Past Review

By Megan B (Multimedia Studio Art, California State University - Chico) for

Italy Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?

The experience was totally worthwhile! I learned so much and it changed how I approach my work and sparked new ideas. It was so important that I went (although I didn't know it at the time) because it has really made a difference in my art and my life. It was a great way for me to get inspired and excited for my last year of undergrad. I would give this workshop 20 globes if it was an option, but they only let me have 5. *If you have any doubts about whether or not you should go... 1. Crumple them up and throw them away, right now! 2. Apply to participate 3. Buy the ticket and GO! GO! GO!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program?	0-2 weeks
The term and year this program took place:	Summer 2008

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.	I learned so much from this workshop! The lectures were truly awesome, and the lab time was amazing. The lectures were lead by international artists, and after lectures we ate the most delicious lunches while spending time discussing anything and everything with the artists. There was plenty of free time to explore the local town, and that in combination with the guided tours of the surrounding areas gave us two different ways of getting to know the place. It was the perfect balance of structured class time and fun cultural experiences. After returning from the trip, I had so many new ideas for projects and it ultimately helped me narrow down the concept for my culminating exhibition.
* Host Country Program Administration On-site administration of your program	Alessandro and Chiara are THE BEST!! I didn't have to worry about anything because I knew they took care of it all. They are also just about the most amazing people you will ever meet! Before, during, and after the workshop, they've got you covered!
* Housing: How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?	The hostel definitely did not feel like a hostel... it felt like a home. It was clean, comfortable, and the staff was super friendly. They went out of their way to help us with anything we needed, and when we left, we were sad to say goodbye.
* Food:	One word: DELICIOUS!!!!!!!!
* Social & Cultural Integration: How integrated did you feel with the local culture?	We had lots of freedom to explore and have fun. We met lots of new people, discovered new places, and did some really awesome things (like climbing a waterfall, going to a concert, having a picnic in the mountains, touring Rome and Rieti, etc.). After the workshop was over, a few of us stayed some extra days in Rome with Chiara, which was also a lot of fun.
* Health Care: How well were health issues addressed during the program?
* Safety:	I never felt unsafe. Alessandro and Chiara took care of everything.
If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program?	Yes

Finances

* 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)

Language

Language acquisition improvement?	I didn't really learn any Italian except for a few words (like, andiamo) but that wasn't an objective for me with this workshop. It was good for me because, not speaking any Italian, we always had someone to translate for us. Also, the lectures were in English.