As international education continues to evolve in a post-pandemic world, study abroad professionals are being called to rethink the purpose and power of global mobility. It's no longer just about sending students abroad—it's about cultivating deeper, more intentional learning experiences that shape ethical, culturally intelligent global citizens.

At Authentica, we believe that to lead transformational student experiences, educators and program leaders must first experience that transformation themselves.

Introducing IMPACT Italy: A Reimagined Professional Development Experience
IMPACT Italy is a one-of-a-kind, immersive learning journey designed specifically for international education professionals, faculty, and program designers. Set in the stunning city of Florence, this program blends immersive site visits, reflective dialogue, and cross-sectoral engagement to help participants build more meaningful, purpose-driven global programs.

Study abroad in Florence. Italy
https://authentica.com/program....s/professional-devel

Why Study Abroad Professionals Choose IMPACT Italy

🌍 Experience the Student Journey Firsthand
As professionals, we often send students abroad without ever walking in their shoes. IMPACT Italy flips that script—inviting you to live the kind of experience you aim to create. You’ll explore Italy not just as a tourist, but as a learner, collaborator, and changemaker.

🛠️ Build Tools for Intentional Program Design
Through interactive workshops and peer exchange, IMPACT equips you with a toolkit to align your global programs with learning outcomes like DEI, sustainability, and intercultural competence. You'll walk away ready to design programs that go beyond "exposure" and create measurable impact.

🤝 Connect with a Global Peer Network
Join a curated cohort of international educators and thought leaders from across the globe. The relationships built during IMPACT often lead to cross-institutional collaborations, joint programming ideas, and lifelong professional support.

🎓 Learn from Italy’s Living Classroom
From grassroots social enterprises to leading universities and cultural institutions, you’ll engage with a wide range of local partners that highlight Italy’s innovation, resilience, and complexity.

📍Location Matters: Why Florence?
Florence is more than beautiful architecture and Renaissance art. It’s a living case study in community development, sustainability, migration, and heritage preservation. It’s also the perfect place to step back and reflect on your professional role in shaping the future of study abroad.
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Who Should Attend?
• International education staff and study abroad advisors
• Program managers and directors
• Faculty leaders and curriculum developers
• Professionals designing short-term, faculty-led, or service-learning programs
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Study abroad programs:
https://authentica.com/

Let’s Reimagine Global Learning—Together
At Authentica, we believe the best study abroad programs are led by those who continue to learn themselves. IMPACT Italy is your opportunity to pause, reflect, and grow—so you can return to your campus re-energized and re-equipped to lead.

Programs:
https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-florence/
https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/

Mastering the Challenges of Study Abroad

Creating a study-abroad program that is enriching and memorable for students involves careful planning and consideration of multiple aspects of the student experience. Here are some key strategies to make study-abroad programs truly beneficial for students:
Explore the Arts and Humanities Programs: https://authentica.com/discipl....ines/arts-and-humani
1. Cultural Immersion
Encourage deep cultural immersion by incorporating activities that aren't just tourist attractions but involve meaningful engagement with the local community. This can include homestays, language exchange meetups, or volunteer opportunities. Immersive experiences help students gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and develop empathy and global awareness.
2. Academic Relevance
Align the study-abroad program with academic goals that complement the students’ studies. Whether it’s international business, language studies, or environmental science, ensure that the program offers courses and experiences that enhance their academic trajectory and career aspirations. Collaborating with local universities or institutions can enrich the curriculum and provide students with unique insights into their field of study.
Business related Programs:
https://authentica.com/discipl....ines/business-study-
3. Safety and Support
Student safety is paramount. Establish a clear, accessible support system that students can rely on throughout their time abroad. This includes pre-departure orientations, on-the-ground staff who can provide assistance, and resources that address health, safety, and emergency situations. Ensuring students feel supported at every step increases their confidence and allows them to focus on learning and exploration.
4. Professional Development
Incorporate elements that contribute to students’ professional development, such as internships, networking events, or workshops with local businesses. Exposure to international work environments can enhance their resumes and give them a competitive edge in the job market.
Educational Study Abroad Programs: https://authentica.com/discipl....ines/short-term-educ
5. Reflection and Community Building
Encourage students to reflect on their experiences through blogs, journals, or discussion groups. Reflection helps students process their experiences and solidify their learning. Facilitate opportunities for students to share their insights and learnings with each other, creating a sense of community and shared purpose within the group.
6. Accessibility
Ensure that the program is accessible to all students, including those with disabilities or limited financial resources. This might involve providing scholarships, ensuring that accommodations and activities are disability-friendly, and supporting diverse dietary and health needs. A truly enriching program is one that is inclusive and equitable.
Check out our upcoming short-term study abroad programs
https://authentica.com/programs/
7. Post-Program Engagement
After the program ends, maintain engagement with alumni through newsletters, reunions, and opportunities to mentor new students. This helps sustain the international community and allows alumni to continue benefiting from their experience through networking and ongoing learning opportunities.
By focusing on these elements, educational institutions can craft study-abroad programs that are not only enriching and educational but also supportive and inclusive, ensuring that students return with skills and memories that last a lifetime.
Location based study abroad programs
https://authentica.com/locations/