Blending Magazine Proudly Presents: Underground Florence

In the early weeks of 2025, a new idea was born for the Spring Issue of Blending Magazine. Through the minds of professors Alessandro Calonego, David Andre Weiss, and Alex Klein they developed this semester’s theme of Underground Florence. The goal of Blending is always to urge students to engage within the local community, immerse themselves culturally, and learn in a practical environment, in which this theme only further stimulated.

 

All the way back in January, professors Calonego, Weiss, and Klein involved The American University of Florence (AUF)’s full-time photography students and FUA’s Journalism study abroad students in a month-long project to jumpstart the magazine. During these weeks, students interviewed and took photos of the likes of Gimmy Tranquillo from Controradio, local musician Lorenzo Hugolini, and the pillar of the underground scene: Bruno Casini. Through this month-long project, our students set a new precedent and level of work for the rest to follow.

 

The work of Blending Magazine truly begins in the early weeks of March, when the spring semester starts. Already having developed three articles for the magazine back in January through the interviews with Tranquillo, Hugolini, and Casini, both professors and students involved in courses dedicated to the Blending Magazine were able to understand the level we wanted to achieve this semester. Additionally this spring, students were involved more than ever, directly communicating with the communications office, running ideas and proposals by the magazine team, and working through many edits from abstract proposals, rough drafts, to the final copy that is presented before you today.

 

In today’s current digital climate it is more easy than ever to utilize online sources such as ChatGPT, Wikipedia, and Google Search results as a student; and more difficult than ever for professors to determine what is organically student-written and what is not. We wanted to develop a theme for this magazine that pushed students to pull themselves away from the screen and engage within the local community. To discover Florence from a brand new perspective; not through a google search. The theme of Underground Florence did just that. Through the test-run in January, engaging students in sit-down interviews, we saw immediate results. Then moving into March, this momentum only built further. Students displayed genuine interest, visiting local jewelers, cafes, record shops, speaking to passerby on the streets, all looking for genuine, organic stories from Florence’s past and current underground scene.

 

As you read through this magazine, you will notice most, if not every article includes a genuine lived experience, or a sit-down interview with Florentine locals. When the Blending faculty team sat down in January and created this idea of Underground Florence, that was their bold vision: to develop a magazine filled with lived and true experiences that our students could take with them for the rest of their lives. Students this semester were able to discover Florence from a brand new, fresh perspective, and gain invaluable experience engaging with our local community.

 

To put it all in perspective, this semester a total of 14 courses were involved in the production of Blending Magazine. A special thanks is necessary to Nora Ferrucci for creating the new layout template for the students to work off of and coordinating interviews for students. Additionally, special thanks are in order for this semester's additional course instructors, Marco Gualtieri, Lapo Morgantini, Beatrice Compani, Silvia Giani, Federica Forti, Michael Howerton, and Valeria Faraoni. Without their involvement and coordination with their students, this magazine would not exist.

 

As you read through Blending Magazine’s Spring Issue: Underground Florence, we hope that it brings you, the reader, the same sense of joy and excitement as it brings us. The students this semester truly went above and beyond. Whether it be through pouring their creativity into writing, further developing their classmates’ work as proofreaders, or bringing the articles and spreads to life as photographers and graphic designers, every role was essential to bringing the theme of Underground Florence to fruition.

 

Click here to read the latest issue!

Florence University of the Arts Experiential Field Learning Destinations offer immersive Italian Cultural Education

Florence University of the Arts (FUA) offers a unique approach to education with its Experiential Field Learning (EFL) destinations. These activities are designed to push students to explore and learn by taking them to experience important landmarks and locations around Italy. 

 

The EFL department offers students multiple different types of trips such as one-day destinations, or weekend activities. No matter which trip a student attends, they can be sure to experience the intricacies of Italy.

 

Mariana Di Labbio has been working as the EFL Coordinator for FUA for two years. Her job is to organize and manage the experiential field learning activities. While the trips offer students a nice advantage in exploring Italy, students also can gain genuine in-depth knowledge of the location from teachers. “I think that cultural integration, maybe, could be one of the main objectives, which is also in line with the FUA mission in general,” explains  Di Labbio. 

 

Di Labbio adds that the EFL trips truly build engagement “… you can also have the chance to see some hidden aspects of Italian culture, because we not only offer, for example, Milan or Turin or Rome, which are big cities, but also smaller towns in Tuscany.” 

