With 16 years of teaching under her belt and 7 of those being at FUA, moving into the Liberal Arts Coordinator was a smooth transition for Simonetta Ferrini.

Tell us about your new role as coordinator of Liberal Arts?

I started in my new role as the Liberal Arts Coordinator in the summer of 2011. Being familiar with FUA and its mission, I felt prepared to work with teachers on our educational goals and to assist with providing the best study abroad experience for our students. I immediately felt great support from the school and the teachers.

What is your background in the field of liberal arts and humanities?

I studied Literature, World Religions and Philosophy at the Università degli Studi di Firenze. I continued my education by pursuing my masters degree in Eastern and Comparative Philosophy at the University of Urbino. Thanks to my educational background, I am passionate not only about my specific subjects of study but also for the pursuit of international education and liberal arts.

What are some features and novelties of Liberal Arts at FUA and are there any specific courses to watch out for?

One new aspect of the department that I am excited about is the introduction of service learning. While students take their courses they will be volunteering in the community and gaining a different perspective on their subject and the Italian and Florentine culture. We also encourage interdisciplinary work such as what we've created for literature and photography courses that teamed together to study Calvino and his Invisibile Cities.

Why study Liberal Arts in Florence?

One obvious reason is the art history that goes hand in hand with Florence. The general atmosphere and history of Florence can be read in literature and art books but can also be seen while wondering through the maze of streets that fill the center. Something not quite as obvious as art history is contemporary Italy. In my courses I teach about various contemporary and modern authors. I enjoy teaching beyond the stereotypical Italy and feel strongly about introducing new Italian authors. It is my hope that students can see the reality of Italy as well and be involved in topics about immigration, the mafia or the important feminist movement of the 70s.

What piece of advice would you like to give to the students?

Be more adventurous. Explore more, walk the city, travel more within Italy. As for literature students I would say read more. Read more thought-provoking books, ones that challenge you on an intellectual level and give you a new point of view.