Student Manual
Orientation
All students will attend a mandatory detailed Orientation in which specific Health and Safety information will be provided. Further information can be found in this Student Manual, including specific information regarding health, medical care, and general safety advice for living in Italy.
The Student Life and Development Department offers a series of activities during orientation in order to make the transition to life in Italy as easy as possible, such as the Explore Your Neighborhood and Living in Florence / Cinque Terre seminars. The Explore Your Neighborhood tour helps you learn about your neighborhood and how to shop for your basic needs, as well as discover malls, supermarkets and other stores near the city center, making Florence / Cinque Terre your new cozy home!
The Living in Florence / Cinque Terre Seminars help you learn all about your new home and covers topics such as ways to explore the city, leisure-time activities, and how to adapt to life in your host country.
For more information on arrivals and orientation please visit the Arrivals page.
Extracurricular
Activities
The student Life & Development Department offers a rich and varied calendar of activities suited to the diverse needs and interests of the student body. Don’t forget to take a look at the EFL (Educational Field Learning) activities as well!.
How to Sign Up for Sld Extracurriculars
You can sign up for all SLD activities through the student portal. You will find the sign-up page under “activity sign-up” section on the home page.
If you sign up for an activity, you are expected to attend. Please note that failure to attend an activity without cancellation will compromise your possibility to participate in future activities.
Please note: All calendar events (times, locations, activities, etc.) are subject to change. Please check our weekly email announcements for details on activities
This series of activities, described below, are designed to enhance cultural awareness and guide students in their educational outcomes and personal growth during their time in Italy. Through Connecting Cultures, students have the opportunity to interact with the local community.
Community Outreach
This activity offers volunteering opportunities for our students within the local community allowing them to truly integrate and give back to their host city. Each of our partner associations is unique, and volunteers are often the fundamental element that keeps these organizations in operation!
Most of the organizations do not require particular skills or the ability to speak Italian, but they all require a serious commitment from volunteers in order to accomplish their goals.
Italian Family Club
This unique activity gives students a more in-depth, hands-on opportunity to get personally involved with an “adoptive” Italian family.
Through the Italian Family Club, the students will closely interact with their family members, while discovering and observing their unique habits and customs up close. Students and families will be “matched” according to the characteristics and requirements of both parties. The family and their adopted member will build a two-way relationship that will develop over the semester through mutual and productive exchanges, with a minimum number of weekly and weekend visits.
Please note that the number of host families is limited, therefore, not all applicants will be accepted in the program.
Chat Pal
This language exchange activity connects Italians with students in order to facilitate a meaningful connection with a member of the community and, at the same time, improve your Italian language skills.
The Chat Pal program requires conversation partners to meet at least once a week (one hour). Partners should speak in Italian for 30 minutes and 30 minutes in the student’s native language. Specific time and locations are arranged between the partners.
City Walks
“Mens sana in corpore sano”, a sound mind in a sound body, is the philosophy behind the Mind and Body series of activities. This series includes fitness opportunities meant to inspire and empower students through guided runs/power walks in new neighborhoods.
Help them keep fit and embrace the Italian terrain, as well as special workshops aimed to empower students during the experience.
In Florence, you can also take part in weekly guided workout classes and self defense seminars in the Wellness Lab at Via Ricasoli 21!
This activity is a great way to keep in shape while expanding your knowledge of Italian fitness culture. Whether it’s a soccer game, a volleyball match or an evening spent kayaking through the coast of the Riviera, it’s a good opportunity for every student to get out and try something new.
Even if you are not an athlete, everyone is welcome to have fun on the field or just cheer on your classmates from the stands.
Movie Night is the activity where students can enjoy a carefully selected film in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere.
Whether it’s a recent release, a classic, or something in between, each screening offers a chance to unwind and enjoy a great movie with friends.It’s the perfect way to spend an evening in good company while immersing yourself in the world of cinema.
(DEI) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion activities offer a space where students can delve into the experiences of different identities, as part of our institution commitment to foster a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
The Career Center guides our students towards their professional future. You will be challenged to understand your strengths and improve your skill set. Learn how to brand yourself to find the professional path that best fits your aspirations.
Blending is the university magazine created and managed by faculty and students. Writers, photographers, copy editors, and graphic designers who are excited about publishing their experiences and perspectives gained in Italy, as well as novice writers just looking for a format to document their experience in Italy, are all welcome to collaborate.