 

One major advantage of EFL is that it offers a safe and comfortable way to explore Italy. “Sometimes we have students that are for the first time in Europe or out of the country,

so maybe they want to travel, they want to explore, but they don't feel comfortable doing that alone… doing this kind of activity through FUA, it's a good chance also to break the ice and start feeling more comfortable,” says  Di Labbio.

 

Besides just the comfortability of having educated staff running the experience, the academic structuring of the tours is a major benefit for students. “Thanks to FUA leaders that will be with the group, and usually FUA instructors that manage the tours… students can join the experience in a different way from what they could do going there by themselves,” assures  Di Labbio.

 

Staff is typically chosen based on their relations to the specific destinations.  Di Labbio adds, “If a destination includes more artistic or art history topics, we select an art history instructor. If, on the other hand, it includes, for example, more culinary topics, we select one of our chefs or one of our Apicius members.” Apicius is a world-renowned culinary program offered through the university.

 

Students can find information about the destinations in program packets and learn about them when selecting specific classes with an EFL component. The program is also a great way for students to step outside of their comfort zone while studying abroad. In summer one-day excursions are offered, while the fall and spring offer weekend trips. Another wonderful thing about these trips is that they engage students with places that they may want to return to. Establishing comfort is an amazing thing that FUA does. The fun thing about the summer day trips is that they are shorter, and it is typically an easy place to travel to in a short amount of time. 

 

The trips are seamless and enjoyable, but take a tremendous amount of preparation and organization. Di Labbio added, “Most of my work is about logistics, so designing part of EFL is made by the academic office.” EFL works directly with the academic office to ensure that trips go according to plan. 

 

Di Labbio added that depending on the season, the trips may vary. For instance, “A walking tour during spring is much more bearable than in July,” says Di Labbio. This is a factor that goes into planning events and this attention to detail sets EFL apart from tourist oriented trips. A walking tour in Rome might go better in the fall and spring than it would in summer. The same goes for places that might be colder in winter and more bearable in spring or summer. These aspects can enlighten students on the Italian weather patterns as well, which can be beneficial if they decide to travel on their own. The EFL destination trips are valuable in a multifaceted way. 

 

To learn more about EFL and sign up for the next trip, visit the Student Life & Development Website today!

FLY Students Celebrate Creativity with Liberty Fabrics

To close out the Spring 2025 semester, FLY – Fashion Loves You hosted a fashion show in the stunning Sala Rosa Conference Room at Corso Tintori, 21, with Liberty Fabrics at the heart of its inspiration. The project began after a conversation with Odette Moncur, Liberty’s Creative Planning Manager, which led to the donation of a selection of Liberty’s fabrics to Florence University of the Arts (FUA). The various phases of the project were then supported throughout by Sara Sciosci, Liberty’s Trade Marketing Manager. The initiative showcases Liberty’s ongoing commitment to collaborating with universities and sharing its design expertise with emerging creatives.

 

Liberty Fabrics, founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty on Regent Street in London, has built its reputation on original prints, fine textiles, and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. From its iconic Tana Lawn™ cotton and luxurious silk to lightweight linen and innovative digital prints made in its Lake Como mill, Liberty’s collections draw on a 50,000‑strong archive of hand‑drawn artworks spanning the Arts and Crafts movement to contemporary collaborations. Celebrating its 150th anniversary, Liberty partnered with select universities, FUA among them, on a global project that gave rise to this semester’s fashion show.

 

By enrolling in FUA’s Fashion Show Production, Coordination, and Promotion course and participating in this semester's fashion show, study abroad student Natalie Berger gained firsthand insight into her future career path. She appreciated the show’s hands-on format, noting, “Everybody had very similar ideas, everybody was easy to work with and that just made life easier.” Berger helped manage styling, outfit selections, model pairings, studio photography, transitions, and even hair and makeup. 

 

Beyond Berger and her classmates’ involvement, the production drew on several specialist courses, such as students from Advanced Fashion Photography managing lighting, angles, and editorial framing of the event. Many classmates, friends, and family showed up to support, even including Liberty Fabrics VIPs, which raised the stakes.

 

Reflecting on the semester, Berger praised her professor, Cristina Ferro, for the insightful connections between the course and the final project. One of the biggest obstacles was coordinating models, considering the multiple schedules of the individuals involved such as fellow classmates. Still, the team came together to make it happen. The experience gave students real insight into being creative directors and producers in a professional setting.

