Written by Aaditya Kotadia (University of Virginia), Student Correspondent for CET Siena, Spring 2026
First Morning in Siena
Before orientation on the first morning of Siena, my roommates and I grabbed cappuccinos for a (then) surprising €1.50. We used our limited Duolingo-based Italian to ask the coffee bar owner his name. We’ve since been frequents at Paolo’s shop.
First Weekend to Perugia
On the first weekend of our time in Siena, CET took us all on a field trip to a chocolate factory in Perugia, Italy, where they make Baci (“kisses”). They showed us their production facilities and explained how they make their popular hazelnut-chocolate sweet, the history of Baci, and even showed us how to make quality chocolate with a live demonstration.
Meet Luca (Our Neighborhood Cat)
Luca (the neighborhood cat) jumped through my window on the first week while some friends were over. He’s super friendly, and you can often find him on the patio or windowsill on evenings (or when you’re cooking dinner)
A Class Favorite
Most days after class, I meet up with classmates to try out a new food spot nearby the CET center in Siena. We’ve had everything from Nutella pizzas to kebabs so far!
Contradas in Siena
Taking the guided tour that CET offered through Siena has been one of my best decisions in my time so far in the city. We were able to learn about the history of Siena—specifically about the Contradas of Siena!
While just walking around in Siena you can understand the significance of the Contradas. It really hits you when you step inside a Contrada church and hear the passion behind their history, community, and of course, the Palio (the horse race in which 10 of the 17 Contradas compete for glory).