Ongoing events at the Palazzi Community Center in Via Ricasoli 21 – Florence Campus, are open to the community and the general public. Readings, seminars, exhibits, local producers, and much more are featured on a regular basis.
Please visit the PCC calendar at the following link for exact dates, times, and featured topics.
Housing
The Housing Office assists students with the housing arrangement process. We do not own or lease apartments but work as a facilitator to assist students in finding accommodation during their stay in Florence.
The Housing Office’s objective is to ensure that students live comfortably and have an enriching study abroad experience. Students will select their housing preference during application process. The Housing Office will complete assignments only for students who request housing within the designated deadline.
Housing Assignments and Availability
Apartments will be assigned on a first come, first served basis according to availability, and assignments are communicated at least 14 days prior to arrival in Florence. Depending on their request, students will be assigned to a single or shared bedroom based on availability. Common spaces will be shared with other roommates. If a student request cannot be met due to space limitations, the student will be assigned according to availability and notified before arrival. Students will not be able to choose their apartment or change roommates. All roommate requests must be specified in the housing section of the admissions application.
Pick-up Services
Pick-up Services for students arriving in Florence individually and not with pre-arranged group pick-up service, may make a separate request for pick up when submitting their arrival information. Separate requests require an extra charge. Please consult the arrival and check in page for more information.
Health Information Disclosure
Please let us know either via email or on the housing application form if the student has a medical condition or disability that needs to be disclosed to the Housing Office and which requires specific attention.
Maintenance and Housing Assistance
The Housing Office assists students with housing concerns, emergencies, or issues throughout their stay in Florence. The Housing Office can be contacted in person, by email, or by phone. After office hours, for immediate assistance, an emergency number is available 24/7. The housing rules provided to all students upon check-in indicate what does or does not constitute as an emergency. Non-urgent and general maintenance requests are communicated by the student following the protocol which will be explained in orientation. Detailed information regarding housing policies can be found at the top of the page under “Housing Policy.”
City guides
Florence & Cinque Terre
Your go-to guide for student life—navigate daily essentials, from shopping to transportation, and make the most of your time in Florence and Cinque Terre!
Italian cities rich in history, art, and culture. Whether you’re here to study, explore, or immerse yourself in Italian life, understanding the city’s daily rhythms will enhance your experience. From navigating local shopping habits and markets to finding reliable transportation, this guide provides essential insights for students living in Italy. Discover the best spots for leisure, practical tips for day-to-day life, and how to make the most of your time in historic and vibrant cities.
Services
We offer a variety of services to our students in order to make studying in Italy a truly memorable experience.
With our unwavering dedication, we provide comprehensive academic support and foster a deep sense of cultural immersion
Student Portal
The Student Portal is a personal area where students can access online services such as course materials.
Here you will find:
- Wi-Fi Vouchers
- Official Registration
- Orientation Materials
- Course Syllabi and Assignments
- Activity sign-up
- Housing Maintenance Forms
- Travel Log (students with non-provider housing are required to submit all travel plans for any trips outside of Florence / La Spezia at anytime during their studies)
Meal Plans & Units
According to the program enrollment, students may purchase food and services at the school’s different CEMI (Cultural Engagement Member Institutions) locations. CEMI are cultural entities not only created for but also managed and run by students, a project that promotes the institution’s mission of cultural integration, experiential learning, and community engagement within the city of Florence and Italy.
Students may use their units at Ganzo, Fedora, or Sorgiva during operating hours. You only need your student ID card to use your meal plan, which can be found digitally on the student platform under the “my profile” section. Meal units will automatically be deducted from your account when the barcode is scanned at checkout. Afterward, you will receive an email with the number of units you have used.
More units can be purchased during all sessions. In Florence, please refer to the Ganzo, Fedora, and Sorgiva websites for prices and menus.
To upgrade your CEMI Units, please contact:
sld-studentservices@florencecampus.org
Campus Internet Access Point & Wi-Fi
In Florence, all students may use the Internet points located in Via Ricasoli and Via San Gallo. Media Lab terminals are not Internet access points.
To log on to campus computers, you will be asked for a username and password. When you first log in, use your Student ID number, found on the left side of your student ID card, as both your username and password. You will be asked to change your password after your first log in to guarantee privacy.
All campus facilities are equipped with a student Wi-Fi network.
Access codes are found under the my-profile section of the Student Portal.
