The first day of school is undoubtedly a moment filled with anticipation, where conflicting emotions come into play. On one hand, there is the excitement and curiosity that come with the start of a new journey. On the other hand, there may be a sense of apprehension and feeling out of place in an unfamiliar environment with unknown people.
In the case of our Italian language schools in Urbania, Genoa, and Milan, there is the additional challenge of finding yourself in a foreign country and joining classes with students of different age groups.
So, if you happen to be a retiree with a passion for Italy and its language, you might feel intimidated by the prospect of being in a classroom with students who are significantly younger than you.
Regardless of your age, country of origin, or initial level of Italian, there is no need to worry! It is completely normal to feel a bit nervous before starting, but rest assured that this feeling will quickly give way to the beginning of a wonderful learning and life experience.
And what might initially appear to you as hurdles will turn into wonderful opportunities, not only in terms of language learning but also in terms of personal growth.
We will welcome you into the big Centro Studi Italiani family from day one.
So, let's find out what you will do on your first day with us!
Welcome and Delivery of Learning Materials
On your first day at a Centro Studi Italiani school, you will be warmly welcomed by our reception staff, who will ensure that you feel at ease and experience the authentic and welcoming Italian culture that sets us apart.
After completing the final enrolment procedures, we will provide you with a tote bag containing a textbook, notebook, and everything you need to start your course.
You will have the opportunity to share a bit about your journey, allowing us to get to know each other better and evaluate your spoken Italian level.
If you haven't already submitted the placement test to assess your general language proficiency and determine the most suitable class for you, you can fill it out before the lesson.
Don't worry about this part. Our goal is not to judge you but to ensure that you are placed in the most appropriate language level.
School Tour
The school tour is an important moment that we prioritise.
We will guide you through each area, from the classrooms to the bathrooms to the break room, enabling you to quickly become familiar with your new home for the duration of your stay.
We will provide you with comprehensive information about the school's services and will be ready to answer any questions or address any doubts you may have.
Additionally, we will inform you about the services, activities, and events available near the school, ensuring that you feel confident navigating the area right from the start.
Arrival in Class and Teacher’s Introduction
Another important moment, almost like a ritual in our schools, is when you are accompanied to the classroom.
Before the lesson begins, the teacher will introduce you to your classmates, fostering an immediate sense of belonging to a group embarking on this stimulating and intensive journey together.
Accommodation
The verification of your accommodation and arrangements is based on your arrival date, which may be before the official start of your course.
Our housing manager, who will have supported you throughout the accommodation search process, will coordinate your meeting with your apartment owner or host family, depending on the option you have chosen.
During this meeting, you will be shown your accommodation and all the amenities that will help you feel right at home.
A 100% Italian Experience
As you may have already gathered when enrolling in our Italian language course for foreigners, what sets Centro Studi Italiani apart is our commitment to providing you with great experiences.
We firmly believe that learning a language also means discovering the culture, traditions, and places of the people who speak it.
That's why, if you're interested, we will involve you in various activities, courses, and day trips that will allow you to experience the authentic Italy. From food to art, music to the beautiful landscapes and architecture.
Therefore, our educational journey extends beyond the classroom, aiming to create opportunities for connection and collaboration beyond the confines of our learning spaces.
As a student at Centro Studi Italiani, you will become an essential part of our big Centro Studi Italiani family.