Courses Offered In:
Italy Pre-College Program for Teens
Study abroad in Florence, one of Europe’s most beautiful and historically rich cities. Filled with amazing art, world-class restaurants, and breathtaking scenery, it’s no wonder Florence is such a preeminent student travel destination. This Italy Pre-College Program is designed to prepare high school students for the academic and personal challenges that come with the transition to college while also experiencing an unforgettable summer discovering Italy. What’s more, you’ll have the chance to meet new people and create lasting friendships in a tight-knit group environment. This summer program provides a true taste of the college experience with a unique balance of independence and structure for high school students, where learning happens both in the classroom and beyond!
This is the 14-day version of this Florence high school summer program. There are also 21-day and 28-day versions available.
About This Program
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What It's Like
Experience college life with the balance of engaging courses, group excursions, and free time.
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Certificate of Completion
Receive a letter certifying the completion of your courses. Letters of recommendation are also available.
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Exclusive Classes
All classes are private to Westcoast Connection students only.
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Engaging Instructors
Courses taught by experienced university-level faculty, instructors, and local professionals.
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Accommodations
The Social Hub Florence Residence
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Athletic Facilities
Complimentary access to a state-of-the-art gym and rooftop pool.
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Meals
Includes breakfast and dinner daily. Enjoy a variety of options at nearby cafés and local restaurants.
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Excursions
Exciting day trips are included.
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Transportation
Private motor coach and public transportation.
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Dietary Options
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
Program Highlights
- • Day trips to Cinque Terre, Pisa, and Viareggio.
- • Choose from a variety of engaging courses.
- • Cool off in the outdoor rooftop pool or workout.
- • Explore Florence highlights during Student’s Choice.
- • Live in the modern, chic Social Hub Florence Residence
- • Climb to the top of the Duomo for incredible city views.
- • Meet and make new friends while studying abroad.
- • Marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece, The David.
Courses
Activities
Typical Weekday Schedule
Choose one morning course and enjoy afternoon highlights.
College Life
The Social Hub, Florence
This historic palazzo recently reconstructed into a hotel is not your typical dorm. The Social Hub Florence is just a short walk to Florence’s Duomo and is surrounded by cafés, boutiques and parks. Rooms are single occupancy and feature air conditioning, flat-screen TV’s, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms and personal work stations. This hotel also includes laundry facilities, a game room, 24/7 security as well as a coffee shop, restaurant and “pop-up” food booths. Click here to be “WOWed” by our residence.
Stay Active: Gym & Pool
Receive complimentary access to The Social Hub Florence’s incredible state-of-the-art gym and awesome rooftop pool with expansive views of the city.
Positive Social Experience
This program is designed to give you a taste of the excitement and independence you will experience in college. Just like in college, you will be part of a large group of students, live in a residence, and have your choice of classes. And like in college, you will enjoy a warm, family environment within your residence where you enjoy many opportunities to socialize with other students.
Prestigious Academic Partners
We have partnered with some of the finest teaching institutions in Florence to bring you the best selection of engaging courses possible. Our university-level courses are taught at the state-of-the-art teaching facilities of Leonardo da Vinci School of Art and Culture and Florence University of The Arts. Cooking is taught at In Tavola Cooking School, a cutting-edge culinary school just steps from the Ponte Vecchio.
More Details
Frequently Asked Questions
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Will attending one of your programs help me get into college?
Attending a summer program is an incredible opportunity to learn and grow into a more well-rounded, mature individual. No matter what type of program you choose, the personal development and experience gained over the course of the summer are valuable resources that could help you with your college essays and applications. If your goal for the summer is to get a head start on college prep, a Career Experience or Pre-College Enrichment program could be just what you need. So while attending any particular summer program will not necessarily get you into your choice school, what you get from it can make a difference!
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Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
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When do I choose my courses?
For fall enrollments, we will send you a course choice preference form around November 10. You will be able to select your first and second course preferences. Your course choices will be confirmed in the spring.
For enrollments after November 10, we will send you a course choice preference form upon receipt of your application for enrollment. Your course choices will be confirmed in the spring.