After graduating from Washington University in St. Louis where she received her BFA in printmaking, Laelle left her Midwest home and made her way to Florence. In addition to her position as the Abroadco Resident Director in Florence she tutors English, serves as a studio monitor at Santa Reparata and plays ultimate Frisbee with a local team.

Laelle first experienced Florence in spring 2006 while studying abroad. She immediately fell in love with the small city’s Renaissance charm, it’s art, culture, language, people and, of course, food! In addition to the historical treasures which draw tourists in from around the world, she is eager to provide for Abroadco students the opportunity to take away as much as they can from this unique city. From discovering hidden bookstores to cooking with fresh fruits and vegetables from the Central Market to hiking around neighboring Fiesole, there is much to do and see that can’t be found in the pages of a tour book.