Standing on a rooftop in Florence, Italy, a group of Penn State students take in the beauty that comes with studying abroad for a semester.
Through the Penn State School of Hospitality Management and Penn State Global Programs, 18 students are studying full-time for the spring semester in the International School of Hospitality at Florence University of the Arts.
“Florence is absolutely breathtaking,” said student Katherine McAuliffe. “All of my classes, so far, have not only been interesting, but the professors are passionate and make the learning experience so fun.”
Students take five courses related to hospitality management, which are equivalent to Penn State courses. Students also have an option to take an elective course in cooking or wine pairing. FUA offers experiential learning, which is the combination of learning in an academic environment and experiencing closely the local community and culture.
“Exposure to a very different culture opens your mind,” said Marja Verbeeten, teaching associate professor of hospitality management and professor-in-charge of international programs. “These students are taking a risk by going away for such a long time, away from their family and friends. This experience builds their self-esteem and enhances their resumes. Companies are looking for employees with global exposure.
Like at Penn State, student Phil Tatarzyn said the hospitality management courses at FUA are first-rate.
“Our hospitality management professor is very knowledgeable and has a lot of experience in the hospitality industry,” Tatarzyn said. “The professor does a great job of leading group discussions and getting a lot of class participation. We frequently tour many of the luxury five-star properties throughout Florence and have an opportunity to speak with managers and department heads.”
One of Tatarzyn’s favorite aspects of the experience is the Ganzo School Restaurant and Fedora School Pastry Shop, a student-run restaurant and bakery open to the public, similar to Café Laura at Penn State University Park.
“FUA offers many culinary arts programs for talented aspiring chefs, so the food and pastries the students make are ridiculously good,” Tatarzyn said.
Beyond the classroom, student Jasmine Laraichi is enjoying the opportunity to immerse herself in a new culture.
“The city itself is absolutely stunning,” Laraichi said. “I’m still exploring, but I’ve fallen in love with everything I’ve seen so far. The food is rich and fresh at both restaurants and grocery stores alike. You can find pizza and gelato at every single block. … I am truly blessed to be able to live here for four months.”