 

Ferro considered the show an invaluable learning opportunity, noting her students grew into independent, responsible, and creative professionals and forged lasting connections: “It’s always very sad when we leave,” she shared, “but we still keep in touch.” For her, the experience was about more than fashion—it embodied growth, collaboration, and the enduring power of education. She was proud of how they managed transitions between Liberty Fabrics’ styles. As the fabrics returned to the archive, students carried with them an appreciation for textiles as storytelling canvases, demonstrating how Liberty’s 150‑year heritage continues to inspire fresh creativity in contemporary fashion.

FLY - Fashion Loves You Fashion Show: Coming Wednesday, May 7

This week, FLY - Fashion Loves You students will be hosting a fashion show to cap off the Spring semester. The fashion show will take place at Corso Tintori, 21, inside the Sala Rosa classroom on Wednesday, May 7 at 7:45 pm, in collaboration with Liberty Fabrics. Throughout the semester, FUA students have been deeply involved in developing the fashion show into a successful production. They have had opportunities to learn about management, practice the early stages of fashion production, and work their way up to the final touches, also known as the merchandising selection, which will ultimately be displayed. In sum, students have gained valuable merchandising skills they can showcase on their resumes.

 

While speaking with Christina Ferro, one of professors involved in the upcoming fashion show, she mentioned the importance of how fashion has changed over the years. She reflected on the beauty of past fashion eras but acknowledged how much has changed, noting that her students have helped her see this evolution. Ferro believes fashion has become more modern and inclusive, and she describes her students as hardworking and aware of their role in today’s industry. Also, Ferro stated how much she enjoys teaching fashion industry management classes. She is a stylist herself, but she doesn’t teach fashion as much as she helps students with marketing, management, and behind-the-scenes work. The intriguing thing is that the students are running the fashion show, with Ferro taking a very behind-the-scenes approach to the show.

 

Sitting in class, I learned that the upcoming fashion show will center on Liberty UK’s spirit of unique creativity, with students embracing a boho-jungle theme for their designs. I sat in class with show production and coordination, who are in charge of the behind-the-scenes, making sure the show goes according to plan. The main takeaway for Wednesday's upcoming fashion show, and all FUA events, is that professors guide the students, while students are then in charge of the show.

 

In addition to the show, FUA photography students will be in attendance for a full-blown photo shoot. This will give students a chance to orient themselves and orchestrate every detail in real-time, allowing for a multifaceted real-world environment. This includes anything from the selection of the back display to the model’s directives and assigned poses. A team of aspiring makeup artists is collaborating with the design students, and the experimentation will include bold color palettes and textural accents that complement each look. Additionally, the students will be tasked with styling skirts to complement their designs, sourcing pieces from both vintage markets and contemporary boutiques. Finding pieces that capture the boho-jungle aesthetic will be key. This fashion show involves many hands-on elements, and on Wednesday night, everything from makeup and hair to wardrobe choices will showcase the students' remarkable creativity and teamwork. Ferro said, “Having the designs and models ready would be difficult to have by the time the fashion rehearsal comes around, so working diligently is key.”

 

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to support your peers and experience firsthand the creativity and hard work that goes into every look. Join us on Wednesday, May 7, at 7:45 p.m. in Sala Rosa (Corso Tintori 21) to see the FLY students’ boho-jungle designs come to life. Whether you’re passionate about fashion, curious to see Liberty UK’s influence on the runway, or simply looking for an inspiring evening, this show promises something for everyone. Grab a friend, bring your enthusiasm, and be part of a celebration of style, innovation, and student talent—see you at the show!

New Program Location: La Spezia, Liguria

Florence University of the Arts is pleased to introduce its Cinque Terre & Riviera Program in La Spezia. Located on Italy’s northern coast, students study in a working port city surrounded by the Alps and Mediterranean. Nearby are the famous Cinque Terre villages and the “Gulf of Poets,” made famous by writers such as Shelley and Byron.

 

Academic Focus

Choose between a three-week term, a full semester or a two-city option that combines La Spezia and Florence. All courses are taught in English by Italian and international faculty. You can mix and match up to six classes in areas such as Mediterranean studies, marine and environmental sciences, engineering, business and supply chain, writing and fine arts, digital media and design, or hospitality and wine studies. Local internships are available to put classroom theory into practice.

Experiential Learning

• Hands on projects and internships at industry hubs or local design studios
• On-site advisors, wellness workshops and a 24 hour emergency line to support you outside the classroom

Location Highlights

La Spezia is Liguria’s regional hub, with easy train and bus connections. Florence is two hours away, Genoa 75 minutes, and Pisa’s airport is 45 minutes by train. The pedestrianized center is home to the Naval Museum, CAMeC contemporary art center, and lively piazzas. Ferries run daily to Cinque Terre and nearby islands.

