Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I learned much more about the topography of Rome than I could ever have in a class room setting. Do not expect this program to be a history review, rather the program incorporates the history of Rome with an in depth look at the archaeology and topography of the city. You will come away with a new appreciation for the eternal city as well as the native people. You will also get a chance to travel to places you normally wouldn't go in Italy and around Rome. This program overall is essential and highly recommended for Classics majors.

On-site administration of your program

The program providers on site were warm people who were very knowledgeable about Italy, they are Italians themselves.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The Centro is one building where all of your needs are met. The dining rooms are down stairs, dorm rooms on the 2nd and 3rd floors, and the classrooms on the 4th floor. Some rooms are singles, others are doubles. Requests can be made for your own single. You have your own sink, bathrooms and showers are shared. There is a girls floor and a guys floor. The neighborhood is Monte Verde, on top of the Juniculum hill. The view is amazing, the famous neighborhood of Trastevere is a ten minute walk away. A park is one block down the road where there are trails to run. The neighborhood is very local, with "bars" (coffee shops), gelateria (for gelato), pizzarias, etc.. I loved this neighborhood, and highly recommend it for people who want to have a true Roman experience! <br /><br /> Like I said before, the neighborhood is great, with many food selections. There are also numerous bus stops so travel around Rome is very accessible.

Our meals were prepared, 3 times a day, 5 days a week. The food was authentic and amazing. Vegetarians were accommodated for. On the weekends, we had to venture out to find food. Sundays are difficult because most places in the neighborhood are closed. There is a pizza/kebab place 3 blocks up the road that is opened pretty much all the time. For good eats, check out Trastevere, Monticello, stick with the local restaurants, stay away from the tourist traps and you guaranteed to eat well in Rome!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The people I met on the program are great. The program is for Classical students, so you will get to experience peers on the same academic level as you, and who can discuss Latin, Vergil, Ovid, Augustus, while talking about sports, music, etc. The student body is diverse and you will definitely find a close knit group of friends to share this amazing experience with. The field trip to Sicily is amazing (food was great, beautiful island). Overall, you will have time to travel, there is a one week break in the middle of the semester, and its highly recommended because its cheap to travel around Europe once your already here!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt safe, the neighborhood was safe and quiet.

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

Although this is an American program. An introductory Italian class is offered. Other students have taken the course and really enjoyed the course over all. Students who were in the Italian course got more out of the program because they were able to converse with the natives.

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• Dorm

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• Americans