Authentic, Experiential Learning in Perugia Past Review

By (Elizabethtown College) - abroad from 08/29/2016 to 12/09/2016 with

CISabroad (Center for International Studies): Semester in Perugia

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained a new language, real friendships, and an international mindset that will carry over into my future career.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The Umbra Institute has professors who care about their subjects and lead you to resources that can further your engagement and learning.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The staff is the most efficient, dedicated, and passionate set of individuals that you could find in a study abroad program. No question is left unanswered and their organization allows every step from enrollment to the end of the semester to run smoothly.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartments are close to both the institute and the University for Foreigners if you are enrolled there. They are well equipped, spacious, and comfortable and are safely located.

* Food:

It's Italy... Perugia has a great selection of authentic, regional foods, but it is also easy to find international cuisines like Greek, sushi, and Chinese food. It is also very livable for gluten-free needs and vegans as well.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had to receive a blood draw while I was in Perugia, and there was no difficulty in doing so. If you need a doctor, the school has a visiting doctor with hours, and if it is ever necessary, you can reach the hospital (I believe a staff member will take you). There is also a 24 hour pharmacy in town.

* Safety:

Like anywhere, be smart. It is a small city, but it is not unsafe by any means.

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)

I spent no more than $80 a week, and I bought fresh, healthy food and dined out occasionally. I certainly enjoyed the restaurants, gelato, a pass on the mini-metro, and some local travel, but this estimate does not include money for alcohol, more extensive travel, etc. It's easy to be frugal if you shop at the local markets!

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? About $80 per week.

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? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced

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

  • Americans
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?
  • Community engagement
  • Authenticity
  • Classes with local students
* What could be improved?
  • Roommate selection
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? More Italian! Umbra and CIS prepare you while allowing just enough to be a surprise in an educational and fun way!