Amazement Past Review

By (Oklahoma State University - Stillwater) - abroad from 06/25/2017 to 07/22/2017 with

AIFS: Rome - Richmond in Rome and Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
A new out look on life and a deeper appreciation other cultures.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes were interesting, mostly just strait lecture and notes and written finals. The written finals were harder than needed be, but this was due to the university guidelines. I wish the written exam wasn't as over regulated, due to the class material not being as in depth enough to write 6 pages in less than 2 hours. This way of examination was way different than my usual american course exams.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration was such a delight! I loved them all so much, and feel so lucky to have them as my guides in the country. They made everything so easy, safe, and FUN!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved my cozy little apartment! I cant complain much other than probably the typical things that maybe others did, but even then nothing was intolerable. The apartment was in a good location, but a 25-30 min walk in the heat to class but again do-able. Remember in Italy there is NO air-conditioning, so always having apartments that lend fans are extremely encouraged.

* Food:

The only thing that bothered be about the experience that i found hard to get over was the meal plan. They offer a range of places to go... but some were very far and only took meal plan as certain times. I just wish there was more freedom with my food, rather than me eating at some of the same places because of convenience.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I had so much fun with everyone, and never felt extremely uncomfortable or out of place in society!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Didn't get sick, or anyone on my trip!

* Safety:

Rome was the capitol of Italy, and well known for pick pocketing. But i never felt unsafe, I was just always paying attention and keeping aware of my surroundings.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

maybe another if they offered better meal plan / opportunities

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Pretty pricy.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • getting to experience another way of life.
  • seeing some of the oldest pieces of architecture in the world!
  • getting to appreciate and be apart of another country other than just my own
* What could be improved?
  • meal plan
  • shorter class time! (typically of course)
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That i should have tried to stay longer!