Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Forza Roma Past Review

By (BBA, Emory University) - abroad from 01/19/2015 to 05/12/2015 with

The American University of Rome: Rome - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained invaluable confidence from putting myself into a new situation and succeeding. I also gained some of my most valued friends that I will keep in touch with for a long time.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

While some were better than others, the classes were all pretty high quality, and most teachers were very qualified. There were resources for students to use, such as a computer lab, library, and a help desk for Italian language classes.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing was in a fantastic location (trastevere), and provided everything needed for living in Rome. The accommodation itself wasn't anything special, but it was a good place to sleep.

* Food:

The food in Italy, and around the school specifically, was always fantastic.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Since the school is American, cultural integration requires a bit of initiative, but is definitely there for those who seek it.

* 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)

It was an expensive semester, but I was prepared to pay much more than I typically would. I tried not to let money, or lack of money, dictate what I would do, or would not do.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? If I stayed in Rome, it was probably about 100 euro.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

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

  • Local Students
  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Rome
  • Social opportunities
  • Student Life Office
* What could be improved?
  • Consistency of class quality
  • Interaction with resident students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Bring a lock for hostels

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.