Lecce and Siena

My name is Gisele Turchon and I studied abroad twice in Italy through GEO Abroad, in Lecce and Siena. I had the time of my life in both cities, completely opposite of each other. In Siena, I lived in the Torre Contrada and adored my beautiful walk to school everyday with my friends. We went wine tasting and olive oil tasting in the Tuscan countryside. In Lecce, in the South of Italy, I enjoyed boat tours as well as cooking classes on local cuisine. Almost everyday after class we took the quick bus to the beach. The immersive language course built my confidence communicating with locals. Both experiences expanded how I connect with different cultures and were unforgettable. I can’t wait to return!

Gisele Turchon

Siena building under a blue sky with open window shades Italian street at night filled with locals dining and celebrating a holiday. Water well on a patch of grass with dozens of Italian buildings in the skyline. Ten people enjoying the sunset on a small boat at sea. White buildings with cone-shaped roofs under a bright blue sky.