Rome: A University in Itself. Past Review

By (History, Abroad101 University) for

CEA CAPA Education Abroad: Rome, Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
As a History major, I cant imagine having studied anywhere else. As I stated in a passage above, just by simply walking the streets I learned so much. It's hard to put into words the knowledge I gained from this semester abroad. I personally feel it not only helped me to advance in my studies, but it also helped me to grow as a young adult. I have learned to appreciate more and to take time to just stop and enjoy life for the little things that makes you happy.

Review Photos

CEA Global Education: Rome, Italy Photo CEA Global Education: Rome, Italy Photo CEA Global Education: Rome, Italy Photo

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.

The workload was the perfect amount in my opinion. They didn't give to much work because I believe they know that there is so much that you want to accomplish while abroad, but at the same time the amount of work given was enough to teach us what needed to be taught, and also to keep us on track. It was perfect. I feel as if I learned so much this semester, in class, and from the city of Rome itself, not to mention all of the other amazing places I was able to go and see during my free time. Also, many of the classes I took were on-site classes, so I was able to go to many museums and galleries with my class, having my professor as a person guide. It was the perfect way to not only see more of the city and it's many beautiful treasures, but it also made the class a easy hands-on learning experience.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program leaders here at CEA Rome were absolutely amazing. I couldn't have asked for more understanding and caring program leaders. They wanted to know all about each and everyone of us, they were eager to help us in any way that we needed, and they were just the nicest and most energetic people. If they heard that you were going on a trip somewhere, they were happy to give advise on what to see, and what to try while there. Like I said, I couldn't have asked for anything better.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My apartment was in a very nice part of Rome, and was very close to the global campus. (Only a 5-10 minute walk!) The apartment was very nice and was a lot bigger than I expected it to be. HUGE living room and kitchen, perfect for sitting around with the roommates to talk about our days, and enjoying each others company, and the bedrooms were nice as well. It worked out to where 3 of the 5 of us had our own bedroom, and the other 2 were perfectly happy to have a room to themselves.

* Food:

I personally didn't have any problems with food. I am not allergic to any type of foods, nor am I restricted from eating anything. So finding something to eat in Italy was never a problem let me guarantee you that. Talk about pasta and pizza galore! Yum.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

CEA Rome took us on many activities, my favorite being the Campania weekend trip. We spent the weekend exploring Pompii, Sorrento and the beautiful island of Capri. It was an amazing trip filled with history, new friends, great food, an amazing 3 hour boat ride around the Island, swimming and tanning, and the most beautiful sights i've ever seen. A weekend I will never in my life forget.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I found Rome to be very safe. I never needed to go to the doctor nor did I have any instances when I needed any medical attention. I always felt safe. My only advise would be to watch for pick-pocketers. I personally never got pick-pocketed, but it is known for happening here so just be aware. If your aware of whats going on around you then you should never have a need to worry.

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

I found that here in Italy learning and speaking the language was very fun. Not very many people spoke English that well, but it seemed that most people I interacted with encouraged me to speak the language and did there best to try to understand what it was I was I was trying to say. On top of that, I came across many people who were eager to try out the little bit of English they knew. I loved learning the language and trying to apply it to every day life.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The opportunity to travel.
  • Learning to living like a local in a foreign country
* What could be improved?
  • The amount of money it cost to study abroad.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I learned so much here in Rome during my semester abroad. The city itself is a teacher and a class. From culture to food, from language to History, and from Art to Architecture. Every street has something to teach you. One of my favorite things to do is get lost wondering down a beautiful hidden side street. I absolutely fell in love with my host city, it's unlike any other place in the world. I learn something new everyday by just wondering the streets, it's an experience I'm going to miss. If you love History, Art, Architecture the Rome is the place for you. Any body who has a love for beauty will be right at home in this magnificent city.