Scanner and Fax Services
A scanner is available in the library for students. You can send it through email or save in flash-drive. Fax services are available to students at every facility’s front desk.
Costs for fax services are as follows:
- Italy, 1€/page;
- within Europe, 3€/page;
- all other countries 5€/page.
Photocopying is not available on campus. If you need to make photocopies, please refer to “Printing Services” section below.
Printing Services
In Florence, students can print personal documents at the computers provided on the first floor of Via Ricasoli 21, for 10 cents per page. All prints will be available at the front desk.
The library
The library is located in Corso dei Tintori, 21 – Florence Campus and is available to all students, faculty, and staff for study, assignments and research.
- The library is a reference library and any of the books can be borrowed with no time limits, to be used exclusively within the reading room.
- A document scanner is also available in the library to reproduce text extracts for later referral.
- You may copy documents electronically to your email account as a PDF file at no cost, though we ask you to be mindful of fair use copyright laws. The applicable rules can be found in the library.
- Students are welcome to consult the online library catalog for information on available texts. The link to the library catalog can be found on the student portal.
Please note the following rules for the library:
- Students must scan their ID card upon entering the library and leave their ID at the librarian’s desk.
- No handbags, backpacks, or bags are allowed in the library. Lockers are available to check items while in the library – please ask the librarian.
- All books must be checked in and out by the librarian. Therefore, all library patrons are to request books directly from the librarian and are asked to not remove the books from the stacks on their own. Books are to be returned to the librarian before leaving the library.
- Food or drinks are not allowed in the library.
For library hours, informations and, appointments contact:
LA PALESTRA - Florence Campus Gym
La Palestra is our university’s gym. The gym provides students access to weights, treadmills, stationary bikes, elliptical machines, and showers Monday through Friday.
Access to the gym is free, and it is required that you sign in and out of the gym in the SLD office. You can find La Palestra in Corso Tintori 21 – Florence Campus. Gym hours.
Community Engagement Member Institutions - CEMI
Community Engagement Member Institutions are non-profit entities that support our mission to cultivate cultural immersion.
Each CEMI is strongly linked to an academic division. CEMI initiatives and projects are open to the public and involve students in experiential learning, with results shared with the local Florentine community.
Here’s a list of the CEMI that students can access on our Florence Campus:
- Ganzo School Restaurant
- Fedora School Pastry Shop
- Sorgiva Spa
- Dimora Guest Apartments
- Pomario Botanical Retail Store
- FLY Fashion Loves You
Palazzi Community Center, in Florence, is a non-profit foundation that manages the projects and activities of the Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI) affiliated with the Institution entities that support our commitment to cultural immersion. Learn more at The Palazzi Community Center website.
Community Center
Palazzi The community Center is a non-profit foundation that manages the projects and activities of the Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI) affiliated with the Institution entities that support our commitment to cultural immersion.
Learn more at The Palazzi Community Center website.
Receiving and Sending Mail
Students are advised to have any mail sent to the Corso Tintori 21 office as there is always someone to accept it and most apartments do not include mailbox keys. Please have any packages and letters sent to:
Your Name
℅ FUA and AUF
Corso Tintori, 21
50122 Firenze
Italia
We will send you an email letting you know that you can pick up your package.
We will not send you any notifications if you receive letters. Be sure to stop by frequently and check our letter box for any possible postcards from home!
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Customs Regulations
Customs regulations are becoming increasingly more strict and you may be required to pay a fee to receive a package. Please note that the university has no jurisdiction over what may or may not be accepted into the country. As rule, very costly items and electronics will incur costly customs fees. Medication, food items and some toiletries are not items that should be shipped into Italy. We strongly recommend that you bring enough medication with you to meet your needs while abroad. Packages with medication will likely get blocked at customs and require import documentation and a fee for release. Usually the same medications can be prescribed and purchased in Italy directly. Please also note that certain prescription drugs are illegal in Italy and will not be allowed through customs if shipped. For further information on customs regulations, please refer to the official customs website.
If there is a customs fee to pay, the front desk will not pay these fees upfront, but will facilitate the transaction for the student, according to the procedure of the courier. Oftentimes, the express courier will make arrangements for a second drop off; in this case, you will receive an email from Student Life with the custom fee to be paid. You will be responsible to bring the customs fees in cash to the front desk before the new delivery date or your package will not be accepted. Please also note that packages that arrive in Italy through government postal services, such as USPS, are delivered in Italy through the Poste Italiane, and this service does not foresee a second delivery date in the case of customs fees. Therefore, packages must be retrieved directly by the student from the postal deposit. In this case, you will also receive an email from Student Life to inform you that your package has arrived and instructions on where to pay the fees to retrieve your package.
