New experiences and friends characterize students' time at HU inFlorence The clock buzzes at 8 a.m. and, just like many mornings for Harding students, classes are ready to begin. Yet, for 40 students and two professors attending the ove rseas program, Harding University in Florence (HUF), mornings do not mean breathless sprints across campus but picturesque sunrises and hot cappucinos. In 1980, Harding purchased a 16th century villa in the Florence suburb of Scandicci. Over the last 18 years, the villa and Florence have become home to numerous Harding students. Aside from just living in the villa, students attend classes and social ize there. Whether sitting out on the terrace, playing voll eyball or doing aerobics, there is never a dull moment at the villa. But vi lla life is only one small part of the HUF program. HUF also provides an opportunity for students to learn more about history, art and the cultures of other countries. Because of group tours to places like Rome, Athens, Naples and museums and cathedrals in Florence, pictures from history and art books seem to come alive right before students' eyes. Fall HUF student Michael Hovater said, "Seeing different places brings out the creative spirit in everyone. n Each group also had the opportunity for free travel. This allowed many students to go to places such as' Paris, Amsterdam, Vienna, Salzburg and Berlin. According to most HUF stu- . dents, the aspect of HUF that affected their lives the most was the spiritual impact. Whether worshiping on theAreopagus in Rome, with the Christians in Florence, singing devotional songs in the Catacombs or just wal king up the hill to the vi lla, God was evident everywhere. Spring HUF student Amy Belcher said, "Hearing a prayer in Italian is life-changing because you can hear the conviction in their vo ices even though you can 't understand what they are saying. It's incredible to know there are Christians all over the world. " Students make memories at HUF thatwililasta lifetime. Spring HUF student Derek Garrett said, "I wou ld trade nothing for my experience at HUF. " - Jennifer Burton, Elizabeth Smith Alison Sheets andJeremy Hayes paint frescos at the villa. Frescos, a method where the paint is apptied to wet plaster, were an important part ofRenaissance art because they lasted longer than just applying the paint to the walls. • 26 STUDENT LI FE
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