An Experience of a Lifetime!! Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., Loyola University Chicago) - abroad from 05/20/2013 to 07/27/2013 with

Loyola University Chicago: Rome - John Felice Rome Center

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I have a better view of how I want to live my life in the states. I also learned a bit more about Europe and traveling, since I have never traveled without my family or been out of the country. YES it was was completely worth while! I am trying to fit another study abroad in the Spring!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My classes weren't very rigorous, but other kids had very rigorous courses/demanding professors

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

It would have been nice if cleaning supplies were available.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I think that this is a personal choice-whether you put yourself out there or not.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any health issues, but the kids who did got excellent and immediate care.

* Safety:

Be safe and use common sense. Don't go anywhere alone at night unless you are going by cab!

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)

it would have been nice if dining services were available on campus, but I understand why they weren't for the summer.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $50
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Ask for tap water, get pizza because it is biggest portion for smallest price, split wine, plan in advance as possible for hostels!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? I took 4 years of spanish in high school.
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Practice it while ordering, especially at English speaking restaurants because the employees will correct you.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • On-site classes
* What could be improved?
  • Have communal cleaning supplies available to the students
  • have nets available for the windows in the dorms
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? In general, I wish I immersed myself in the culture more, such as speaking Italian while at meals and with locals. I also wish I spent more time in Rome, exploring the non-touristy parts, such as the Key Hole and going to the orange grove.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!