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A Journey Through Art and Self-Discovery
An American University of Florence Student Spotlight
Meet Lizzy Considine, a 23-year-old art history student at The American University of Florence (AUF), who hails from Washington D.C. After studying Buddhism in the U.S. for a year, Considine made the life-changing decision to transfer to AUF and immerse herself in the vibrant history and culture of Florence. Now in her third year, Considine is set to graduate with a degree in Art History in May, 2025. Her journey has been one of exploration, not only of her academic interests but also of herself, all while being surrounded by the art and culture that has shaped the city she now calls home.
Considine’s decision to study in Florence was shaped by both personal and academic factors. Initially, she had planned to study abroad in India, but after a breakup, she found herself seeking a fresh start. Her grandfather, a professor at Stony Brook University, encouraged her to take a semester away from her college town and experience the beauty of Italy. It was a suggestion that changed her life: “I came not really knowing anything about the city, and I fell in love instantly with it, and I knew I wanted to stay here”. Florence was the best place for her to heal and grow.
Considine’s degree at AUF focuses on Renaissance art, but it encompasses much more than just the study of art pieces. Her courses intertwine classical literature, mythology, religion, and politics, exploring how these elements influenced the art of the period. Studying in Florence, the cradle of Renaissance art, has allowed Considine to experience these works in a way that goes beyond the confines of a textbook. She noted how everything is connected. “You can’t understand Renaissance art without understanding the politics, the religion, and the cultural movements of the time. Being here in Florence has given me a deep, personal connection to what I’m studying,” she explains.
One of the key aspect of her program is its hands-on approach. Rather than being confined to lecture halls, Considine’s classes often take place in the heart of Florence itself; museums, galleries, and historical sites that are integral to the subject matter. “The best part is the field trips,” Considine shares. “We don’t just learn about art in a classroom; we get to see it in person. Standing in front of a painting or sculpture gives you a different kind of understanding. There’s an aura to the artwork that no reproduction can capture.”
While studying abroad provides an opportunity to explore new cultures, Considine points out that there is a significant difference between spending a semester in Florence and studying here full-time. One of the things she appreciates most about living and studying in Florence is how much deeper she has been able to immerse herself in the city. However, Considine also notes that there can be a divide between the international students at AUF and the local Florentines. She’s made friends from all over the world, but she’s found it more challenging to break into the local social scene. “Florence can feel like a bubble sometimes. There’s a lot of international students, and it’s easy to get caught up in that. I’ve had a hard time making Italian friends, not because of the language barrier, but because there’s a certain cultural divide,” she says.


As Considine nears graduation, she’s already thinking about her next steps. Although she loves Florence, she’s eager to explore other parts of Italy. She’s considering further study in museum curation or art history, particularly in Bologna or Milan. Continuing her education in Italy feels like a natural next step. She appreciates the intellectual rigor of European universities and the opportunity they offer to immerse herself more deeply in her field of study. “I’m still figuring it out, but I’m interested in museum studies or curating Renaissance art,” she says. “I’d love to work in a museum or gallery, or even with private collections. The art world is huge, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.”
Lizzy Considine is grateful for her time at AUF, which she describes as an institution that offers a unique, interactive learning experience. The combination of field trips, student exhibits, and a hands-on approach to education has shaped her experience in ways that traditional universities can’t always replicate. For students considering AUF, Considine’s advice is simple. Do your research, embrace the city, and be prepared to engage fully with everything it has to offer.
“Florence isn’t just a city; it’s an experience. Take your time to explore, learn the language, and dive into the culture. You won’t regret it,” Considine concludes.



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