Program Directed by
Andrew Manzella
If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!
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Join us in Tuscany for an insider’s experience of Italy on this Pre-College summer program for high school students. Based in Siena—a stunning, walled medieval city in the heart of the Tuscan countryside and home to the University of Siena—broaden your horizons with in-depth, field-based seminars ranging from Italian Language to Farm-to-Table. Choose a seminar and—with the nooks of Piazza del Campo or golden hills as your backdrop—dive deep into your subject matter through engaging discussions, site visits, excursions to Florence and Rome, and hands-on projects that immerse you in Italian life.
Our Pre-College instructors are accomplished academically and professionally. They bring to each seminar deep content knowledge and experience in their field, as well as enthusiasm for their subjects, a passion for teaching, and a proven capacity to connect with and inspire students. They are dedicated and caring individuals who also live in dormitories with students, sharing in their lives and fully participating in extracurricular activities.
Our Pre-College instructors are accomplished academically and professionally. They bring to each seminar deep content knowledge and experience in their field, as well as enthusiasm for their subjects, a passion for teaching, and a proven capacity to connect with and inspire students. They are dedicated and caring individuals who also live in dormitories with students, sharing in their lives and fully participating in extracurricular activities.
Nestled in Tuscany, Siena exudes medieval charm with its well-preserved Gothic architecture, including the stunning Siena Cathedral and iconic Piazza del Campo. Wandering its streets, you'll encounter The University of Sienna's historic buildings scattered among artisan shops, quaint trattorias, and lively markets. Siena's warm ambiance and artistic heritage, combined with the rich academic mission of the university, create an enchanting Italian experience where time seems to stand still, inviting you to savor its cultural and intellectual richness.
Italian is the official language of Italy.
Summer weather in Italy is generally hot. Average daytime temperatures range from 80–95°F (27–35°C), while average nighttime temperatures range from 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Italian cuisine, celebrated worldwide, is a harmonious blend of simplicity and quality ingredients. In Siena, traditional Tuscan flavors shine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Sample dishes like ribollita (vegetable soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup), and Chianina beef. Siena is also known for its delectable sweets, such as ricciarelli (almond cookies) and panforte (fruit and nut cake). Tuscan olive oil, and fresh pasta dishes like pici (thick spaghetti) complete the culinary experience.
Nestled in Tuscany, Siena exudes medieval charm with its well-preserved Gothic architecture, including the stunning Siena Cathedral and iconic Piazza del Campo. Wandering its streets, you'll encounter The University of Sienna's historic buildings scattered among artisan shops, quaint trattorias, and lively markets. Siena's warm ambiance and artistic heritage, combined with the rich academic mission of the university, create an enchanting Italian experience where time seems to stand still, inviting you to savor its cultural and intellectual richness.
Italian is the official language of Italy.
Summer weather in Italy is generally hot. Average daytime temperatures range from 80–95°F (27–35°C), while average nighttime temperatures range from 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Italian cuisine, celebrated worldwide, is a harmonious blend of simplicity and quality ingredients. In Siena, traditional Tuscan flavors shine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Sample dishes like ribollita (vegetable soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup), and Chianina beef. Siena is also known for its delectable sweets, such as ricciarelli (almond cookies) and panforte (fruit and nut cake). Tuscan olive oil, and fresh pasta dishes like pici (thick spaghetti) complete the culinary experience.
Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:
In the historic Tuscan city of Siena, education and academic excellence have been woven into the fabric of daily life for centuries. Founded in 1240, the University of Siena is a prominent part of civic life. Immerse yourself in city and academy life, meet with artisans and professionals, venture for field visits to surrounding towns and areas, and find inspiration in Siena’s global, inclusive community.
The Pre-College Tuscany program is designed to immerse students intellectually in their chosen seminar topic as they prepare academically and socially for the college experience. Over the course of a two-week Pre-College seminar, each student develops a final project based on their particular interests, which they present to peers and instructors at the end of the program. Prepare an Italian feast to share with your group, present a case study from your business seminar, or display your photography of Siena’s architectural wonders.
