Maymester on the Italian Coast

Maymester by the Sea

Spend a picturesque Maymester on the southern Italian Coast in Sorrento, Italy! Immerse yourself in Italian culture, food, and history. Study Italian language, literature, or history; or, take a popular intro to Marine Biology class and explore the marina by boat. You'll create memories to last a lifetime!

What to Expect

Language(s):

English

Average Courseload:

1 Course (3 U.S. Credits)

GPA Requirement:

2.50

Visa Requirement:

NONE Required!

Highlights:

Enjoy field trips built into each class for further exploration of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Earn three credits in three weeks or add on additional summer sessions

Choose from courses specific to southern Italy history and culture

Learn on a campus perched on a cliff overlooking a picturesque fishing village

Explore top destinations through included excursions and have time to venture on your own

Program Details

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.

Course Information

Browse Courses

Use the filters when looking for courses offered in a specific term or session. Course listings are for exploratory purposes, final course availability is determined during the enrollment process.

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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.

Italian Coast - Residence Halls On Campus

Overview

Sant’Anna Institute’s new dorm hall space occupies the top two floors of the Institute (talk about an easy walk to class!). Students share double or triple 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 have either a marina view or garden view.

Meals

You’ll have access to a fully equipped shared 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

Bathroom - Ensuite Bed Linens Commute - Public Transportation Commute - Walking Laundry Towels Wi-Fi

Italian Coast - Apartment

Overview

You'll live in double or triple rooms in shared accommodations. The apartments are fully-furnished. Note: Apartments in Italy, especially in the historical centers, are sometimes 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

Air Conditioning Bed Linens Cleaning Service Commute - Public Transportation Commute - Walking Desk Kitchen Equipment Laundry - Onsite Towels Wi-Fi

Italian Coast - Sant'Anna Villa Sama + Meal Plan

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Overview

For those students who need a little help with meal prep, the student residence is the choice for you! This dedicated Sant'Anna building is located in the Santa Lucia neighborhood, approximately a 20 minute walk from campus. All rooms are doubles or triples with their own ensuite bathroom. Each bedroom will have a mini fridge, with two shared kitchenettes for the building. The kitchenette will be equipped with toasters, microwaves and vending machines, which will supplement the meal plan provided for this accommodation option only.

Meals

At Villa Sama, students will enjoy a partial meal plan that includes Italian homestyle cooking! Sweet and savory breakfast options are available every day! In addition, approximately half of your dinners can be eaten at Villa Sama where they will provide a weekly menu to choose from and you make your selections a week in advance for your 3-course meals. Dietary restrictions are honored upon request.

Inclusions and Amenities

Air Conditioning Bathroom - Ensuite Bed Linens Cleaning Service Commute - Public Transportation Commute - Walking Desk Laundry - Onsite Meal Plan - Partial Microwave Pool Towels Wi-Fi

What's Included

Inclusions

Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:

Jacksonville University Transcript
Program excursions (typically a few day trips)
Discount card for local restaurants and shops
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 & drop-off at the end of the program
Medical & Accident Insurance
The Local Life cultural program
CIS Abroad Micro-credential

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 Institute and CIS Abroad orientation program where 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 epic 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.

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.

Pompeii, Naples, and Amalfi Coast

To get the full experience of the famous buried city of Pompeii, take a guided tour of the ruins. ...

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Amalfi Coast Boat Tour

Cruise along the Amalfi Coast on a boat tour starting near Sorrento and traveling to Amalfi and ...

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Olive Oil Farm Visit

Journey to a local olive oil farm where you'll will learn about the process of oil making. You'll ...

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Site Director

Frank Angelo Casale III

International Operations Regional Director & Sorrento, Italy Site Director

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!

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.

Your Support Staff

Kayla Weiss

Senior Program Enrollment Coordinator - Italy

I received a BA in Hospitality Management and Service Innovation from the Rochester Institute of Technology and an MA in International Education from the School for International Training. In college I studied abroad in Croatia, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates and have worked in both Italy and Ireland. I adore a good cheese board, becoming one with my, often overgrown, vegetable and flower garden, enjoying the outdoors on land or on/in water, and cooking a variety of cuisines.

