We live, we learn, and we grow. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall, I really enjoyed the program. I thought the workload was perfect: not too overwhelming yet not too little. There is a very fine line, and I think the program nailed it. Teaching methods I thought was a lot better than universities in the states. We were very hands on with everything we learned. We visited historic sites (for history/religion classes) and we were immersed into the italian society (for italian language class). Actually seeing history and shopping in the markets and cafes' made the experience so much more valuable. The learning experience is completely different when it's applied. I've always believed learning concepts were important, however, I believe learning how to apply them is even more important. The American education system undoubtedly offers more knowledge/information. However, it fails to help apply these concepts. There's a big difference between knowing and doing. Knowledge is useless without action.

On-site administration of your program

The administration overall took a great experience and made it even better! The exceeded my expectations on all aspects. Every single staff member were so helpful! whether it was under their job description or not, they all found a way to help a student whenever we needed it. Whether it was directions to get to places, recommendations, helping communicate in italian... it didn't matter, you name it, they gave their full effort to help. Anytime there were problems, they addressed it to the best of their ability. They were always helpful but happy to help at the same time. It felt as though we were friends. I think that really made the experience that much better. I can't find anymore words to emphasize how great the staff was. Always so helpful and friendly. Great people!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I thought our apartment was in a great location. Though many of my roommates hated it, I really thought the location of our apartment added to the experience. We were more isolated from the touristic areas. Yes, bus rides were longer no matter where we wanted to go. But the fact that we lived near all Italians, it pushed us harder to implement ourselves into their society and community. I had to try and speak italian, where as i feel many of my friends (who attend John Cabot University in Trestevere) did not get the full experience. They were able to get around speaking english most of the time. They did not full know how to use the bus system. i felt our neighborhood was safe. I enjoyed my walks to class in the morning. The housing arrangement really helped me appreciate home more. I think that is very important. Learning how to appreciate what we have by comparing it to what we're experiencing now. What I did not like however, was how far apart our apartments were from students in the same program. It was difficult meeting up because everyone was scattered. I thought if the apartments were together, it would add to the experience. But overall, I thought the housing experience was nice.

Awesome food in Rome! Loved the pasta. Loved the pizza. The one pizza place that stood out to me was "Buffeto" near Piazza Nuovona. Otherwise, everything was great. Like most places, you'll have your hit and misses with restaurants, but we'll live to eat another meal.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

CEA's Capri/Sorrento arranged trip was awesome! I thought it was great that CEA had the trip in the beginning because it really brought all the students together. Yes, we had classes together and had a short time to meet each other. But when CEA had the trip scheduled and brought everyone together and had a weekend out, I thought thats where most of the friendships formed. Here, we got a chance to meet everyone outside the "student" perspective. I thought it was an awesome trip. The social experience overall was awesome. But again I reiterate it could have been better if the apartments were closer together. The program is relatively small, which gives everyone a chance to meet everybody. But overall, the social and cultural experience was AMAZING!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had no health or safety issues. Neither did anyone I know.

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

I usually tried my best with the Italian I knew. Most people did not speak english, however, I was able to get around. I did not practice it daily per se, however, I did use it everyday. Whether it was grocery shopping, ordering meals, or asking for directions. I think immersion is the best way to learn a language.

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Americans

• The people.
• The experience.
• The staff/administrators.

• Location of housing
• Nothing else.