This year we celebrate our 20 year anniversary.  We’ve been reflecting on our unique story as an ambitious and creative study abroad program.  Our roots will always be tied to the small town of Siena, Italy.  Thats where it all began and it’s where we still offer tons of opportunities. Yet, our ambitions have always been broader.

Our relationship with the city of Brussels began when five young students from Siena chose to go to university at the ULB Université Libre De Bruxelles.  Through them, we were able to see the potential for fascinating and engaging intercultural opportunities for our students.   The efforts of our Director, Lavinia Bracci together with Irene Grazi, Arianna Giorgi, and other courageous, young Sienese,  have led to the multitude of opportunities that we offer in Brussels today.

Everyone gets to experience European diversity in Brussels

The opportunities in Brussels are not limited to those that choose our semester, summer or three-week courses.  Since 2016, we have implemented a trip to Brussels for both our Siena Fall Semester as well as our Siena Fall Semester.  We want our students to understand Italy through the context of the city of Siena.  We also think that it’s fundamental that they understand Siena and Italy’s place within the context of the European Union.

During each 4-day trip to Brussels our students get a full tour of the EU Parliament and in-depth lesson on the European Union.  We also make sure to visit with at least one of our partners like ENAR (the European Network Against Racism).  Finally, our students are exposed to Europe’s most diverse city through visits to local museums and through the eyes of the locals.

CLICK HERE to learn more about our opportunities in Brussels.