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.

Tiffany Ho

International Operations Director - Italy

I'm a first-generation Asian-American with mixed ethnicity from China, Cambodia and Vietnam. I feel incredibly lucky to have the higher education my parents were unable to have, of which my favorite part is when I studied abroad as an undergrad. To date, I've worked ten years in the field of international higher education, five of those years living and working in Qatar. Besides travel, I love to dance (ballet, tap, jazz, salsa and tango) and am currently fixing up my recently purchased condo in my home city of Chicago!

Travel Tip! If there are free walking tours at your destination, take advantage on your first day! It helps to acclimate you to your new surroundings, gives you ideas on what to check out further, starts you making new friends, and beats the jetlag! Don't forget to tip your guide well!

Kaylee Klinger

Advising & Alumni Relations Manager

Received a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a minor in Business Administration from Ohio University. It was there where I discovered CIS Abroad and got the opportunity to study abroad twice; in Paris, France and Stirling Scotland as well as become an Alumni Ambassador. It was during my time in the Scottish Highlands where I discovered my passion for travel. On top of studying in Paris and Stirling, I've been blessed to have traveled to Australia, Canada, Ireland, England and Italy as well! I have a passion for hiking and visiting all of the National Parks in the United States. Also enjoy spending time with my cat, Mumford.

Travel Tip! The best travel tip I always share is, if possible try to catch a redeye flight. That has helped me tremendously fight jet-lag and it allows you more time to explore the extraordinary unfamiliar place!

Serenah Quiroga

Advising & Communications Coordinator

I am the daughter of an Argentinean immigrant so all of my dad's family still lives in Argentina. I grew up in South Dakota but attended high school and undergrad in the northern Chicago suburbs. I graduated in 2023 from Lake Forest College with a degree in Neuroscience and Psychology. I balanced life as a women's soccer student-athlete, dance team captain, president of the Neuroscience club and working as a medical assistant and babysitter. I studied abroad in Sorrento, Italy and traveled all throughout Europe during my time there. I also frequent Argentina to visit family but my dream destinations are Tokyo, Spain, Seychelles and sooo many more! I feel inspired to work in international education because I want to share the impact that international travels have had on my life and help provide resources for others to travel and gain a world perspective. Outside of work, I love going to concerts, dancing, reading and meeting new people. I am an empathetic and social butterfly that has a lot of compassion for others. At the same time, I value my 'me-time' and am extremely determined to be the best version of myself.

Travel Tip! Always find a reason to talk to a local or someone you may not know. Whether it's a simple hello, compliment, or question, there is always something to learn from every person you meet. Some of my best experiences and favorite memories were formed because of these interactions.

Dates & Prices

Additional Information:

Program Deposit

There is a non-refundable program deposit for all CIS Abroad programs. Paying the deposit secures your spot on the program! The deposit deadline and amount can be seen above in the Dates & Prices section.

Housing

All list prices are for shared (double occupancy) bedrooms. A supplemental fee applies to a single occupancy bedroom in any of the housing options (when available).

Single room supplement = $800

Price Range

3 credits + Apartment or Residence Halls On Campus: $5,590
3 credits + (Sant'Anna Villa Sama + Meal Plan): $5,990

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.

ADVISOR TIP:

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

Maymester on the Italian Coast

Maymester by the Sea

What to Expect

Highlights:

Learn More About This and Other Programs

Program Details

Sant'Anna Institute

Course Information

Life in Sorrento

Live the Local Life

Cooking Class and Dinner

I Limoneti di Sorrento

Napoli Sotterranea

Capri

Italian Coast - Residence Halls On Campus

Overview

Meals

Inclusions and Amenities

Italian Coast - Apartment

Overview

Meals

Inclusions and Amenities

Italian Coast - Sant'Anna Villa Sama + Meal Plan

Overview

Meals

Inclusions and Amenities

What's Included

Inclusions

Welcome & Orientation

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Dates & Prices

ADVISOR TIP: