve taken so far.
I realized this was my path when I looked
out into the Tuscan Hills and saw the sun
setting over them. I felt like I was in one of
the most beautiful places in the world and
like I was truly in the middle of Europe, I
really enjoyed the views and the walk.
I became a Florentine when
I was able to go to a super market for the
first time alone and only communicate in
Italian, it may seem small but it made me
feel more like an Italian and less of a tourist.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
Attending the vegetarian five-course
dinner at ganzo; this was one of my most
memorable nights because I share great
food with new friends I have met here in
Florence. It was great to get dressed up and
all bond over some amazing dishes, I look
forward to going back to another themed
dinner.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Piacere” because this trip has been full
of new introductions. It feels applicable
because it really has been nice to meet
people from such a different culture and
place and I am grateful to be able to do so.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Rachel HonisMajor: Sociology and Communication
Home University: SUNY Geneseo
My path through Florence
Borgo Pinti to Piazzale Michelangelo.
I realized this was my path when I repeated
it multiple times. It takes me about twenty
minutes to walk from my apartment to the
Piazzale, and the hill can be difficult, but
the view at the top is well worth the walk.
At home, there isn’t a place that offers the
same breath-taking view as the Piazzale. My
favorite time to go is at sunset because the
scenery is incomparable with the Duomo
and the Ponte Vecchio, as well as the
Tuscan hills. Even though I have been there
many times, the view still doesn’t seem
real. I want to take advantage of the sight
of the beautiful city I get to call home for
four months.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
The FUA trip to the northern part of Italy
in Modena on a class field trip. We visited
a Parmesan cheese factory, a balsamic
vinegar factory and a parma ham factory. At
each place, we learned about the process
of each staple in Italian cuisine. We also
had a taste testing of each product, and I
have never tasted food so fresh. It was an
experience I will never forget.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
The Cultural Perspectives class. This class
is very helpful as I try and adjust to this
foreign culture. Before coming here, the
only thing I knew about Italy was based off
of stereotypes. This class helps explain why
things are the way they are. We cover a wide
range of topics and I have learned things
about this country that I wouldn’t have
otherwise. Furthermore, we have city walks
every week, which helps me understand the
history of Florence, and is a great hands on
experience.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Va bene”, which translates to very good.
One of my professors interchanges
between English and Italian sometimes, and
whenever she is changing topics, she uses
this phrase. Since she says it so often, I
find myself saying it to my friends outside of
class. I hope to make it a habit and continue
to use it even after I’ve left Italy.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Pengzhan JingMajor: Economics
Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
Borgo Pinti to Via dell’ Oriuolo. I realized this
was my path when I went to school every
day and I brought food to market. When I am
hanging out in Florence, I see many tourists.
I really want to say that I a not a tourist and I
am living here. I am a part of Florence.
I became a Florentine when
I went to school every day and I brought
food from the market.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Cultural Perspectives, with Prof. Jessica
Volpe. She is really nice and she always
smiles at me.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
Learning to cook Italian food.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Oksana KachmarchykMajor: Business Major Management Specialization, Writing Minor, International Studies Minor
Home University: Stony Brook University
My Path through Florence
Borgo Pinti to Apicus I realized this was my
path when I understood that on the way to
Apicius, where my classroom is located, I
get to see all of Florence. There are all the
little café’s and trattorias. I pass a few hair
salons where women are getting their hair
done. I pass a hospital, a church, and even a
McDonald’s. There is a building that is covered
in dollar bills to my left. And a few tourists
that I occasionally bump into. Everyday the
road is alive with a brand new story.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Massimo Coppetti, a Wine instructor. His
passion and love for wine is so vivid. His
sip vs. shot theory has really stuck with
me. He has taught us to sip the wine from
our glass while we appreciate life as it is.
By sipping we are not rushing through life
but living more in the moment each and
everyday. Taking a shot we speed things
up without noticing what is right in front of
us. Prof. Coppetti asked us when do people
drink wine: for dinner, for relaxation, for
celebrations. He has asked us why can’t
everyday be a celebration?