Head to neighboring Florence to visit the Medici Museum and the Uffizi, attend a classical concert in the Piazza del Campo, or explore local vintage and antique shops. Taste as many flavors of gelato as your heart desires and climb the iconic Torre del Manga. Cool off in the Mediterranean Sea on a day trip to the coastal town of Sea Castiglione della Pescaia. Cap off your Tuscan experience with two days in Rome.
In addition to your in-depth seminar, explore other interests and topics in elective workshops offered by instructors and students alike. Tap into the unique knowledge, skills, and abilities of your peers and instructors to expand your Pre-College experience, learning on topics ranging from the regional differences in Italian cuisine to the architecture of Siena.
Gain inspiration from the experiences and perspectives of industry leaders and professionals. Guest speakers bring to the program diverse backgrounds with high-level, real-world experiences and insights. Whether a renowned chef or a professional photographer, each speaker structures their workshop or lecture to relate to the seminars and their area of expertise.
Find a community of like-minded peers, invested in personal and intellectual growth. Like you, they are curious about the world and eager to have a positive impact on it. Everyone attends Community Meeting each evening, where the group shares ideas, successes, and goals, and sets plans for the coming day. Become part of a community that supports and nurtures your interests, and make lasting friendships along the way.
Students and residential faculty stay together in Siena, based in a small locally-run hotel in private doubles, or triples, each with bathrooms ensuite or on the hall. Faculty and staff members reside with students throughout the program. We begin each day with breakfast at our residence. Lunches are taken in the array of restaurants, cafes, and markets among the cobblestoned streets, and dinners are served at the University of Siena dining hall or out in the restaurants around the city. Please note that lunches are not included in the tuition.
Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:
In the historic Tuscan city of Siena, education and academic excellence have been woven into the fabric of daily life for centuries. Founded in 1240, the University of Siena is a prominent part of civic life. Immerse yourself in city and academy life, meet with artisans and professionals, venture for field visits to surrounding towns and areas, and find inspiration in Siena’s global, inclusive community.
The Pre-College Tuscany program is designed to immerse students intellectually in their chosen seminar topic as they prepare academically and socially for the college experience. Over the course of a two-week Pre-College seminar, each student develops a final project based on their particular interests, which they present to peers and instructors at the end of the program. Prepare an Italian feast to share with your group, present a case study from your business seminar, or display your photography of Siena’s architectural wonders.
Head to neighboring Florence to visit the Medici Museum and the Uffizi, attend a classical concert in the Piazza del Campo, or explore local vintage and antique shops. Taste as many flavors of gelato as your heart desires and climb the iconic Torre del Manga. Cool off in the Mediterranean Sea on a day trip to the coastal town of Sea Castiglione della Pescaia. Cap off your Tuscan experience with two days in Rome.
In addition to your in-depth seminar, explore other interests and topics in elective workshops offered by instructors and students alike. Tap into the unique knowledge, skills, and abilities of your peers and instructors to expand your Pre-College experience, learning on topics ranging from the regional differences in Italian cuisine to the architecture of Siena.
Gain inspiration from the experiences and perspectives of industry leaders and professionals. Guest speakers bring to the program diverse backgrounds with high-level, real-world experiences and insights. Whether a renowned chef or a professional photographer, each speaker structures their workshop or lecture to relate to the seminars and their area of expertise.
Find a community of like-minded peers, invested in personal and intellectual growth. Like you, they are curious about the world and eager to have a positive impact on it. Everyone attends Community Meeting each evening, where the group shares ideas, successes, and goals, and sets plans for the coming day. Become part of a community that supports and nurtures your interests, and make lasting friendships along the way.
Students and residential faculty stay together in Siena, based in a small locally-run hotel in private doubles, or triples, each with bathrooms ensuite or on the hall. Faculty and staff members reside with students throughout the program. We begin each day with breakfast at our residence. Lunches are taken in the array of restaurants, cafes, and markets among the cobblestoned streets, and dinners are served at the University of Siena dining hall or out in the restaurants around the city. Please note that lunches are not included in the tuition.
If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!
If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!
Providing immersive summer travel programs for middle & high school students since 1951.