Italy was an unforgettable experience that I believe everyone should have! Past Review

By (Speech Communication, University of Northern Iowa) - abroad from 06/17/2013 to 07/04/2013 with

University of Northern Iowa: Traveling - UNI Cross-Cultural Capstone in Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I loved Italy, but I definitely take US luxuries, such as public bathrooms, variety of food, free water, etc, for granted. Besides that, the culture and history that Italy has to offer was unbelievable.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $200-250
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Remember the U.S. dollar to European euro conversion. It is definitely more expensive!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

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? 3 years of Spanish
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? Download a translation app on your smartphone/iPad.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Bike tour
  • Hiking
  • Free days in the cities
* What could be improved?
  • Better hostel - Rome
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? To pack extra towels! Also, research some of the historical landmarks that we visited to have prior knowledge and truly appreciate where we visited.