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
Buying jewelry from Italy, going on a wine
tasting tour, taking beautiful Tuscany
photos, eating some gelato, having gnocchi
for the first time, eating lots of cheese, and
tasting 100 year-old balsamic vinegar.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
Buon giorno which means good morning.
Every morning I will pass an Italian and they
will say Buon giorno and automatically I’d
have a smile on my face for the rest of the day.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Gary LambMajor: Business Major
Home University: SUNY Albany
My path through Florence
Via de Macci to the Duomo. I realized this
was my path when I would take frequent
walks to the Duomo. The Duomo is by far
my favorite landmark here in Florence. It
blows my mind that something as big as the
Duomo was made so long ago. There were
no machines to get the materials for the
building so high in the air, just all manpower,
and that amazes me.
I became a Florentine when
I realized that someone asked me for
directions. I realized after it happened that
I had been doing the same thing, asking for
directions approximately two weeks before
that. It felt good to know that I knew my
way around and that I must not have looked
completely like a tourist.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
The Italian American experience with Prof.
Umberto Gori. I like this class because I feel
as it is directed towards students just like
me. It tells us how Italians and Americans
mixed in the past, and the differences
between the two cultures. It is interesting
to see how different Italian-Americans are,
than Italians.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Salve” because I can say it at any part of
the day. I just like the simplicity of the word,
and that it is has more importance than you
would think.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Steven MartimucciMajor: Geology
Home University: SUNY Cortland
My path through Florence
Santa Croce to Via Guelfa and Fedora.
I realized this was my path when I make this
trip every morning as a part of my every day
routine. I go to class and get lunch at fedora
afterwords. It feels weird on days that I don’t
do this because I’m so used to it.
I became a Florentine when
I started being able to hold full conversations
with Italian locals and be successful. For
example, I went to the barber and had a full
one on one conversation in nothing but Italian.
I understood every word and replied correctly.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list :
Order food correctly, hold conversations
in Italian correctly, give directions in Italian
correctly, be mistaken for a local.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Allora” It’s such a common word and can
make a huge difference when used in a
conversation.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Joslyn MatthewsMajor: Journalism
Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
Borgo de Noche to Piazza Santa Croce.
From there I make my way to school.
I realized this was my path when I decided
that walking past the Duomo and Piazza
della Signoria was too much of a hassle.
The tourists and vendors clog what would
otherwise be a nice scenic walk to school.
So I now frequent a more simple way to
make my way around Florence.
I became a Florentine when
I realized that I had a favorite café and am
now a regular customer there with a regular
order.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
When I got two pieces published in the
schools newsletter Blending. The newsletter
provides a good opportunity to further my
journalistic ability while abroad.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Carlotta Forasassi who teaches beginning
piano. I was completely new to playing any
kind of instrument but with her help I quickly
learned the basics of how to play piano.
She had patience with me despite how bad
I was at everything.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Italo OliveiraMajor: Communication
Home University: SUNY Buffalo
My path through Florence
Borgo San Frediano to SQUOLA/Piazza del
Duomo.
I realized this was my path when I noticed
that going from my side of the bridge
towards the Duomo you are able to see a lot
of what Italy has to offer for someone who is
new to this place. This path shows the local
side of Florence (Borgo San Frediano) all the
way to the most touristy area (Duomo) in a
matter of 15 minutes.
I became a Florentine when
I went to the Fiorentina Soccer Game. The
atmosphere, the people singing, chanting,
and pushing the team towards victory made
me feel like I was part of something bigger
than myself. I will never forget that day and
the feeling I had during that whole match.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
When my Italian Soccer Experience class
went to the Italian Soccer Museum; we got
to meet one of the legendary Italian soccer
trainers and we got to see so much history.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Ah che bello!” “Bravo!”
