Written by Natalie Cincotta, Bryn Mawr College | ISI Florence Fall 2024
As a study abroad student looking to do community work related to my interests, I originally felt rather intimidated by my lack of experience, limited free time, and the vastness of what Florence offers. However, the tour guide and research work I was able to do at the Sant’Orsola Museum were not only welcoming but completely manageable with my packed course schedule at ISI Florence.
At Sant’Orsola, I guided a group of native Italian speakers through the exhibit in English, assisted with some English translation work, and did my own research on the amazing artists whose work was displayed in Sant’Orsola’s second official art exhibition. I even had the pleasure of meeting one of the artists, Marta Roberti, when she came to give a tour and talkback.
I am an Art History major with possible future job opportunities in the Museum field. At Sant’Orsola I learned the basics of giving tours while also researching the immense history of this multifaceted site. Being able to combine hands-on learning with scholarly research made it one of the most impactful experiences I’ve had while abroad. It’s not often that you get to witness the early stages of a museum’s creation while also working on an exhibition there, and I am so thankful to ISI Florence for giving me this opportunity. I recommend any student interested in community engagement, major-specific work, or even finding social outlets, to take full advantage of the fantastic and truly endless opportunities offered by ISI Florence’s coordinators.
Above all, I’m thankful for the amazing museum experts, my amazing teacher Camilla, the invited artists, and the English students who made my time at Sant’ Orsola this student’s dream! Grazie!
“Natalie concluded her museum experience with a guided tour for a group of 15 people. She did an excellent job! We had spent several weeks preparing beforehand, both on the exhibition’s content and communication techniques. Throughout this brief but intense journey, she consistently demonstrated great dedication despite her young age. I believe it was a very enriching experience for both parties, and I thank you for providing us with such valuable support. ”
Maria Camilla Palleschi, Research and Production Assistant, Museo Sant’Orsola Firenze
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