Housing & Student Life

Options include shared apartments, dormitories or host-family stays. All students receive an orientation, counseling and access to FUA’s 24 hour hotline. Expect a coastal lifestyle with local markets, fresh seafood and a close-knit international community.

Ready to study where the mountains meet the sea? Visit the Cinque Terre & Riviera Program page or contact FUA Admissions for details on sessions, courses and how to apply.

 

Education and Field Engagement

FUA course meets grassroots orgs, immerses students in two real‐world sessions preventing gender violence, translating theory into impactful community action.

 

written by Costanza Gori — MeToo and Sexual Harassment Course Instructor

 

Bridging the gap between students and the local social landscape, and creating structured opportunities for dialogue between classroom and community—this is one of the core priorities of Florence University of the Arts (FUA), which places real-world engagement at the heart of its educational philosophy. Within this framework lies the interdisciplinary course #MeToo and Sexual Harassment, taught by Professor Costanza Gori in the Department of Psychology. As part of this course, the instructor has expanded the academic experience beyond the traditional classroom setting, organizing two mornings of immersive meetings with a variety of grassroots organizations—each committed to combating gender-based violence and challenging harmful stereotypes.

 

This expanded format reflects a clear intention: to offer students a broader, more multifaceted perspective by encouraging direct engagement with a diverse range of approaches, languages, and working methods. From this idea came two distinct encounters, thoughtfully designed as an integral part of the academic program.

 

The first meeting, held on March 26 at Spazio Co-Stanza, brought together three unique initiatives, each with its own methodology but united by a common goal: to make sex and relationship education a tool for awareness, critical thinking, and the promotion of both individual and collective well-being. This event provided students with the opportunity to explore contemporary, socially grounded approaches that translate complex content into educational practices that are both accessible and relevant to everyday life.

 

Re.Vulva is a collective founded in Prato in 2022, made up mostly of professionals in sexual health. It promotes a sex-positive, inclusive, and intersectional model of sex and relationship education through public events, training programs, and group reflection. Among its flagship activities are Comfort Zone, a program designed for parents and caregivers; a monthly Autocoscienza (self-awareness) group held on the first Thursday of every month; and a variety of educational events featuring guest speakers who address key aspects of sexual well-being. Re.Vulva actively collaborates with local associations, collectives, and institutions, building networks of shared care and community dialogue. One of its key goals is to raise awareness and promote access to the Internal Condom (Femidom)—a device still relatively unknown and difficult to obtain in Italy—which the collective distributes free of charge at its events.

 

La Clit – Coffee, Literature, Ispiration and (sex) Toys is a Florence-based project launched in 2024 by Francesca De Gaudio and Giulia Heuser, aimed at creating safe, informed spaces to talk about sexuality, pleasure, and well-being. The project operates on two fronts: hosting events and workshops with experts on various sexuality-related topics, and curating a selection of high-quality pleasure toys and sexual wellness products—chosen for their safety, sustainability, ethical sourcing, and alignment with queer values. Alongside its e-commerce platform, La Clit has launched a pop-up phase, with events hosted in local bookstores, cultural spaces, and cafés. The founders, who are also trained sexual educators, promote an inclusive and critical approach that challenges stereotypes and uplifts the value of the body, pleasure, and sexual health.

 

Italy Needs Sex Education is a nationwide campaign advocating for the introduction of mandatory sex and relationship education in Italian schools. Through a public petition and outreach initiatives, the project seeks to foster a more just, inclusive, and aware society by addressing topics such as gender-based violence prevention, STI awareness, and overall well-being. Founded by Flavia Restivo and supported by organizations like Rise Up and Futurevox, the campaign draws on a network of professionals to raise awareness and promote systemic change in Italian education.

The second event will take place on April 16 at Casa delle Donne di Firenze, where students will meet six local organizations actively working to combat gender-based violence and promote social justice. This is far more than a passive learning opportunity; it is a central part of the course structure, offering direct interaction with professionals and activists who confront complex realities daily using practical tools and interdisciplinary expertise. Though different in history, structure, and methodology, these organizations share a common goal: to carry out daily, grassroots work that combines action, support, and social transformation.

 

Informadonna is a service run by Informagiovani del Comune di Firenze, dedicated to supporting women of all ages and backgrounds. It provides personalized guidance on employment, education, and pathways to independence, with the goal of fostering professional reintegration, personal development, and empowerment. Twice a month, it hosts a Job Club, a peer support group for women seeking employment. The service also organizes events, workshops, and cultural initiatives in collaboration with local organizations, helping to build an active network around gender issues and promoting the sharing of rights, knowledge, and opportunities. It maintains a map of local services and helps direct users to relevant public and private resources.