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Ariel PhillipsMajor: Psychology
Home University: SUNY Plattsburgh
My path through Florence
I run towards the river from Via Verdi, across
the Ponte alle Grazie Bridge and towards
Viale dell’Albereta until it turns into grass
and I can’t go any further.
I realized this was my path when I found
myself not even thinking, and running this
way. Also, it’s one part of Florence that I
have seen with fallen leaves, and it makes
me feel like I’m home in autumn.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
The first time I went into a business and
ordered a smoothie in Italian. Granted the
names are in English, I was still so proud
and excited that I used what I had learned
in Italian class.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Everything Chocolate: From Therapy to
Pleasure, taught by Stefania Borgioli. Not
only was this class delicious and super
fun, but also it was extremely interesting!
Prof. Borgioli really got me interested in
the process of making chocolate, from the
cacao plantations, to the factories. So much
so that I want to further my knowledge and
experience, and look into other programs or
even jobs that might offer that.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is Word
Ariellina (little Ariel) Phrase: “La solitudine è
per lo spirito ciò che il cibo è per il corpo”
(“Loneliness is for the spirit what food is for
the body”).
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Jenna PoplauskyMajor: Mechanical Engineering
Home University: Duke University
My path through Florence
Via Verdi to the Duomo. I realized this was
my path because I walk that route every day.
The Duomo is the center of the city. It is a
great meeting point and there is so much
to do in the area. A day will never go by
when you don’t venture pass the Duomo,
and every time it is still just as breathtaking
as it was the first time.
I became a Florentine when
I figured out how to send mail at the post
office, even though none of the attendants
spoke English and my Italian was still pretty
shaky. I had no idea which booth to go to,
or how to say stamp in Italian, but I was able
to figure it out.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
Getting to play soccer with Italian
professional soccer players in the Soccer
Experience class. Soccer has always
been a passion of mine, and I could have
never imagined having the opportunity to
learn from some of the best players in the
country. It was also a very unique way to
learn about Italian culture and be integrated
into the community.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Coach Fabrizio Polloni, my soccer professor.
Coach Polloni is one of the most intelligent
soccer coaches I know. He knows so much
about the game and has dedicated his
whole life to playing and coaching. I can
easily say that his class has been the best
class I have ever taken.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Tania RahmanMajor: English
Home University: Binghamton University
My path through Florence
The opposite way from the Duomo, down
Borgo Pinti to the Community Garden, where
I enjoy sitting and writing in my journal.
I realized this was my path when I decided
to take a stroll one Wednesday afternoon
when I was class-free. I was determined to
get lost in Florence, but outside of the city
center, which is why I walked away from the
Duomo down my block. I was walking down
random, unfamiliar streets, discovering new
shops, cafes, and stores, until I wound
up back onto Borgo Pinti somehow. This
path is great because it leads to the park,
includes bike paths, and has far less people
than the main area.
I became a Florentine when
I understood that the feeling that had settled
itself upon me was that of comfort. It took
far less time than I anticipated adjusting to
my new home; in fact, I had expected to feel
a low level of homesickness all the way to
the end of this semester. Instead, I found
myself casually pointing out directions to
passersby who asked me for the location
of a certain Piazza or a recommendation for
lunch.
The best class/instructor at FUA was
International Marketing with Elena Radicchi.
As an English major, I don’t often take
classes that veer off from the paths of famous
literature, and I always enjoy learning things
that challenge my perspective on various
fields. Prof. Radicchi does a great job
engaging the class’ interest in the reading
material, as well as coming up with activities
that allow us to interact with one another
and gain a real feel for marketing. She also
does well in making sure we are on top of
our work by giving us assignments that are
both relevant to our readings and interesting
to do.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
My goal for the semester was to do as many
activities that locals engage in as possible,
although some of the things coincide with
what tourists like to do. So far I have visited
multiple secret bakeries throughout the
night, as well as visits to cafes and parks
outside of the city center.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Mallory RothsteinMajor: Psychology
Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
Via Maggio to sQuola in Via dell’Oriulo. I
realized this was my path when I had been
so used to taking that path so many times
that it became automatic for me to use that
path as a way to cross over the river and
go wherever I needed to go even if it wasn’t
to sQuola. This path has street art with my
favorite one on it and I can name a ton of
restaurants/places to go on this path, which
for many other paths, I can’t do.
