Semester Study + Intern on the Italian Coast
Sant'Anna Institute

LGBTQIA+ Friendly
Study + Intern

Study and work in a postcard-worthy village.

Live, study, and work on the beautiful Amalfi Coast in southwestern Italy! Develop your professional skill sets in your field of study, boost your resume, gain practical work experience, and connect with the local community, all while taking unique courses at Sant’Anna Institute. When you’re not busy learning in a formal capacity, engage your inner anthropologist by observing the scene in the fishing village below campus. Or, stroll the cafe-lined streets of Sorrento to uncover la dolce vita. With a designated Internship Coordinator at Sant’Anna and guided reflection along the way, you are sure to progress in your field and future career path.


What to Expect:

  • Language: English & Italian
  • Average Courseload: 4-6 courses (12-18 U.S. credits)
  • GPA Requirement: 3.0 (rising junior or senior accepted into major of study)
  • Visa Requirements: YES - Pre-departure

Highlights:

  • Put your studies into practice with an academic internship
  • Develop leadership skills through guided reflections
  • Numerous beaches and coves at your fingertips
  • Excursions and group activities to show you what's good, both locally and further afield
  • Courses taught in Italian and English

Program Details

Internship

Study + Intern Sorrento

The Experience

As part of the  Study + Intern experience, you’ll intern with a local organization in your field of study and complete coursework that will help you reflect and document the skills practiced.

Internships are available in the following fields:

  • Archaeology
  • Architecture
  • Art History
  • Community Health
  • Culinary Arts*
  • Education
  • Emergency Management
  • Environmental Science
  • Fashion Merchandising
  • Fitness Management
  • Geology/Volcanology
  • Hospitality Tourism & Beverage Management
  • Human Services Management
  • International Business
  • International Relations
  • Interior Design
  • Italian Studies
  • Journalism
  • Marine Biology
  • Marketing
  • NGOS and Non-Profit
  • Nutrition
  • Pharmaceutical Science
  • Social Work
  • Sports Business
  • Studio Arts
  • Sustainability and Social Activism
  • Veterinary Science
  • Women’s Studies

*Culinary arts placements are available but no credit is available through Jacksonville University. Students must be getting credit through their home institution.

The Academic Component

In addition to your internship hours, you’ll complete Sant’Anna Institute’s Leadership, Engagement, and Professional Development (LEaD) program. Consisting of weekly mentoring from field experts, the LEaD group discussions and reflection assignments are designed to teach you how to consciously engage in an intercultural and professional environment and to express the values and skills you’ve develop throughout the experience.

The LEaD Program covers:

  • Creating an e-portfolio
  • SMART Goals
  • Self-awareness
  • Communication Styles
  • Giving & Receiving Feedback
  • Cultural Awareness
  • Teamwork
  • Personal Branding
  • Skills & STAR method
  • Public Speaking
  • Guest Speakers

See the list of internship courses and the rest of the elective courses you’ll choose from under “Choose Your Courses” on the Academics tab.

How it works

  • During the application process, you’ll submit a cover letter, resume, and two letters of recommendation.
  • Within about 4-6 weeks of the application deadline, the internship coordinator will reach out to you to set up an interview to discuss your past experience, skills, interests, and hopes for the placement.
  • About four weeks before the program, the internship coordinator will confirm your placement organization.
  • Within two weeks of the program start, the internship coordinator will send you your individualized internship information which includes your placement, project ideas, and a detailed schedule of work hours! Some placements are in the Sorrento city center, others may require students to commute via train or bus.

Sant'Anna Institute

Located atop a seaside cliff, the Sant’Anna Institute is housed in a prominent building offering breathtaking views of the Marina Grande of Sorrento. Courses are rooted in experiential learning, which means you’ll get a unique, hands-on experience.

The grounds offer a tranquil garden, and the campus building houses classrooms, a student lounge, a kitchen, and residential rooms on the top two floors. From the Institute, you can reach the city center by foot in just fifteen minutes, and the train station is a quick 20-minute walk. When you’re not studying, you can join service learning opportunities, language exchange groups, and volunteer projects – as well as explore the city and relax.

The Sant’Anna Institute, founded in 1998, is a private institute accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education, and is a member of Edu Italia. Courses are accredited by Jacksonville University, which is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Accredited by Jacksonville University (Florida), which is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Areas of study with 3 to 7 classes available

  • Art & Design
  • Communications
  • Business
  • Natural & Applied Sciences

Don't see your major listed here? There may still be courses available. Browse our programs by major.