 

La Mia Ostetrica APS was founded in Florence in 2010 to provide competent, continuous, and personalized support to women and families during the most transformative moments of life. In 2021, it became a Promozione Sociale (APS) association, reinforcing its commitment in the educational, social, and health sectors. Central to its mission is the Casa dei 1000 Giorni—a symbolic and functional space for welcoming, caring for, and supporting families during the child’s early years and the transition into parenthood. The initiative integrates midwifery, psychological, and educational expertise to provide coordinated support, listening, and education. The association offers tailored programs across every stage of a woman’s life, focusing on menstrual health, sexuality and natural contraception, menopause, reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum care, and parenting. Special attention is given to the protection of birth rights and the prevention of obstetric violence, advocating for respectful, person-centered care. It is part of the Casa delle Donne di Firenze network, sharing its values and dedication to promoting rights, health, and well-being.

 

Resto Io is an association founded in Florence in 2019 with the goal of preventing and addressing gender-based violence, particularly psychological, domestic, physical, and economic abuse. It operates through an interdisciplinary team and promotes a culture of awareness through workshops, trainings, and outreach programs, mainly in schools of all levels but also for the general public, companies, and professionals. The association focuses on helping people develop a clear understanding of what violence is, so they can recognize and confront it. Particularly active in vocational and technical schools, Resto Io pays close attention to the cultural and relational dimensions of violence prevention. Since 2024, it has been part of the Casa delle Donne di Firenze network.

 

Azione Gay e Lesbica is one of Florence’s longest-running LGBTQIA+ organizations, active for over thirty years in promoting rights, quality of life, and the fight against gender-based violence and homolesbobitransphobic discrimination. The organization offers legal, psychological, and family mediation services, and runs educational and awareness programs in schools and throughout the community. It also manages one of Italy’s largest LGBTQI+ documentation centers and publishes materials focused on lesbian and feminist culture. A founding member of Toscana Pride, the organization has also been organizing Pride Park—a political and cultural community space—for over 25 years.

 

Nosotras Onlus is an intercultural association of Italian and migrant women active in Florence since 1998. It promotes women’s empowerment and gender and citizenship rights through listening services, shelters, training programs, and regional and international projects. It works to combat gender-based violence—including female genital mutilation and economic abuse—and is part of the national REAMA network. The organization is also active in anti-discrimination efforts, coordinating help desks and awareness campaigns against racism and intersecting forms of discrimination. It provides training for schools, healthcare professionals, social services, and law enforcement.

 

DonneXStrada is an association founded in 2021 with the mission of increasing safety in public spaces and restoring women’s right to move freely without fear. It operates through a nationwide network of psychologists, lawyers, and gynecologists, and created the Punti Viola initiative—businesses trained to welcome and assist people in distress. The association develops educational, training, and advocacy projects against gender-based violence and discrimination, working closely with public institutions. It also helped design Viola Walk Home, an app that enables users to be virtually accompanied in real time along routes considered potentially unsafe.

 

These two events are not just extracurricular additions; they are a fundamental expression of FUA’s teaching philosophy: a space where knowledge and lived experience intersect, where the classroom meets the city, and where students engage directly with those working every day to create social change.

Walking Through History

On a rainy evening, Fine Arts Professor, Caleb England, led FUA students on an educational walk through areas of Florence that often go unexplored by tourists and students alike.

 

written by Charlotte Cicero for SPEL: Journalism

 

After meeting on the Ponte Vecchio, over 15 students, armed with umbrellas, walked with Fine Arts Professor, Caleb England as he spoke about the history of some of Florence’s smallest neighborhoods and the large historical events that took place there. From passing by the oldest church in Florence, visiting areas that inspired the works of Pablo Picasso, to walking down streets that bore witness to key moments in World War II, students gained a newfound appreciation for the deep and layered history of their temporary home.

 

At Palazzo Pitti, England informed students about the history of the palace. “It’s the most expensive palace in the city…. the duke's wife purchased it, one of the most incredible things about it is the Boboli Gardens that it’s connected to. It’s an incredibly beautiful place.” The Boboli Gardens, which sit behind the palace, are known for their intricate landscaping, sculptures, and historical significance, making the gardens a key feature of Florence’s cultural heritage.

