Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Temple Abroad, Study in Rome Past Review

By (Political Science and Government., Tufts University) for

Temple University International Programs: Rome - Temple University in Rome

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

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Spring 2008

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Not a challenge compared to my home university, but still a rewarding and fun experience with some really good professors.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Small apartments a little bit far from the center of Rome, but still a good neighborhood for groceries and family restaurants. <br /><br /> The worst part was not being able to have overnight guests.

* Food:

I cooked my own meals.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

All of my field trips with the program were excellent.

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $250
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I traveled almost every weekend so food/travel/hotel expenses added up. If you enjoy cooking and live in an apartment then eating in Rome can be inexpensive.

Language

Language acquisition improvement?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* 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? Plan ahead- know where you're interested in traveling (whether it's just in Italy or to other countries) because you only have so many weekends as this program is shorter than most. My best move was to plan a month long backpacking trip after it was over (and not accidentally spend the money I needed for it).