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Sending Mail
Stamps, or francobolli in italian, can be purchased at either the post office or at a tabacchi (tobacco stores are small gift shops located all around the city). It is much easier to purchase stamps at a Tabacchi, just show them your letter or postcard and they will give you the correct postage. Beware of the ‘special postal service’ always ask for ‘francobolli delle Poste Italiane’ ONLY; If they do not have the exact postage for you, please refer to the post office. Once stamped, you can mail letters and postcards in public mailboxes. Drop it ONLY in a red mailbox or bring it to a nearby postal office.
Packages can be mailed through Poste Italiane,, the Italian postal service. Alternatively, postcards, letters, and packages can be sent through the private postal services such as Fedex, UPS, DHL, or GLS or through Poste Italiane, the Italian postal service.
Lockers
Lockers are available to students on a first-come first-serve basis. There is no charge for locker rental, however, a 10 euro key deposit is required, to be returned at the end of the semester. Lockers are available in Via Ricasoli 21 and Via Guelfa 85 – Florence Campus; please ask at the front desk for further information.
The Writing Center
All enrolled students are welcome to make an appointment with the Writing Center at any stage in the writing process. A SLD advisor will be there to help brainstorm ideas, construct a thesis statement, or proofread a draft for clarity and grammar.
The Student Life Department Writing Lab provides one-on-one writing consultations, to empower students to become stronger, more confident writers in their coursework and beyond.
The writing lab can also help with Italian writing and grammar assignments.
To set up an appointment please email the Student Life Department.
The Career Center
Meeting with a Career Center advisor is available upon appointment to discuss career goals, internship options, resume creation and revision, prepare for an interview, and much more.
To set up an appointment please email the Student Life Department.
Alumni Association
Whether you are a student studying abroad or obtaining a degree, you will always be a part of the Florentine community. The Alumni Association is committed to keeping and strengthening a successful long-term relationship with its alumni.
The Alumni Association promotes and coordinates alumni support with the goal of strengthening the high-quality academic and public service programs of the university. The goal of this group is to involve and inform the alumni community in order to build powerful networks and create initiatives that connect us to all the students (both alumni and current students), our communities, and faculty members. Alumni are representatives of the heritage and achievement of the University. The Alumni Association celebrates student achievements and looks forward to being on your side as you experience the exciting opportunities and challenges that await you.
The Alumni Service maintains contact with current and past students who are living and working around the world and representing the viewpoints, languages, and cultures of the global network university.
The objectives of the service is establish and maintain a network of contacts with alumni who interact and communicate with each other and who are increasingly moving around the world; promote university development; create and encourage networking among our students, companies, and institutions; be the high-quality intermediary of integrated, and comprehensive communications and administrative support services between our students and the job market.
The service manages the alumni database, monitors on a yearly basis the career of past students, and organizes events for the alumni. Furthermore, it takes care of the development of a Career Service offered to all graduates and organizes themed meetings, keeps alumni up to date with university news and current events (congresses, conferences, and more).
Health
& Wellbeing
The goal of the Student Life Department is to make sure students are safe. Italy’s health care system and overall hygienic standards are excellent. No specific health issues are to be expected, and no special immunizations or vaccinations are required to enter Italy from most countries. However, colds and flu bugs are common like in any country.
Wellness
Personal safety is a concern for anyone in any part of the world. It is especially important to have a personal safety plan while abroad. This may include a strategy to cope with illness and culture shock, as well as emergency situations. It’s important to prevent the unexpected when you can. Most of us overestimate the danger of rare events, which we have little or no control over, yet underestimate the threat of everyday events we can control. Take steps to prevent situations such as theft, pedestrian safety, and getting lost. It is good to be prepared with prevention tips to ensure your own personal safety.
Medical Services in Florence
We collaborate with professional doctors from a lengthy and highly recommended background in assisting students and foreigners.
Please inquire whether the physician accepts your plan when you schedule the appointment to see if the cost of the visit is covered by direct payment, or contact your insurance provider directly for a list of physicians that your policy may cover.
Please always take your insurance card to the doctor and keep all receipts, also if you purchase any medicine at the pharmacy.
