The American University of Florence (AUF) is opening its doors on April 18 & 19 for its annual Open Day events. AUF Open Day is an opportunity for prospective students to get a first-hand look at its unique programs, campus life, and community engagement. Whether a student is able to attend in-person on April 18 or virtually on April 19, visitors will have the chance to see what sets AUF apart as an institution.

Unlike traditional universities, AUF is able to integrate experiential learning into multiple parts of its curriculum, ensuring that students are gaining real-world experience while still being a student. According to Mattia Delle Piane, Dean of Students and Public Relations Coordinator at AUF, this is what makes the institution stand out from the rest.

“Our three pillars are experiential learning, community engagement, and cultural integration,”  Delle Piane explains. “Other institutions focus on internships, but we take it a step further by bringing the classroom into the community. Students here don't sit in lectures, they apply what they learn in real time.”

AUF offers degree specialties in fields such as communications, fashion, hospitality and food & wine wellness, fine arts, and culinary arts. These degrees coincide with the roots of Florence, making the city an extension of the classroom. AUF maintains a strong relationship with the local community, which allows students to be able to directly interact with professionals in their chosen industry. This also gives students the chance to make a direct impact on the local community while still being students.

One of the hallmarks of AUF’s experiential learning model is its Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI), which provide students with hands-on training in real-world environments.

These divisions include learning labs such as the Fedora pastry bistro, Ganzo student-run restaurant, Dimora Guest Apartments, Sorgiva Spa, FLY - Fashion Loves You vintage shop, INGORDA publishing company, and the student art gallery, Corridoio Fiorentino. 

“All of these spaces are open to the public. So students must engage with real customers, solve real problems, and create professional-quality work,” Delle Piane says.

The level of engagement has had a noticeable impact on both the students and the community itself. The locals especially began to take notice of the student-run businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the city was devoid of tourists.

“They fell in love with what we are doing,” Delle Piane recounts. “They continue to support us and the relationship between our students and the Florentine community has only grown stronger.”

For prospective students, the Open Day serves as an introduction to these experiences. The event is structured to provide an in-depth look at life at AUF, starting with a campus tour followed by a school presentation that gives an in-depth look at academic options, housing, and student services. They are then divided by major to meet faculty members and learn more about their desired programs. 

“We want students to feel like they’re part of a community from day one,” Delle Piane states. “Our classes are small and professors know each student's name. You won't feel lost in a sea of hundreds, but you will be part of a tight-knit academic environment where your strengths and challenges are recognized.”

The Open Day will feature a virtual component for those unable to attend in person. This will take place on Saturday, April 19. With the AUF student body being largely international, the university makes sure that prospective students can participate from anywhere in the world. The session includes virtual campus tours, presentations on academics, and Q&A sessions.

“We try to accommodate as many time zones as possible,” Delle Piane explains. “It’s important that students and their families get a sense of what we offer, no matter where they are.”

AUF's approach to education allows students to be set up for future success. The university's Career Center connects students with job opportunities in Europe and the United States.

“Our chefs have worked in top-tier restaurants, our photographers are professionals in the field, and our fashion instructors have real-world industry experience,” Delle Piane says. “This network is invaluable when it comes to finding jobs after graduation.”

AUF’s environment allows students to develop crucial soft skills that are a high priority for employers.

“Studying abroad shows that you can adapt to different cultures and work with people from diverse backgrounds,” Delle Piane says. “If you want an education that goes beyond textbooks, immerses you in a new culture, and prepares you for real-world challenges, AUF is the place for you.” 

On Open Day, prospective students have an opportunity to explore what makes AUF such a dynamic institution. Through hands-on learning, community engagement, and cultural integration, AUF offers an experience that extends beyond the classroom.