The First-Year Florence Experience
First-Year Florence Experience
Begin your college experience in Florence, Italy where culture and creativity shape daily life and immerse yourself in Italian art, language, cuisine, and community. Stay on track with your Marist degree pursuing foundational coursework, while also allowing exploration of a city best known for Italian icons such as Ponte Vecchio, Michelangelo’s David, and Brunelleschi’s Dome. With the city as your classroom and the support of fully qualified administration, faculty, staff, and residence life personnel in both Florence and New York, FFE inspires learning that lasts a lifetime.
Plus, all enrolled First-Year Abroad students are considered for a one-year $5,000 scholarship to support their international experience.
“I chose to pursue a year in Florence because I wanted to immerse myself in the cultural history and language of the country, as well as a new daily life— plus, as a photographer, cities like Florence are a dream! My favorite thing about Florence is having the opportunity to take engaging classes with classmates and instructors from all over the world, and the different perspectives that come with that.” - Alice Adams '28, First-Year Florence
An experience abroad, especially in the first year, is a unique way to make yourself stand out. As an FFE student you are supported by fully qualified administration, faculty, staff, and residence life personnel in both Florence and New York. These caring professionals offer a full range of facilities, services, and support while you study in this unique learning environment. You will have access to the vast resources of Florentine life: museums, festivals, music, opera, and an unrivaled architectural history. Special excursions, workshops, and events have been designed for our FFE participants that build a sense of community, encourage cultural immersion, and foster travel opportunities to other parts of Italy and beyond.