 

“When the Duke and his wife got married, they had [the gardens] flooded, and they had pirate ship battles in the backyard,” he mentioned. Caroline Sepe, an FUA student, was stunned to hear about this side of the Pitti Palace’s history. “Who would’ve thought someone with so many riches would flood a garden to be able to have a pirate competition in their backyard…  that’s so weird and cool.”

 

The surprises didn’t stop there. England casually added, “Also Bernardo Buontalenti invented gelato for that wedding.” Leaving the students in shock as England continued the walk.

 

As the walk progressed onto Via Sguazza, England shared, “This is where the model for the Mona Lisa lived. Over on this tiny little side street in an artisan neighborhood.” The interesting anecdote sparked conversations amongst the students, many of whom had never considered the everyday lives of the figures behind famous artworks.

 

Later, making it over to Santo Spirito, England pointed to a building, saying, “That’s where the inventor of the telephone grew up. Not Alexander Graham Bell, the Italian man who actually invented the telephone.” Referring to the lesser-known history of Antonio Meucci, the true pioneer of the telephone. One student made a joke about how they had heard that reference on an episode of ‘The Sopranos’ before and then were now putting the historical puzzle pieces together. 

 

The tour continued to La Carmine, which England described as, “a pretty quiet neighborhood.” He explained how locals often gather in the piazza to celebrate special occasions. “Florentines come down to the Piazza to pop prosecco and celebrate graduations, weddings, engagements, and more,” he said, emphasizing the authenticity of the area’s restaurants, which remain largely untouched by tourism. 

 

At the final stop of the city walk, England took students to Piazza Tasso. “During World War II, those who fought the Nazi fascists would often meet here. Then word got out and [they] caught and murdered them. All the names of those who passed are on the plaque over there. I wanted to take you down here because this isn’t something you stumble across,” he explained. Many students, including myself, walked over to the plaque to read the names, reflecting on the sacrifices made by those who resisted oppression, and how important it is to learn about the historical culture of Florence. 

 

These city walks take place every Wednesday night from 8:45 to 9:45 PM and have different meeting points each night. FUA City Walks are a great way to meet other students, learn a little more about Florence, and get some exercise. Signup links are posted on myFUA one week before the event occurs. Whether rain or shine, the city walks continue to reveal Florence’s rich and often overlooked past, bringing history to life one step at a time.

Gentrification in Focus: A Global Perspective on Urban Change

Through immersive research and global discussions, students in  Gentrification: Urban and Social Inequality at Florence University of Arts explore complex forces shaping cities and the real world impact of urban change

 

written by Connor McHugh for SPEL: Journalism

 

Led by sociologist Federica Stagni, Gentrification: Urban and Social Inequality, is a discussion-based class offered at the Florence University of Arts. The course offers an immersive, ethnographic approach to understand the internal and external forces shaping cities across the world. Using a combination of research, lived experiences, and in-person qualitative observations, the course teaches students that gentrification is a multifaceted issue that requires a multifaceted response.

 

Unlike traditional lecture-based courses, the discussion is centered on interpersonal communication and critical thinking. “Most of the class is talking about our experiences with the topics,” explains Grace Elin, a sociology major from Boston. “We take notes, and there’s a bit of lecture, but the real focus is on hearing different perspectives from where people are from.”

 

The emphasis on discussion in class allows students to bring their own backgrounds into the classroom, which creates a more layered definition of gentrification that goes beyond the textbook. Stagni, who specializes in urban sociology, ensures that the class extends beyond the often ethnocentric approach of the United States. “Most students already have some knowledge of gentrification in the U.S., so I try to bring in a broader view, especially focusing on Europe and Italy,” she says.

 

One of the class’s most distinctive elements is its approach to qualitative research. Instead of merely reading about urban transformation, students witness it firsthand. “Today, we are going to Santissima Annunziata to have an ethnographic experience,” Stagni announces to the class. “We’ll observe how tourism and gentrification are impacting historical areas of Florence.” Ethnographic research involves studying people in their environments from a third-person perspective and following up with interviews. By engaging with real people and communities affected by gentrification, students are able to gain a deeper understanding of the forces that are reshaping Florence.

 

Stagni shares her own story of witnessing gentrification firsthand. She explains to the class how as a child, gathering in squares and plazas around a city was a crucial part of peer development and allowed for kids in the neighborhood to spend safe, quality time with one another. Fast forward to today, and the squares are filled with wide-eyed tourists looking for the best angle for their pictures. Native Italians are now finding it hard to engage with each other in the squares, especially in historical cities like Florence, which was once a crucial part of their culture.

