JCU in Rome, the perfect mix - small classes, small college in a BIG city Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

JCU was a much smaller university than what I was used to, but I loved the small class sizes and the one-on-one interaction with fellow students and professors. Although this is an American university, all but one of my professors was Italian allowing for a much different academic experience.

On-site administration of your program

What I liked most about API was how much they have to offer as an entire package and they really care about helping make your time abroad the most beneficial experience possible. There was only one program cost that encompassed a tremendous amount including everything from tuition and housing to excursions and a cell phone.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

What I loved about my program was that although Rome is a fairly large city, Trastevere was very quaint and had a small town feel to it. We had the options of a large city, but were not overwhelmed by the size. Rome is also in a fairly central location, so if you do plan to travel around Italy and Europe this is great. There are two main airports in the city and one main train station, all of which are easily accessible and are extremely helpful for traveling purposes. I lived in an apartment with seven other girls in a building with all other API students, which was great because this was the perfect opportunity to really get to know the people in your program. I loved getting to know people from such different places and walks of life, it really made my experience that much more beneficial. The apartments were fairly modern and included laundry and several balconies overlooking the neighborhood.

The Italian was food unbelievable and better than I could have imagined! From pasta and pizza to paninos and gelato, there was nothing I didn't love about the food in Italy.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There is so much history and culture around every cobble stoned street corner, you are bound to discover something new every day. My favorite memories are on my daily runs throughout the city, getting lost and loving every second of it.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I am from an extremely small, rural town and Rome was the first city I have ever lived in. Petty crime is the most common form of crime in Rome and even with this I did not once feel unsafe in this wonderful city.

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