If you need to schedule a doctor’s appointment, please contact the Student Life and Development office. Our Advisors will put you in contact with the appropriate medical care services.
For more urgent care, or if you need to go to the Emergency Room, you can refer to the Santa Maria Nuova Hospital located in the City Center:
General ER 24/7 Ospedale S. MARIA NUOVA
Piazza S. Maria Nuova, 1 / tel. +39 055 69381
In Italy, as in most European countries, healthcare is available to all citizens and permanent residents in need of medical treatment, though the latter may be charged a nominal fee for this service. Students are welcome to use public health facilities for urgent care but with reasonable fees, depending on the services and exams rendered. For non-residential foreigners, there is always a charge to be paid upfront for an emergency room visit, which may or may not not be reimbursed by your international healthcare provider, depending on your plan.
Pharmacies in Florence
Pharmacies are located throughout the city center and are easily recognizable by the green or red cross displayed at the entrance. Please also note that there are two pharmacies operating on extended hours in the center of Florence. In an illness that does not require immediate medical treatment, a pharmacist can often assist with over-the-counter medications. Look for the green cross for a nearby pharmacy.
Foreign prescriptions are not accepted in Italian pharmacies under any circumstance, and unless the medication is sold over the counter in Italy, a prescription from a physician licensed in Italy is required.
It is advisable for students to purchase any medication directly in Italy and never have medicine shipped from their home country, as the package will very likely get blocked at customs
Counseling Services
Free on-site counseling:
We strive to support students by offering resources to help them achieve their academic and personal aspirations. Our counseling services offer support to students as they adjust to and learn about Italian culture. Free onsite counseling is accessible to all students.
To set up a counseling appointment, please email and speak with the Student Life Department office.
Culture shock is defined as the disorientation experienced when a person is exposed to an unfamiliar culture or way of life.
The Student Life Department office also hosts cultural adjustment seminars during the semester. Sign up through the Student Portal!.
To help counteract and cope with these changes, it is important to keep in mind the following:
Keep an open mind.
Do not automatically perceive things that are different as ‘wrong’ or ‘bad.’ Withholding judgment will facilitate cross-cultural understanding. If you find yourself in or going to a country that you know little or nothing about, do some research to prepare yourself.
Make an effort to pick up local customs and language, even just a few key phrases.
Follow what is going on in the community, especially in Florence.
The city is teeming with festivals, events, and cultural activities; read the local newspapers and ask questions to integrate yourself with your new surroundings.
Try to achieve a sense of stability in your life.
It is completely normal to feel a little disoriented and uncomfortable upon arrival!
Don’t be too hard on yourself; it takes a little while to orient oneself and become comfortable. Also, keep in mind that you are not alone and that there are plenty of others in your shoes and plenty of people around to help.
Homesickness can affect people of all ages in almost any situation. This longing for home is common. Here are some helpful tips to help combat some of these feelings:
- Create a network of friends in your new surroundings. You will find that there are many people who feel the same way as you do, and your mutual support can help during peaks of homesickness.
- Make friends with your fellow peers. Don’t be afraid to branch out and ask others to grab a cup of coffee or lunch. Think of group activities to do or join in the activities provided through the campus. It is a great way to meet new people and stay engaged.
Stress is a normal psychological and physical reaction to the ever-changing and increasing demands of life. During stressful times, stress management is important. Do not wait until stress has a negative impact on your health, relationships, or experience to take care of the situation.
Steps to combat your stress include:
- Identifying your stress triggers.
- Once you’ve identified your triggers, it is easier to start thinking about strategies for coping with them. Try to avoid the stressful situation and if that isn’t possible, find distractions, limit your time in the stressful environment, or seek help and support. It can be very helpful to talk through your situation, so you do not feel as if you need to figure things out all on your own.
- Examine how you currently cope with stress: Is it appropriate for your situation? Is it a healthy and helpful activity?
- Avoid unnecessary stress. Limiting your level of stress by not worrying about trivial things can be a first step in reducing your overwhelming feelings.
- Change the situation you are in.
Some things to help you relax can include stepping back from your situation and going for a walk or taking part in physical activity, deep breathing exercises, or seeking other healthy distractions. Writing down what is bothering you can also give you some insight into what is on your mind and from there you can reflect on effective solutions. Be willing to compromise in certain situations to find a happy medium and make sure to look at things in terms of the bigger picture. Try not to control the uncontrollable – this will only lead to more stress. Instead try your best to look at the upside to the situation.