I became a Florentine when
I was coming back from the Amalfi Coast
and all I wanted was to fall asleep in my
bed. I actually looked forward to being in my
apartment again and knew exactly how to
get home from the train station. I also have
felt like a Florentine when Italians ask me for
directions because I feel like it means they
think I’m from around here!
My most memorable moment at FUA was
When I got to do a wine tasting for the first
time in my Exploration of Wine Culture in
Italy class. It took us the first time an hour
to analyze one glass of wine! I never knew
how much goes into a wine analysis and all
the components that one can analyze from
a glass of wine. I will never forget that class
because everyone in the class was having
so much fun despite it taking forever and I
think I learned the most about wine during
that class.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
To go to a Fiorentina soccer game, go to a
secret bakery, be able to order something all
in Italian, and visit all the museums at least
once with my museum pass.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Benjamin SchantzMajor: Clinical Lab Science
Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence
Borgo San Frediano to Piazza Santo Spirito.
I realized this was my path when my
roommates and I went there one night on a
whim. We were still new to the city, and we
didn’t really know the better places to go
as far as night life goes. But, we had heard
about Santo Spirito and decided to go there
and check it out. When we got there, I was
immediately enamored. The people were
mostly speaking Italian with a few speaking
English, but that was not even my favorite
part. What I loved most about it was that
the atmosphere, although can seem crazy,
is actually very calm.
I became a Florentine when
I went to a Fiorentina soccer game. Calcio,
as like anywhere else, is a game where the
fans are passionate. They yell at each other
and say some very choice words. It was
such a great experience, one that everyone
must try, even if they are not a soccer fan.
I felt like a Florentine because my friends
and I started yelling at the other team and
the other team’s fans.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
Gelato, The Duomo, The David, The Uffizi
Gallery, going to a secret bakery.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Dove state andando?”
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Fiona TarzyMajor: Philosophy, Politics, and Law
Home University: SUNY Binghamton
My path through Florence
Borgo Pinti to sQuola in Via dell’ Oriuolo.
I realized this was my path when I noticed
how unique the street is. At home, I live on
a completely residential block. In Florence,
Borgo Pinti is swamped with artistry,
clothing stores, restaurants, gardens,
pharmacies, and wine stores. Unlike a
normal commercial area, the stores are only
open on occasion. This meant that every
time I walked down the seemingly familiar
block I found new stores and shop owners.
This block has all the bustle with none of the
hustle. The plethora of stores do not stop
the block from being a one way dead end.
Borgo Pinti has all the charm of a small,
relatively quite block, with all the excitement
of a street with a lot of life and things to do.
I became a Florentine when I was
Able to navigate my way home without using
the Duomo as my starting point. I had just
come back from the local Conad to do my
weekly grocery shopping. An Italian stopped
me to ask for directions. I can not speak
Italian or get around. They wanted to know
where Conad was, which I was able to help
them with! I pointed in the right direction,
responded “Prego” to their “Grazie” and
used my adrenaline to find my way home.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
On a sunny fall afternoon, my friends and
I gathered in the court yard behind school
after class. The relaxed quite environment
in the school allowed us to read for class,
make travel plans, and enjoy the Florentine
beauty.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Come si dice”. This is the most useful
phrase I have learned. Locals understand
not every American can speak Italian, but
they appreciate the effort. When I use this
at the market or in the streets Italians are
warmer and more willing to help.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Danielle TinghitellaMajor: Psychology
Home University: SUNY Geneseo
My path through Florence
Via Maggio to Piazzale di Porta Romana and
the park.I realized this was my path when
my friends and I discovered the park when
we were walking around the city and we
spent the rest of the day sitting in the park
relaxing. There were a lot of Italians here
sitting on the benches or watching their
dogs as they ran around in the park. It is a
nice place to take a break from the chaos of
the city and all of the tourists.
