Description

** Early Bird Discounts: Receive discounts for Spring if you apply by Sept. 15 and for Summer and Fall if you apply by Feb. 15! Check the Athena Study Abroad for details.**

The seemingly mythical "City of Water" in northeastern Italy is truly out of a fairy tale. Venice is composed of 18 small islands connected only by bridges, ferries, and the city's world-famous gondolas. Venice, which was once a sovereign nation, exists as a center of commerce and art. This incredible and unique city is sure to capture the interest and imagination of any student.

Academic Program Info
* Fall or Spring Semester; Academic Year
* Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors
* Minimum 2.8 GPA
* Official transcript from Scuola Lorenzo de' Medici (LdM)

School: Lorenzo de' Medici (LdM), in affiliation with Istituto Venezia
Athena's partner school Lorenzo de' Medici (LdM), in affiliation with Istituto Venezia, offers students an opportunity to study in a historic setting in the city center's Campo Santa Margherita. Whether you traverse the narrow streets on foot or the canals via vaporetto, you're certain to find yourself transported by the atmosphere that is uniquely Venice.

* Housing: Campo Santa Margherita
All apartments have a spacious common room.
- Housing is available in shared student apartments.
- Bedrooms are usually doubles, so it is advisable to reserve single rooms well in advance (single rooms incur an additional fee).
- Most apartments have two or three bedrooms, thus four to six students generally share an apartment.
- Apartments are furnished and equipped with bed linens, washing machine, TV and towels.
- In each apartment there is a fully fitted kitchen with utensils and basic pots and pans.
- Each apartment contains a living room.
- Although apartments are of the same standard and have similar facilities, no two apartments are alike.
- Apartments are within a short walk to and from the school.
- Athena recommends students apply early in order to secure the best available accommodations.

What to do in Venice
* Striped Pole
Even though there are no cars, canals make it easy to navigate the city. The school was founded by local Venetians who want to develop and share an authentic Venice immersion with the student. Afternoon excursions and walking tours are organized, which allow students to expand their knowledge about Venetian history, art, traditions and daily life.

Possible activities include:
* Art: Tour museums and art exhibitions.
* Local handcraft: Visit the glass and mask workshops and the squeri (where the gondolas are made).
* History: Wander around the historical areas of the city, taking in its history and majesty.
* Delicious dishes: Walk around the Rialto market (one of the greatest markets in the world), visit the local bacari and trattorie, taste local dishes and wine, and possibly even take cooking lessons!
* Athletic activities: Trek the islands of the lagoon, take bike trips on Venice Lido, and have the option to become a member of the Sport University Centre where you can learn voga alla veneta (rowing), play soccer, volleyball, etc.