Areas of study with 8 or more classes available

  • Humanities
  • Italian

Don't see your major listed here? There may still be courses available. Browse our programs by major.

On this program you’ll take 12-18 credits. You can choose from the following study + intern combinations:

  • Option A:  9-15 course credits + 3 internship credits (135 contact hours)
  • Option B: 6-12 course credits + 6 internship credits (270 contact hours)
Course selection (choose 2-5 courses)

Below is the course list for Spring 2024. You’ll take 2-5 of these courses in addition to the internship course. Looking for a future term? The list doesn’t change much from term to term so this will give you a great idea of available courses (and sometimes new ones are added!). The courses under “Italian Studies” are taught in Italian, the rest of the courses are taught in English.

Italian Studies

  • WL 101 Elementary Italian Language
  • WL 102 Elementary Italian Language
  • WL 201 Intermediate Italian Language
  • WL 202 Post-Intermediate Italian Language
  • WL 325 Advanced Italian Language
  • WL 325 Post Advanced Italian Language
  • WL 325 Contemporary Italian Literature
  • WL 325 Medieval Italian Literature I

Humanities and Arts

  • ENGL 306 WI Creative Writing
  • ENGL 212 – WGS 221 Special Topics: European Literature and Gender
  • HUM 399/WGS 321 The Neapolitan Woman in film and literature from Emma Hamilton to
    Elena Ferrante
  • HUM 399 Special Topics: Archaeology Field Study
  • ART 376 History of Art from Ancient Greece to Italian Renaissance
  • PHIL 101 Introduction to Philosophy
  • PHIL 375/RELG350 Religions of the Classical Antiquity
  • ART 376 Special Topics: Drawing on Location
  • FVA 276 History of Italian Cinema

Health Sciences

  • KIN 221 Human Nutrition

Business Studies

  • INB 303 Competing in the Global Environment
  • INB 421 Global Business: Italy and Tourism
  • MKG 320 Product Management: Food Marketing
  • ENT 481 Entrepreneurship and the New Economy

Social Sciences

  • IS 305-HIST 350 History of Italian Food and Culture
  • HIST 350 Special Topics: History of the Mafia
  • POL 375 Special Topics: Human Rights
  • ECON 335 – SUST 335 Sustainability
  • PSYC 400 S/T Cross-cultural Psychology
  • JU 330 New York calls, Naples responds
  • JU 330 Mediterranean Migration
  • POL 301 International Organizations

Sciences and Natural Sciences

  • MSC 101 Introduction to Marine Biology with Lab
  • JU 330 Introduction to Volcanology
  • PHYS 152 General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism
  • CHEM 103 General Chemistry I
Internship Course Selection (you’ll be enrolled in one internship course, choose 3-6 credits)
  • Art 390 – Art
  • BIOL 390 – Biology
  • COMM 390 – Communications
  • EDU 390 – Education
  • GEO 390 – Geology
  • IS 390 – International Studies
  • JU 390 – Italian Studies
  • MKG 390 – Marketing
  • MSC – 390 – Marine Science
  • SOC 390 – Social Work
  • SPO 390 – Sports Business
  • WGS 390 – Women & Gender Studies

Note: Courses will run subject to demand and adequate enrollment, so it is important to get additional alternate courses approved.

Why Life in Sorrento

The gateway to the Amalfi Coast, the town of Sorrento is easily described as a paradise by the sea. From Sorrento, you can catch the train to Rome, take a ferry to the islands of Capri and Ischia, or reach Naples 20 miles away.

This famous, quaint city in Campania is a popular tourist destination, but don’t let that fool you. The small city and friendly people make it easy to quickly become a member of the community. Beyond the tourists, make time to wander the citrus-lined streets, saunter through the Villa Communale Park, or just enjoy the sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius in the distance.

Hiking trails abound for the mountain adventurer looking to conquer the Amalfi coastline. A beautiful bay with incredible beaches and sheltered coves lures any water lover. Sorrento is the producer of Limoncello, delicious food, and stunning sunsets. After we help you acclimate to the Mediterranean lifestyle, you’ll have the confidence to roam the city like a true local.

Live The Local Life

  • Cooking Class and Dinner

    Learn how to make your favorite dishes and eat them too at fattoria Terranova.

  • I Limoneti di Sorrento

    Enjoy a visit to “I Limoneti di Sorrento” and food tasting. Take the train or arrange for private transportation.

  • Napoli Sotterranea

    Visit the underground city of Naples and see the historic places where it all started, including a Greek-Roman Aqueduct.

