ambitious but more exciting than I could have imagined! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall I had a great experience on this program. In terms of academics, though the coursework was not as intensive as many of the courses at Brandeis, they were still enjoyable. The Roman history class was mainly in the classroom but included various trips over the summer such as to Hadrian's villa (Villa Adrianna), the Colosseum, and the Arch of Constantine. Though my experience with the Italian class was not the best, there are definite good qualities about it. We went out to different caffes and excersized our language skills inside and outside the classroom. However, inside the classroom there is an adjustment from Brandeis courses to this Italian teaching style

On-site administration of your program

the size of the program (about 35-40 students) was perfect. We were all able to bond in both english and Italian whether it be during our Italian cooking class or touring the city. The program was particularly helpful to me in finding out information for religious needs and was always accessible. The teachers were very approachable to welcoming!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Our apartment housed four american students and one Italian student. There were two americans to a room and the Italian student had her own room. Rooms were much bigger than expected. There was a very comfortable living room dining room area though the kitchen was pretty small. There was a washing machine though in Italy most people air dry clothing on lines outside. There was air conditioning which was definitely a plus during the hot heat in Rome during the summer. We had two balconies decorated with beautiful greenery. All of our neighbors were gracious and the apartment entrance was beautiful as well.

At first I was very nervous about eating kosher, but there are many restaurants in the area and more than enough food. In our kitchen we separated out an area for me to put my kosher items including pots and pans. DUring our Italian cooking class my teacher was more than accommodating in her desire to create a dish that i too could eat. Food and restaurants is a great part of Italian culture so feel free to go out!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

great bonding experiences during orientation and field trips. There was an overnight trip though I was not able to go on it for religious reasons. People were very open and friendly.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never had a health problem but in the event that I would, I knew who to call and what to do

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

Most people in Rome in general are able to speak English although many enjoy and appreciate when you try to speak Italian. I lived with an Italian student who was fairly fluent in English but was very patient and excited to speak to us in Italian.

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• Apartment

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• Americans
• Local Students