Among the techniques to reduce stress, make time for fun and relaxation. Taking care of yourself and maintaining a healthy lifestyle both physically and mentally will help you to handle the challenges and stressors life sends your way.
Florence and Cinque Terre are considered safe cities, however, students should take the same precautions to protect themselves and their property that they would take in any large city. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
Student Contact Information
In the event of an emergency, it is imperative that staff be able to contact you. For this reason, students must provide accurate and up-to-date contact information, including emergency contact information.
A local phone number: the university requires students to have either a local phone number or an international plan which allows them to make and receive calls. Students should not count on using WiFi for communication as WiFi is not always available or reliable.
Please remember to keep your phone charged and with you at all times.
Important Documents
Make a photo or digital copy of all important documents (passport and visa, driver’s license/ID card, health insurance information, immigration documents, etc.) in case you lose or misplace the originals. Keep these copies in a safe place, separate from the originals. Do not take originals with you unless you are traveling outside your host city.
It is also a good idea to leave a copy at home with your family or emergency contacts.
Email important information (such as your passport number and expiration date, etc.) to yourself so that is always accessible.
Safety in Numbers
Make every effort to avoid traveling alone when possible. Always let someone know of your travel plans, even just for day trips.
When traveling outside your host city overnight, the university requires all students to fill out the Travel Log on the Student Portal and to follow their specific provider’s instructions for travel plans.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid bus and train stations and poorly-lit areas after dark, and make sure to always walk in groups. Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. NEVER leave your bags and belongings unattended. Not only is there the risk of losing or having your personal items stolen, but someone may place illegal items in your luggage for which you may be held responsible.
Before going to a place for the first time, always make sure to study a map and the route you would like to take. Looking confused or lost may make you a target.
Make Smart Choices
Be aware that many countries have strict laws regarding the use and/or possession of illegal substances and you may face serious consequences for breaking these laws. Excessive drinking will impair your ability to judge situations and make decisions, making you more vulnerable and a possible target for crime.
- Always carry your phone, apartment keys, and some cash on you.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash on you. If you do need to carry a larger amount, divide it in different wallets and pockets.
- Never keep your home address together with your keys.
- Keep credit cards in a separate wallet from IDs and Cash.
- Don’t leave your personal belongings unattended and be aware of your belongings at all times, especially in crowded spaces.
- Don’t leave your apartment unsecured: lock your door before leaving the apartment and when you are home for the night.
- Avoid walking alone at night.
- Never invite a stranger to your apartment or enter a stranger’s apartment.
- Do not accept drinks or rides from strangers.
- Do not be lulled into a false sense of security. Be safety conscious but not fearful!
Students who travel overseas to reach Florence may experience Jet lag during the initial days or weeks. It is a temporary condition that occurs when a person travels across three or more time zones in a short period of time. As your body clock adjusts to the new time zone, your daily rhythms and internal drive for sleep and wakefulness can be out of sync. Each individual responds differently to the time change depending on age, physical fitness, and one’s ability to adapt to a new environment. Duration and intensity of jet lag are dependent on the number of time zones crossed, the direction of travel, and personal ability to sleep while traveling.
Symptoms include:
- Increased fatigue
- Poor sleep, early awakening, or fretful sleep
- Poor performance in physical and mental tasks during the daytime accompanied by headaches and difficulty concentrating
- Mild depression
- Increased irritability
- Gastrointestinal disturbances and decreased interest in the enjoyment of meals
Remedies:
- Optimize exposure to sunlight after arrival
- Eat meals at appropriate, new local time
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid excess caffeine or alcohol
- Take short naps (20-30 minutes) to increase energy without undermining nighttime sleep
Classroom
Regulations
Please note that some courses and departments have specific regulations regarding uniforms, equipment usage, and materials. Examples include courses related to culinary arts, photography, and fine arts. Regulations are provided by each department through course syllabi.
APICIUS - International School of hospitality
Kitchen Rules
Students must remember that cooking classes will include various tasks which all students must carry out. Students are also required to participate in a polite and responsible way, abiding by the following:
- Cooking classes will include all different types of recipes and students are expected to actively participate in all lessons regardless of personal likes or dislikes.
- Depending on seasonal availability, some ingredients and/or recipes might be subject to change.
- Apicius is not a restaurant: by law, meals cannot be served, though small tastings are allowed. Therefore, students should not expect to eat a meal at the end of each class. The portions prepared in class are designed to teach various techniques and recipes, and to be tasted under the supervision of the chef in order to critique the student’s work and maximize the comprehension of the day’s lesson.
