The academics were VERY challenging, but well worth it. Past Review
By Eleanor M (PSYCHOLOGY., The Catholic University of America) for
Catholic University of America: Rome - CU Rome Campus
I gained understanding of myself, the kind of person I am and who I want to be. I made fantastic friends that really made me become who I want to be. It let me see the great parts of me, how I am really friendly, make friends easy, and really can adapt to anything. I'm really easy going, I can let other people take charge if it means that much to them because I just like to enjoy whats around me.
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | Studied at the facilities of St. Johns, but went to Catholic University |
| The term and year this program took place: | Fall 2009 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The academics were VERY challenging, but well worth it. Especially the Art and Architecture course because it was difficult material, but made the experience there so much more enjoyable because it was hands on learning. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Dr. Dawson-Vasquez was the administrator of our program and did an excellent job. He would answer our questions immediatley and was always there when we needed, more than an administrator, but as a friend. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Incredible. I had a nice newly renovated apartment with a young couple in the most expensive area of town. My own huge bed and room, with a desk, lamp, and nice closet space. <br /><br /> The couple is now part of my family, they were a big help to me whenever I needed them. I miss them so much. |
| * Food: |
My host family cooked excellent meals everynight, and although we were only supposed to have 4 meals a week, they would always offer to feed me over the weekend. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The culture there was great, people were reallly accepting and open to us...especially when we wanted to learn more about them. I really had no bad experiences with the Italians, they were the nicest people ever. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Health issues were addressed immediatley, although it is really expensive to go to a doctor, and having the health insurance they make you get does nothing. HOwever, when we were sick we were taken right away to a doctor and given medicine etc. Safety wise - I felt safe the whole time i was there, however you must remember to be careful because I was involved with an incident late at night - as safe as it is, don't let your guard down. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | It was really expensive over there. All my money went to eating out and going out on the weekends. I spent between $1,000 -$2,000 euros while over there. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Be prepared. Save up, I had not and had to depend on my family. Make wise choices, spend it on traveling and food and don't worry about too much alcohol or gifts for everyone, enjoy your time there, but it will take money. |
Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Beginner |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
I can understand Italian very well now, and although my speaking is still hard, and embarassing, it is much better (Italian professors at my university have commented to me how much better I am) |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Be open, and the first time you get caught in a situation where you get upset - step back, take a breath - and enjoy it. You really are becoming Roman if you get emotional about the littlest things...that's how they live. And I loved it. |
Individual Course Reviews
| Course Name/Rating: |
Roman Art and Architecture |
| Course Department: | |
| Instructor: | Dr. Crispin Corrado |
| Instruction Language: | English |
| Comments: | The course was very difficult, but it was hands on learning. I would leave class, explore Rome and understand why who built the building around me. It was a great history course all about Rome, and it really made my experience more enjoyable. |
| Credit Transfer Issues: |
| Course Name/Rating: |
Jesus Christ in Rome |
| Course Department: | |
| Instructor: | Dr. David Dawson-Vasquez |
| Instruction Language: | English |
| Comments: | We went all around to the different churches of Rome and got to experience each time period differently from the Catacombs to the 19th century. Again, it really made for a rewarding experience in Rome to know about the churches that make up such a unique and Religious city |
| Credit Transfer Issues: |
| Course Name/Rating: |
Journey and Discovery of Italy: English Authors in Italy |
| Course Department: | |
| Instructor: | Dr. Milena Locatelli |
| Instruction Language: | English/Italian |
| Comments: | The course lectures were very powerful in terms of insights on Rome and Italy in general. Two of the books were excellent, while some other readings were just average and did not pertain to the class. The teacher was excellent, though assignments were vague and not really understood by the students. |
| Credit Transfer Issues: |
