Every semester, Florence University of the Arts (FUA) offers the Italian Family Club program where students are paired with local Italian families for cultural integration opportunities within the local community. If you are a current student at FUA, on Wednesday September 10 at 8:30 pm, an informational session will be held at Corso dei Tintori, 21. To sign up, please visit the Student Life Website, or email sld-studentservices@florencecampus.org today. The following is a personal account from Spring '25 Study Abroad & Italian Family Club alum, Emily LaMartina.

My first day in Firenze began with an orientation, almost immediately after dropping off our suitcases. Suddenly, it all felt real—this beautiful city would be home for the next four months. A wave of emotions hit: excitement dominated, but a quiet worry lingered beneath the surface. Never before had I been so far from my family. Even during college, I stayed in-state and could visit them often.

With so much information coming at once, there was barely a moment to feel homesick. But what would happen after a few weeks, when I no longer needed maps to get to class? Once settled into my apartment, would it finally sink in that this wasn’t just a two-week vacation, but real life in a new place? A tap on my shoulder from my friend snapped me back to the present. “Oh my gosh... you should do this.” Glancing up at the orientation presentation, I noticed the words “Italian Families” and tuned in.

The process was straightforward: attend an informational meeting, fill out an application, and complete an in-person interview to determine if you’d be matched with a local Italian family. Filling out the application felt surprisingly fun. As someone who came from an Italian American family, I grew up with similar values, traditions, and dinners featuring my Papa’s homemade pasta sauce. Being the oldest daughter, I’ve always looked after my siblings and babysat for as long as I can remember. Family has always been deeply important to me, and I dream of having my own one day.

Meeting the family for the first time was set for an aperitivo at the school’s restaurant, Fedora. With a carefully crafted card and a bouquet of flowers in hand, I walked there, my heart bursting with joy. A quick prayer helped calm my nerves; deep down, I trusted that the right family would find me. Thinking back on that first meeting still makes me smile. From the very beginning, it was clear this would be a wonderful experience. 

Just a few days later, the family invited me to their home for dinner. The little girl ran up and jumped into my arms, and from that moment, any lingering doubts disappeared. Their home instantly felt welcoming, offering comfort and a true sense of belonging.

While there is a language barrier with the children—my Italian is limited to basic phrases for ordering food or finding the bathroom—it has never posed a real problem. At their age, language isn’t everything. If you can play, smile, and laugh together, you’re already connected.

Spending time with this family has been the most special part of my time abroad. Amid the daily chaos of life with three young kids, they always make time for me—whether through a quick text, a phone call, or inviting me over for dinner. Their warmth fills my heart with joy and love, and I truly cherish every moment with them. Homesickness hasn’t been an issue; with them, I feel safe and at peace.

Often during the semester, I would photos to my family back home. My dad once replied to a simple picture of a pasta dinner, reminiscing about his childhood. He told me that each of his siblings had a photo in their highchair, faces covered in pasta sauce, and joked, “You could not be a true LaMartina without loving that homemade sauce.” This family reminds me so much of my own. The father prepares special plates of cheese, olives, and other treats, eager for me to try them—just like my dad back in St. Louis, who often stops by The Hill, our city’s Italian neighborhood, for cheeses, meats, and olives. Both share the same excitement for introducing good food and creating memorable experiences. It’s not just the food, but their mannerisms and warmth that make me feel right at home.

It’s a powerful reminder of how human we all are. I observe how both the mom and dad eagerly start conversations with others. They are thoughtful individuals who genuinely care and strive to understand those around them. This same quality shines brightly in my own parents. When the family takes me to the kids’ school, I watch the interactions between parents and children. There’s a special glow that this family radiates—one that naturally draws others in. I see faces light up as people share stories and conversations with them because it’s clear they truly care.

In a world often clouded by apathy, anger, and uncertainty, this family chooses to be a beacon of light—the friendly faces you look forward to seeing at the grocery store or around the neighborhood. Their warmth and kindness stand out as a refreshing contrast to the negativity that can surround us.

My dad called me the other day, sharing his wise words: “Search for people and places that remind you of where you came from. That way, no matter where life takes you, you will never lose touch with home and all the love that shaped who you are.” My parents have always been my muse, inspiring me in countless ways. I feel the same admiration for this family. The patience and love they radiate toward their children is truly admirable, and I hope that one day I can be even half the parent they are.

I am incredibly grateful to FUA for this opportunity. The Italian Family Club has given me a lifelong connection, and I will cherish the memories and time spent with this family forever.

For more information, or to sign up for the informational meeting on Wednesday, September 10 at 8:30 pm please visit the Student Life Website, or email sld-studentservices@florencecampus.org today.