Dear Florence Parents, Friends and Family,
Greetings from sunny Florence!
The staff and I are so pleased to have all the students here safe and sound. Everyone arrived on time Friday, and, after they were greeted at the residence, each student enjoyed a buffet lunch with fresh paninis and beverages, before taking some time to rest and unpack. Then we enjoyed a group dinner at a restaurant just two steps away from Palazzo Vecchio, after which we gave the students a walking tour of the main piazzas in the city center.
Saturday morning was our program orientation. During this very important first meeting, we covered the program rules, safety procedures, and practical information about life in Florence. We passed out cell phones, gave tips on navigating our neighborhood, and even talked about ways to stay hydrated and cool during these very hot first days.
This afternoon brought with it the option to have some free time to explore the San Lorenzo Market and the neighborhood. A couple of hours later, we decided to get refreshed at the pool before our pizza night at a real Italian pizza place! 
Everyone is smiling and excited, enjoying all that Florence has to offer, and we are very impressed at how quickly everyone is acclimating to life abroad.
On Sunday, we will actually become real Fiorentini and will travel by bus to the hilltop town of Fiesole! This will be our first day trip together!
-Anastasia Valecce