I became a Florentine when
I went food shopping and found all of the
items I needed even though it was difficult
with the language difference. When the
worker in the grocery store initially spoke to
me in Italian, not automatically recognizing
that I was American like so many other
Italians do, it made me feel like I was
beginning to integrate with the culture.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
I have climbed to the top of the Piazzale
Michelangelo, eaten tons of gelato, gotten
Gusta Pizza, sat in a piazza and spoke to
Italians students, visited the Boboli Gardens
and the Palazzo Pitti and learned some Italian.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Marco TutinoMajor: Communications in Filmmaking
Home University: Le Moyne College
My path through Florence
B o r g o S a n F r e d i a n o t o P i a z z a l e
M i c h e l a n g e l o . I r e a l i z e d t h i s w a s m y
path when I arrived at the top of the hill,
overlooking the city. The first time I saw the
amazing view of Florence from this piazza
was Fall 2012, visiting my sister when she
studied abroad. Being that it is my turn and I
live only 10 minutes away, I realized that this
path was not only aesthetically beautiful but
also nostalgic for me.
I became a Florentine when
I had lunch at I Cartuccio on my block,
San Frediano. I spoke with Renato, one of
the owners of the restaurant. Although my
italian wasnt perfect we had a simple and
friendly conversation. He asked where I am
staying for the time that I am here, I told him
right on this block and he said, “Ahh! Sei
uno San Fredianino!”
The best class/instructor at FUA was
Intro to Digital Photography with Enrica
Quaranta.
I have a pretty good understanding of digital
photography but this class helps me to
sharpen my skill set and learn more about
photography in general and photo editing.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
Pinos, Top of the Duomo, The David,
Boboli Gardens, Buying a bike, Traveling to
Scandicci and Galluzzo.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Devan ValorosoMajor: Journalism
Home University: Stony Brook University
My path through Florence Gomitolo del Oro to Piazza dell’ Indipendenza. I realized this was my path when on the days where I don’t have anything to do I go to the Piazza dell’ Indipendenza. It’s become my go to spot in all of Florence, partly because of location, partly because of convenience, but mostly because it’s a place where I can turn the world off and just reflect. It’s actually kind of ironic that this piazza has become “my place” because I had stumbled upon it my first night in Florence just hours after my arrival. I hadn’t found it again until about three weeks after, but that second time I found it, laid down on the grass for hours and stared at the sky I knew that this was my physical path here in Florence.
I became a Florentine when I felt like Florentine’s recognized me as Florentine, I felt like I recognized myself as
Florentine and I felt like Florence recognized me as Florentine. I had walked to Parco delle Cascine in search of the piscina, but when I got there I found that it was closed. I found myself in this huge festival filled with Florentines. I spent the day there by myself just observing and taking part in the action. As I stood up against the fence as the horse riders rode past me carrying the Italian flag, as tradition Italian music pierced the area, as children smiled with utter excitement, as I stood amongst the people that were born here I couldn’t help but feel like I belonged. This place was no longer a place where I was studying, a place that I was visiting, but a place that I could call my home.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
The first day here in Florence. The entire Stony Brook program went on a sightseeing walk after orientation and we ended up at Gusta Pizza. Although we didn’t know each
other, it was so much fun. Looking back, it’s so amazing to think about the thoughts that were going through my head, the grandeur of the city, the expectations that I had for the trip and the people I would meet and the perceptions that I had of each of them because the people that I’ve met through FUA’s Stony Brook Program have become my best and closest friends here. They say in order to know where you’re going you have to remember where you came from, and it makes all the sense now.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list: Climbing to the top of the Piazza del Duomo, watching a sunset from the top of the Michaelangelo, going to Cinque Terre, seeing and swimming in water the color of the sky, trying authentic Italian pizza, traveling to the Amalfi Coast, going to Pompei (it’s been a dream of mine since the 3rd grade), Meet people from all over the world, ride a Vespa, Tuscan wine tasting, try gelato.
