What to know before THEY go… Where I am sending my child? What will they be doing in Florence? Will they be healthy? Will they be safe? How can I stay in contact with them/make them stay in contact with me? What is my role in all of this?

Where? Florence! Partnership with Istituto Lorenzo de’Medici Urban Campus – Spread out across 13 buildings in the Centro Storico Average Class Size: 15-20 Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1 Faculty: Approximately 180

What will they be doing? This is an Academic Experience! Classes Field trips Studying

What will they be doing? Living! Social Life Travel

Health and Safety GeoBlue Insurance English speaking doctors Emergency staff contact 24 Hour patrol around main piazzas Marist Freshman housing evening security guard Academic buildings require a security code Eating Healthy Alcohol

Staying in contact… They are in complete control of their schedule!! Mandatory Phone Communication Plan – Whatsapp, skype etc Emergency phone Visiting

The Parent’s Role Culture Shock Context, context, context Venting versus asking for help Resist the urge to clear the way for them Encourage them to reach out for support in Florence FERPA - Family Education Rights and Privacy Act