- Food is not to be taken out of the kitchen/lab under any circumstance. In accordance with Italian health codes, it is strictly forbidden to take any leftover food out of the school, including any fully cooked food products and baked goods. Therefore, DO NOT take any food out of the kitchen at the end of class.
- Students are not allowed to bring friends into kitchens for tasting after class nor enter in other classrooms to taste leftovers.
- Refrigerators are not to be used by students to store personal food during class time. Any personal use of the kitchens by students is strictly forbidden.
- All kitchens are off limits while class is not in session. Students are not allowed to enter the kitchens more than 15 minutes before their scheduled class begins, in order for the Apicius staff to properly clean and prepare for the lesson.
- It is strictly forbidden to sit on kitchen stations.
- Keep the station neat and orderly.
- Wash all kitchen utensils and working stations. Students are responsible for kitchen utensils. The cost of any missing utensil will be shared by all students.
- DO NOT leave the kitchen/lab when waiting for food to be ready.
- Cell phones are not allowed in kitchens/labs and computers or tablets are off limits during class time.
- Bags, backpacks, and jackets are to be left outside of the kitchens, in lockers or on the coat racks. Please, do not leave bags or jackets anywhere else.
Food and Culture Courses
- Students will be provided an apron that must be worn during every cooking lab. The apron must always be clean and pressed. Students will not be allowed to attend class without the apron or with a dirty, unsanitary apron. The school will not provide a substitute apron.
- Students are requested to wear long pants (no skirts or shorts) and closed shoes.
- Students cannot enter the labs with sandals or flip flops.
Professional Cooking
Each student enrolled in a Professional Culinary Arts Career Program will be provided at the beginning of the program with:
- two chefs jackets
- a chef’s hat
- two aprons
- a dishrag
- a culinary kit
Each student enrolled in a Baking & Pastry Career Program will be provided with:
- two chefs jackets
- a chef’s hat
- two aprons,
- a pastry kit
Each student is required to acquire chef pants and safety kitchen shoes (according to European safety laws EN ISO 20345) and come to class dressed in an appropriate manner.
Students can purchase additional Chef Jackets only at the authorized dealer (contact Student Life Department for authorized dealer list). These jackets must be the exact same ones as those provided by the school (model, color, and presence of logos). No student will be allowed in class without the authorized outfit.
In accordance with most countries’ health codes, all students must:
- Wear a white chef’s jacket. The jacket must always be clean and pressed. Students will not be allowed to attend class with only an apron or a dirty, unsanitary jacket. The school will not provide a substitute jacket.
- Wear a white chef’s hat. The school will not provide a substitute hat and students will not be allowed to attend class with inappropriate head-wear.
- Have all hair tied back in an appropriate manner.
- Wear appropriate black pants to class.
- Students will not be allowed to attend class in shorts or skirts.
- Wear appropriate footwear to class. Students will not be allowed in class wearing sandals or inappropriate shoes. It is recommended that students purchase a pair of safety kitchen shoes.
- Wash hands before class
- Keep fingernails short.
- Is forbidden to wear nail polish.
Remember:
- Bring their own clean dishrags to class in order to keep their station neat and orderly.
- Bring their set of knives to each cooking class, unless otherwise specified by the chef. The school will not provide knives to students who neglect to bring their knife kit to class. It is recommended that students purchase a case to transport knives to and from school.
- Apicius promotes a responsible use kitchen paper towels
Studio Art Classes
Students enrolled in Studio Arts courses are required to abide by the following rules. Students are required to come to class dressed in an appropriate manner. Studio classes can dirty clothes, students are encouraged to dress accordingly.
General rules for all Studio Arts classes
- Students must be aware that some tools (saws, hammers, cutters, drills) and materials (glues, glazes, sprays, etc.) may be hazardous. Students must obtain the instructor’s approval before utilizing these materials. Once instructed on proper use of such materials, students must always be careful and responsible for their use.
- Equipment cannot be used or operated by students who have not been trained to do so.
- Clay, plaster, and cement must always be kept outside of the sinks. Plumbing in the facilities must be well-monitored. If the sinks back up for example, students must notify the instructor/lab assistant immediately.
- Solvents and oil must not be thrown into the sink. These materials pollute the environment and need to be properly disposed of.