  • Capri

    Explore Capri, arriving on a scenic ferry ride from Sorrento.

Sant’Anna Institute Residence Hall

Location

Sant’Anna Institute’s new residence hall space occupies the top two floors of the Institute (talk about an easy walk to class!). Students share double rooms with an en suite bathroom in each bedroom. There’s a shared kitchen and common area, as well a beautiful terrace overlooking the bay. Rooms will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Meals

You’ll have access to a fully equipped kitchen. Put your skills to the test and try cooking local favorites.

Plus, all Sant’Anna students regardless of housing choice get a special card that gives them discounts at local stores and restaurants.

Inclusions and Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • BathroomEnsuite
  • Bed linens
  • CommuteWalking
  • Double Room
  • Hair Dryer
  • Kitchen Equipment
  • Single Room
  • Study Areas
  • Towels
  • Wi-Fi

Shared Apartments in Sorrento

Location

If the residence hall fills, you’ll live in double rooms in shared accommodations. The apartments are fully-furnished.

Note: Apartments in Italy, especially in the historical centers, are all situated in antique buildings.

Check out the photo gallery to get an idea of what your housing could be like. The photos are of apartments that have been available in the past.

Meals

In your apartment, you’ll have access to fully equipped kitchen. Think: Italian dinner parties with your housemates and friends!

Don’t forget – you’ll also get a discount card from Sant’Anna to use at local restaurants and stores.

Inclusions and Amenities

  • Bed linens
  • CommutePublic TransportationWalking
  • Double Room
  • Laundry
  • Single Room
  • Towels
  • Wi-Fi

What's Included

Inclusions

Program fees are in US dollars and include the following:

  • Jacksonville University Transcript
  • Several day excursions (examples from previous terms include Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius, and Naples)
  • Discount card for local restaurants and shops
  • Tandem language program
  • CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
  • Academic advising
  • Financial aid counseling
  • Assistance with travel arrangements
  • Full-time tuition & fees
  • Housing
  • Pre-departure and on-site orientation
  • Airport pickup
  • Medical & Accident Insurance
  • The Local Life cultural program

Welcome & Orientation

Upon arrival you’ll be collected from the airport and taken to your accommodation. In the first few days you’ll take part in both the Sant’Anna and CIS Abroad orientation programs. You’ll learn practical tips for living in Italy like where to go out, how to stay safe, where to shop. We will also take you to explore the local eateries in Sorrento and you’ll enjoy a welcome meal.

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

At the end of the program we will all get together for one last tasty meal and talk about your adventures and experiences. Our staff will also share some precious tips on going back home feeling like a champ! Your study abroad experience is something to be cherished and shared with your family and friends back home, so we’ll help you process before you start sharing.

Program Excursions

While participating on a CIS Abroad program, you'll be able to take part in built-in day trips at no additional cost. These trips are subject to change from term to term; listed below are excursions that have run in the past.
Mt. Vesuvius

Mt. Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius is a stratovolcano in the Gulf of Naples, about nine kilometres (5.6 miles) east of Naples and a short distance from the shore. Vesuvius consists of a large cone partially encircled by the steep rim of a summit caldera. Mount Vesuvius is best known for its eruption in AD 79 that buried and destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Capri

Capri

A resort since the Roman Republic, Capri is still a tourist destination for both Italians and travelers. Features of the island include the Marina Piccola (the little harbor), the Belvedere of Tragara (a high panoramic promenade lined with villas), the limestone crags called “sea stacks” that project above the sea (the Faraglioni), the town of Anacapri, and the ruins of the Imperial Roman villas.

Pompeii, Naples and Amalfi Coast

Pompeii, Naples and Amalfi Coast

To get the full experience of the famous buried city of Pompeii, take a guided tour of the ruins. From there, head to the dramatic and stunningly beautiful Amalfi Coast, which looks over the Mediterranean Sea from its rocky shores. Included is a ferry ride for a day trip to the stunning island of Capri. Finally, shop in local stores and dine at famous pizzerias in Naples.

Site Director

Travel Tip:

If while traveling there’s no internet, embrace it. Play a card game with someone in the hostel common room, read a book, lie on the beach, go for a walk, talk to a stranger, think about life. Some of my favourite travel memories are from times when I didn’t have an Internet connection.

Travel Tip:

If while traveling there’s no internet, embrace it. Play a card game with someone in the hostel common room, read a book, lie on the beach, go for a walk, talk to a stranger, think about life. Some of my favourite travel memories are from times when I didn’t have an Internet connection.

