Service-Learning Program in Siena, Italy

Study Abroad integrated with Volunteer Service Study Abroad in Italy

Deeper, More Meaningful Study Abroad

Siena, a small medieval city in the center of Tuscany, is "the cradle of the Italian language" and the heartland of the Italian of Dante. Service-learning in Siena offers an ideal opportunity for you to learn Italian (or strengthen your existing skills) through a full immersion in Italian life.

You will spend a semester in Siena, engaging in intensive Italian language study at the beginning, intermediate, or advanced level; living in a homestay with an Italian family; serving 15–20 hours a week in an Italian agency or school; taking a course in socio-anthropology, related to your service; and going on guided excursions. All of these activities blend into a unique and innovative language-teaching method, FICCS (Full Immersion Culture, Content, and Service).The program is designed to give you a rich and varied experience of modern Italian society and social issues.

Language of Instruction Italian
Affiliated institution: Siena Italian Studies
Courses & Credits:
Service Opportunities:
  • teaching English to elementary school children
  • teaching English to ambulance drivers
  • working alongside medical personnel in an ambulance
  • assisting in alternative medicine
  • assisting with the elderly
  • community development
  • providing immigrant and refugee assistance
  • helping with an organic farm and restaurant
  • More...
Housing: Homestay
Dates, Costs & Deadlines:
Fall 2008 09/04/2008 - 12/20/2008 $15,525 Application Due 06/01/2008
Spring 2009 01/15/2009 - 05/07/2009 $15,525 Application Due 11/01/2008
Summer programs are also offered in Italy.
Why IPSL?
  • Accelerated language learning
  • Full cultural immersion
  • Real cultural understanding
  • Meaningful growth and personal insight
  • 3-day orientation outside Siena
  • Field trips exploring Tuscany and other parts of Italy, including a 3-day trip
Program Director(s): Ms. Lavinia Bracci
Eligibility: The program welcomes students of any nation, with any level of Italian language skill. Academic studies are taught in Italian at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels.
What's Included: Fees include: Academic program tuition; 3-day orientation trip; homestay (including all meals); service agency placement and supervision; excursions and program-related activities; bus pass for local transportation; health insurance; administrative fees; and pre-departure materials. Personal expenses are not included such as airfare; books; spending money; and travel money for the semester break.

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