 

The course explores the origins and evolution of gentrification. It begins with the term’s inception in 1964 by sociologist Ruth Glass, who used it to describe the transformation of working-class London neighborhoods, and then examines its present-day global meaning. Gentrification initially was seen as a process of urban renewal and growth, but has grown into a broader phenomenon that intersects economic policies, real estate speculation, and social displacement.

 

The discussion covers how gentrification manifests in different regions. From rapid gentrification in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C., to grassroots movements in Berlin and Barcelona attempting to stop rent hikes and speculative development.

 

In Latin America, tourism and foreign investment fuel gentrification in Mexico City and Buenos Aires. In Asia, government-led redevelopment displaces thousands in cities like Shanghai and Mumbai. Africa sees post-colonial urban restructuring and class divisions influencing gentrification in Cape Town and Nairobi. The varying nature of gentrification in these locations makes it clear that the process cannot be viewed as one-size-fits-all.

 

A recurring discussion in class revolves around whether gentrification must always lead to displacement. “Some scholars argue for a more nuanced approach where mixed-income housing and community engagement can foster inclusive development,” Stagni notes.

 

Students debate solutions such as rent control policies, land trusts, and affordable housing initiatives aimed at mitigating negative effects. While some cities have implemented regulations to protect residents from being pushed out, others have struggled to balance economic growth with social equity. Climate change and technology also enter the conversation. “Climate gentrification is another issue,” adds Stagni. 

 

“Wealthier populations are moving into areas less affected by climate change, further pushing out low-income residents,” she says. As rising sea levels and extreme weather reshape migration patterns, cities must grapple with new forms of displacement that extend beyond urban renewal.

 

For many students, this class is more than an academic requirement—it’s an eye-opening experience. “Back home in Boston, I only thought about gentrification in a local sense,” explains Elin. “But here, I’m seeing how it plays out globally.” The international nature of the class adds another layer of discussion as students from various backgrounds bring in examples from their own cities.

 

Stagni notes a high level of engagement in the course. “I teach other courses, but in this one, I see a special kind of involvement,” she says. “Students are interested in these contemporary issues, and this class fosters political consciousness about these topics.” By addressing gentrification through a sociological lens, the class encourages students to think critically about urban change and its consequences.

 

With the combination of its dynamic discussions and immersive research, this class exemplifies the power of education in addressing real-world issues. "We aren’t talking about abstract theories," Stagni emphasizes. "We’re discussing issues that affect people’s lives." As students continue their studies, they leave with not just a greater understanding of the topic, but a deeper awareness of the complexities of urban life and the power structures that shape it.

 

In a world where cities are constantly evolving, the conversation on gentrification is far from over. But for these students, this class offers a launching point that leads to them to think critically, engage with the world around them, and, perhaps one day, influence urban policies for the better.

Crafting Your Career: Mastering Personal Branding

At a recent FUA Career Center event, Dean of Students Mattia Delle Piane empowered students with practical tips on building a strong personal brand—from polishing social media profiles to perfecting resumes and cover letters for that dream job.

 

written by Guido Togliatti for SPEL: Journalism

 

Pursuing a career can be daunting for everyone. As part of Florence University of the Arts’ (FUA) Career Center activities, the university recently held an event for students on personal branding. Mattia Delle Piane, the Dean of Students, began the night by emphasizing that social media is key to building a personal brand in today's digital age.

 

He asked the audience what they thought of personal branding, and when no one answered right away, he advised, “Make sure your media platforms are clean.”

 

The discussion then moved on to keeping resumes brief and using cover letters as another tool to make a good impression in an interview. Before explaining their importance, Delle Piane asked if anyone knew the difference between a resume and a cover letter, and again the audience was unsure. He explained that job recruiters often struggle to understand the job they are interviewing for, so it is important to review the job description and highlight keywords.

 

The event continued with a focus on preparing for job interviews. Delle Piane stressed the importance of understanding the process and developing strong answers to interview questions. I could really feel how self-confidence plays a role in an interview. He also discussed whether it is helpful to ask questions during an interview. According to him, questions should be saved until the end to maintain a natural flow. Asking thoughtful job-related questions can show that you are engaged and curious about the company, and it can also help you seem more mature.

 

Delle Piane also underlined the value of researching a company before an interview. He used FUA’s mission, “Cultural integration and community building,” as an example. Knowing a company's mission and keywords can give you extra points in an interview and boost your chances of being hired.

 

The event went on to highlight the need for cover letters, which are considered by 50% of hiring managers. One audience member noted that cover letters should be mandatory. Delle Piane agreed, saying they are very helpful, even if the statistics on their usage vary. He mentioned that while only 20% of recruiters read cover letters, another study suggests that 56% of companies want applicants to attach them. It all depends on the job requirements and company expectations.