- Heavy items must be taken to appropriate garbage bins outside of the school facilities. Paper, glass, plastic, and metals must be disposed of in appropriate bins.
- All studio utensils and work stations are to be properly cleaned after each use. Brushes must be cleaned after each use and placed in their proper storage areas.
- The loss of any personal items is the students’ responsibility.
- Students must respect the work of other classes and individuals at all times.
- Students are responsible for any damage occurring to produced works, as well as for studio tools and the cost of any missing items. Students may be asked to pay a deposit to borrow equipment and materials.
- Cell phones are not allowed in class. Computers are off limits during class time unless necessary for a lecture or project.
- Hands-on coursework requires clean, washed hands, and short fingernails are recommended.
- Students are invited to use the studios when other classes are in session only when authorized by the instructor.
- Students are allowed to paint and draw in the gallery space, but they will be responsible for any possible damage to the space and works of art.
- Students are not allowed to move, take, or damage any part of an ongoing exhibition. Any damages must be reported immediately to the instructor and/or lab assistant.
Ceramics / Sculpture
- Students must wear an apron or a loose fitting shirt and appropriate footwear to attend classes; closed-toe shoes are required at all times in the ceramic studio.
- The school will not provide aprons. It is recommended that students purchase their own aprons or bring an old loose fitting shirt.
- Stations must be kept neat, orderly, and clean during studio and lab hours.
- Clay cannot be kept unwrapped or left in pieces on the floor. Water and clay bits are a slippery combination, any spilt water must be dried immediately. Precautions, such as sweeping carefully, should be kept during clay use as it creates unnecessary dust that can be hazardous. It is highly recommended and suggested to clean areas with a damp sponge or cloth, which is a safe and convenient way to clean.
- Plaster and cement are to be kept away from the clay supply. Such substances cause the clay to explode during the firing process. Glaze area and use requires a clean space management.
- Brushes must be kept clean after each use.
- Work cannot be left unattended when not in production.
- Unknown clays or glazes cannot be mixed together and most importantly, any materials added to clay projects must be approved by the instructor. Students intending to use enamels or experimental glaze techniques must be trained under the supervision of an instructor. Masks must be worked when working with techniques such as spray painting or sanding materials.
- Students are required to have a general awareness of kilns and ceramic production. Kilns represent important machinery and all students working with them must use the necessary caution before and after firing.
Media Labs
- Media Lab computers are only for coursework. Personal email and social media may be viewed at the Internet point.
- Students are not permitted to download programs onto the computers.
- No food or drinks are allowed inside the classrooms.
Photo Studio
- Only authorized and instructor-approved students may use the photo studio.
- No food or drinks are allowed inside the classroom.
- Students must checkout and return all equipment at the front desk.
Darkroom
- Only authorized and instructor-approved students may use the photo studio.
- No food or drinks are allowed inside the classroom.
- Students must check-out and return all equipment at the front desk.
Printing Lab
- Only students who are taking DIVA classes and have printing assignments may use the printers. Students may start to use the printers once they have been approved by their class instructor or TA.
- Students may utilize beginning, intermediate, and advanced printers according to their approved levels.
- Cartridges will be changed only by DIVA staff.
- Only class assignments are allowed to be printed.
PLEASE NOTE: additional requirements by DIVA for Studio equipment can be found in course syllabi.
Emergency
Procedures
The wellbeing of our students is our first priority. In the event of an emergency, experienced staff is prepared to assist students in any way possible in order to ensure their safety.
The university has put in place a detailed plan which contains the response protocols for various emergency situations, ranging from health and safety matters to natural disasters.
When planning for emergency response procedures, staff take into consideration information from multiple sources, including our partner providers, local law enforcement agencies, consulates and embassies, and international travel advisories, as well as from their own experience and expertise. The Student Life and Development Department and university governance will be in charge of implementing the Emergency Plan.
For their own safety, students should carefully read and familiarize themselves with the information contained here. In the event of an emergency, it is important to be aware of all safety procedures and protocols so as to be able to act in a prompt and safe manner.
All changes or updates to the Emergency Response plan will be communicated to students via email.
The university monitors and receives updated notifications regarding official travel advisories. If a Travel Warning is issued by local or home authorities, we will alert students via email within 48 hours.
Everything you need to know
Student Manual
The Student Manual is a guide designed to support students in their host cities, covering essential topics like student services, local living, health services, housing, academic guidelines and cultural integration.
