Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Hot. Beautiful. Rich. Fantastic. Past Review

By (Plan II Honors and Biology, The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 06/18/2012 to 07/27/2013 with

AIRC: Rome - Interdisciplinary Semester in Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how to navigate a foreign country, how to write excavation journals, how to work on an archaeological dig. It was absolutely worthwhile. It was the best way I could have spent my summer.

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.

I had a blast with the AIRC. I learned SO much. The staff are unbelievably smart and skilled, and they're all so enthusiastic about what they do. I wouldn't have traded it for the world.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Things were a little confused and disorganized at times - but then, I quickly learned that to be one of the hallmarks of Roman culture. Considering the setbacks we came up against, I think everything was handled really well.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

9 girls in one four-bedroom apartment, with no AC. It wasn't always comfortable, but for the most part we got along well, and we couldn't have asked for a better spot in the middle of the city.

* Food:

It's Rome. 'Nuff said.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't experience any health problems, personally, but the directors made it clear that they were always available to help with issues, if any arose. I know several of my fellows had a few minor problems that all seemed to get sorted out without much trouble.

* Safety:

Rome can be dangerous. Beware of pickpockets, especially. One of my roommates was also sexually harassed on a train. Best to travel in groups and practice basic street smarts.

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-ish
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Eat leftovers.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International 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?
  • Albert
  • the food
  • the digging
* What could be improved?
  • living arrangements
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I should have learned more Italian before I got there.

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!