 

In his final point, Delle Piane reminded us that a dream job is something worth pursuing. The more interviews you do and the more practice you get, the closer you are to landing that job.

 

During the Q&A session, one question stood out about how to identify keywords in a job description. Delle Piane answered, “First, you want to read through the entire job description and then look at the company's goals. You want your goals to align with the company's.” The audience agreed and left feeling motivated to put these tips into practice.

Green Walks of Florence Transforms the Sidewalk into the Classroom

The Florence University of the Arts Green Walks Class makes the Historical Gardens of Florence the ultimate learning environment.

 

written by Tyler Kirwan for SPEL: Journalism

 

Catia Ballerini greets her students cheerily on the stone steps of a Piazza during a crisp, but sunny morning. A little groggy, but all the while intrigued, her students listen along to her recap of yesterday’s walk. Ballerini is prepared to teach her Green Walks of Florence class and neither the early time nor cool air can dim her joy.

 

The Green Walks of Florence Class offered by Florence University of the Arts (FUA), takes students on a journey through the many historical gardens and green spaces located within Florence, Italy. Ballerini is just one of the teachers who offers this type of walking course; some feature other subjects like architecture or sculptures.

 

Ballerini has been teaching this class for three years, where the only classroom is the open air of Italy. She tells the class that today’s lesson is going to focus on examining the many historical parks of the Roman City, specifically botanical gardens.

 

“It’s not a lecture, it is a journey. I want students to feel the different vibes and energy of the gardens, not just the city center… it’s about experiencing the people of Florence,” explains Ballerini.

 

Ballerini announces the walk today will be easier than yesterday's. The previous day, the students traversed three kilometers, traveling across the river and up a hill that overlooked Florence. These outdoor courses, offered by the university, allow for personal connections to the locations being studied.

 

After walking through Via degli Speziali, the students start with the first garden of the morning, located at the historic Universitá di Firenze — the oldest University in Florence. The group starts their tour, making their way from the morning’s meeting point at the piazza. Once there, Ballerini begins her lesson. The campus grounds contain a botanical garden built by the Medici family. The location’s proper name is Giardino dei Semplici and was designed with a focus on medicinal plants. 

 

After huddling students around the garden’s gates and giving a brief historical account of its origins and purposes, Ballerini guides them to the next leg of their journey. 


The stroll continues, making stops at Giardino della Fortezza and Piazza della Libertà. Beautiful locations in Florence with cultural relevance, Ballerini is sure to cite her facts. She asks students questions about the spots, relating the conversation to past walks. The ultimate goal of this type of tour is to learn as much as possible while actively experiencing the history - and the class is quite engaged. Some students answer her questions while others quickly jot down notes and vocabulary in their phones.  

 

The tour takes time to weave between the old streets of Florence, and each garden is some distance from the previous. About two hours deep, before the final stop, Ballerini brings the students to a boulevard with a couple cafes. She announces to the class that there will be a short cappuccino and snack break as well as time for anyone to use the restroom, instructing everyone to meet her back at the entrance in twenty minutes, stepping inside with some students to order.


While enjoying a snack, one of Ballerini’s students, Kevin Zielinski, shares what he has gained from the class. “We go outside the city center and explore the city for what it is and get to see the native Florentines,” he says.


Other students at the table with various baked sweets share the same sentiment, adding that they enjoy the broadened view of Florence they now know. Zielinski adds, “I’ve been able to see, and notice more greenery.”

 

Although Ballerini has taught this specific format of the class for three years, she and the other teachers have instructed various types of green walk classes for FUA. In the past, some variations have been taught in a hybrid fashion, with both in-classroom and outdoor time. However the course is taught, Ballerini finds any amount of outdoor experience to be of benefit to her students. She believes that learning outside allows for better connection than just knowledge in a classroom, by affixing memory to physical spaces. 

 

After the break, the class heads to the final location, climbing the northern hills of Florence up to Orti del Parnaso. Through this climb, a magnificently intricate glass tepidarium comes into view and Ballerini points out some of its details. 

 

Crossing a bridge over some train tracks and up a rocky path, the tour ends at a park overlooking the city. Ballerini sits the class down to work on Italian language skills and has them practice terms they have learned on prior tours. She has a smile on her face, and although the group walked quite the distance, the students don’t seem to mind. Taking in the view after finishing up their studies, everyone seems inspired, and ready to tackle a new walking adventure tomorrow.