STONY BROOK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY
Ilana WolfMajor: Clinical Health Studies/Physical Therapy
Home University: Ithaca College
My path through Florence
From my apartment to the San Lorenzo
Market I realized this was my path when
One day I came out a different way than I
thought I was when coming back from the
market. I had no idea where I was going but
I knew the general direction. I followed my
instinct of which streets to take and then
shortly after I realized I was already on my
street. I feel like this happens a lot when
walking around Florence-you may not know
exactly how to get somewhere and
you can even get lost on the way, but in the
end you always find where you have to go. I
now take this way back every time.
I became a Florentine when I was
Able to go to the market and get all my
groceries, rather than going to Conad, and
speak in Italian (as best I can). I also feel
part of the community when I go running
and I pass other Florentines running.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
Volunteering at the St. James Food Bank.
Getting to taste one hundred year old
balsamic vinegar on a class field trip was
also really cool.
Items checked off my Florence bucket list:
Going to a non-touristy place without using
a map to get there, watching the sunset at
Piazza Michelangelo and getting a sandwich
from All’Antico Vinaio.
FLORENCE FALL FLORENCE FALL 20142014
Veronica WendyMajor: English, Italian, Legal Studies
Home University: SUNY Buffalo
My path through Florence
Via dello Sprone to sQuola.
I realized this was my path when I knew
which part of the cobblestone dipped lower
than the others. I knew the exact location
where I should avoid twisting my ankle. I
wouldn’t have to look down anymore to
watch the ground, I just knew where to step.
My most memorable moment at FUA was
The first time I had a group project with my
now good friends. We really bonded over
a little group project that was due in a few
hours. Luckily, we all worked together and
pulled together an assignment that was
pretty good. I didn’t expect group projects
to bring together some of my closest friends
now. I’ve recently gone on some day trips
with them, and I am so glad I’ve met them.
My favorite Italian word/phrase is
“Ci vediamo!” I love saying it because of the
way it rolls of your tongue!
Stony BrookUniversity
FLORENCE ITALYFLORENCE ITALYFALL 2014 PROGR AMFALL 2014 PROGR AM
CREDITS
Photo Credits: Silvia Mancini & David WiessPhoto Credits: Silvia Mancini & David Wiess
Project Coordinator: Melissa RossiProject Coordinator: Melissa Rossi
Stony BrookStony BrookUniversity ProgramUniversity Program
Fall 2014 Class:Fall 2014 Class:
Albertrani TealAlbertrani Teal
Amann BradAmann Brad
Armaganian NadineArmaganian Nadine
Bowen LindseyBowen Lindsey
Crisalli NicoleCrisalli Nicole
Elgott MillyElgott Milly
Fazio NicholasFazio Nicholas
Filler LaurenFiller Lauren
Garcia Christopher Garcia Christopher
Gatto AlyssaGatto Alyssa
Graham MeganGraham Megan
Honis Rachel Honis Rachel
Jing PengzhanJing Pengzhan
Kachmarchyk OksanaKachmarchyk Oksana
Lamb Gary Lamb Gary
Martimucci StevenMartimucci Steven
Matthews Joslyn Matthews Joslyn
Oliveira Italo Oliveira Italo
Phillips ArielPhillips Ariel
Poplausky JennaPoplausky Jenna
Rahman TaniaRahman Tania
Rothstein MalloryRothstein Mallory
Schantz BenjaminSchantz Benjamin
Tarzy Fiona Tarzy Fiona
Tinghitella DanielleTinghitella Danielle
Tutino MarcoTutino Marco
Valoroso Devan Valoroso Devan
Wendy VeronicaWendy Veronica
Wolf IlanaWolf Ilana