About:

Romina is a native Roman with degrees in International Communications (2005) and International Relations (2007) at the University for Foreigners of Perugia. Shortly after graduating, she moved back to Rome and began her study abroad career working for IES. In Rome, she began pursing her M.A. in International Affairs at the SIOI. After completing an internship at the Italian Development Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rome, her career took a turn as Romina was offered a position to work as a Communication and Public Information Officer within the civilian component of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Herat for the NATO mission in Afghanistan. Between 2008-09, Romina completed two missions in Afghanistan. In 2009, she began working for the Italian Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, which then led her to cover the same position at the Italian Embassy in Sana’a, Yemen. In Spring 2011, the Italian government ordered embassy staff to return home due to the uncertain situation of the Arab Spring. Ever since, Romina has enjoyed her return to the eternal city, and to her career in study abroad through CIS Abroad.

Marisol Diaz Turkowsky
Travel Tip:

Let the new world take you, not as an outsider, but as an insider! Small children adapt and learn basic human language by interacting with just about everything. Open your mind to new cultures by finding that curious child in you, and you can construct your own learning adventure!

Travel Tip:

Let the new world take you, not as an outsider, but as an insider! Small children adapt and learn basic human language by interacting with just about everything. Open your mind to new cultures by finding that curious child in you, and you can construct your own learning adventure!

About:

I’ve always embraced my family’s multicultural background. Born from a Peruvian family with Italian, and Chinese descendants, and being raised in Florida, it came natural to me to have an international work profile. I have always been a curious learner, leading me to study the natural sciences, and human ecology. I currently know Swedish, Spanish, Italian, and German. Thanks to my university grants and NGO’s, I worked on community-led conservation research projects blending social-ecological management relations in Easter Island, Aeolian Islands, Mauritius, Florida Keys, and Belize’s Glover Reef. My passion is to teach students stewardship for a sustainable world and my motivation in international education came from these memorable trips I did as a student that changed my life. Outside work, if I’m not traveling visiting friends and family, I enjoy dancing at home with my daughter, having picnics, horseback riding, and taking ballet lessons.

Frank Angelo Casale III
Travel Tip:

Step out of your comfort zone by trying new things. Be willing to talk to the locals and ask them questions! I’ve discovered this is the best way to have an authentic travel experience and really get to know the place you happen to be.

Travel Tip:

Step out of your comfort zone by trying new things. Be willing to talk to the locals and ask them questions! I’ve discovered this is the best way to have an authentic travel experience and really get to know the place you happen to be.

About:

Studying abroad in Madrid as a college student sparked my interest in international education. After finishing my studies in International Relations and Spanish stateside, I decided to make a move back to Spain to start a career as an ESL instructor. Since then, I have worked as a teacher, director, and international program coordinator throughout Europe. Travel and education are my biggest passions in life. I believe exploring the world is one of the greatest ways to learn and bring people together. Outside of work, I am always planning my next adventure and looking to find the next best restaurant or bar to get a taste of local culture. I have travelled to over 50 countries and have no plans of slowing down anytime soon!

Your Support Staff

Kayla Weiss
Travel Tip:

Create an impromptu picnic. Find some strawberries from a farmers market or some bread and cheese from a little shop or maybe a fresh pastry, make your way to a green space, and just take it all in.

Advising and Enrollment
Travel Tip:

You’ll be supported every step of the way!

Advising

Kaylee Klinger, our student advisor and 2x CIS Abroad alum, can help match you with a program that fits your academic and personal objectives. It’s not always an easy choice, but you can’t go wrong! Once you’ve decided, we’ll guide to you submit an online application.

Enrollment

Once you’ve submitted your initial application and the fee, you’ll be assigned a Program Enrollment Coordinator. We’ll work closely together to guide you through the enrollment process and prepare you for a life-changing experience!

Dates & Prices

ADVISOR TIP: Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Dates posted here are subject to change.

  • Application Deadline: Jun 1
  • Arrival: August 27
  • Departure: December 16
  • Price: $17,890
  • Application Deadline: Nov 1
  • Arrival: January 14
  • Departure: May 4
  • Price: $18,390 - $19,830
  • Application Deadline: Jun 1 (Estimated)
  • Arrival: August 25 (Estimated)
  • Departure: December 14 (Estimated)
  • Price: $18,390 (Estimated)
Additional Information:

SPRING 2024
Lower price: double room
Higher price: single room (if available)

As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses.

CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities.