Rome, Italy: makes you wiser, more mature, and independent Past Review

By (Special Education, Illinois State University) for

Lorenzo de' Medici – Florence

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I grew as a person while I studied abroad. At first, it wasn't easy to be away from home and family, but you learn to love every second you are abroad and realize that those people will be there for you when you get home. I am SO glad I studied abroad as I had the time of my life and made some of the best friends I could have ever asked for.

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I never thought that the workload was TOO much and the grading system was understandable. The workload was less than my host university which was very nice considering we were in Rome. I loved our school and seeing everyone. There was a great atmosphere at the school!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in San Giovanni in Rome in an apartment and I was more than satisfied with my living arrangements. First off, we were only 2 minutes from our Metro stop which was SOO nice. Secondly, San Giovanni is a family neighborhood so it was so interesting to see people's daily lives as they walked in and out of their apartments and stores. Also, I got placed with the best roommates also so I was very happy with my living arrangements!

* Food:

I would ask locals on where to dine for the best food because they give the best places.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I would suggest to travel on the weekends! (but still leave weekends in Rome because you will learn that you will miss Rome when you travel :) )

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Some of my friends didn't have much money at the end of their travels so i suggest to make a budget so that you are not screwed in the end of your experience with no money. Be smart with your money.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I think that if you like a small school in the heart of Rome, this school and program is perfect for you. The advisors and people that work at the school are always there to help you if you ever needed anything.