Little Italy in Catania Past Review
By Theodore C (Italian Studies., Brandeis University) for
Italy Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs
My experience allowed for improvement in my Italian language speaking skills. Because I was immersed in a cultural experience as well, I was able to better understand Sicilians and their way of life.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
I believe the workload was fair and the professors were efficient in their teaching. The educational system seemed to be very similar to that of the American educational system. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
There were no weaknesses in the program. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
It's Italian food. What could go wrong? |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Going to Palermo and seeing all the artwork in the churches was impressive. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
The city was pretty safe and I don't believe I needed any special vaccines. |
| 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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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
I practiced my language with the professors and other Sicilians/Italians I met during my stay in Catania. I ended up using Italian every day. Not all people spoke English. |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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