Finding Myself: Discovering My Roots on Italian Soil Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The educational system abroad was far different than expected. Granted, Wellesley College is an extremely challenging University, however, I found teachers and the curriculum in Italy to be far more liberal when it came to exams, assignments etc. I will say though, that the majority of my learning was achieved outside of the classroom, inundating myself in the culture, partaking in cooking courses, joining a local gym and becoming acquainted with the locals, etc.

On-site administration of your program

The faculty and staff of the ECCO program were more than available and made themselves so by providing both email addresses and personal phone numbers to the students in case of their needed attention. In addition, they were more than willing to stay later than necessary to personally help students with any issues involving their abilities to learn and comprehend.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The studentato in which I stayed was rather antiquated but definitely suitable. My only critique if I had to come up with one was the existence of only one exit in and out of the building. I had experienced a situation in which the only door in and out of my unit was jammed and was unable to both open and be opened. This struck me as odd because each dorm is equipped with radiators, gas stoves and so forth, there were bars on all the windows that disabled students from leaving if need be and there was inevitably no alternative exit in case of a fire. I believe this poses a real hazard and although the buildings are relatively old is an issue that I believe should be addressed, especially because of the vast number of students housed within my particular studentato.

Regularly, I chose to eat raw fruits vegetables and other healthy options that are more than available at the local markets. However, when I wanted to indulge I found myself in one of three places: Cremeria Funivia (known for the best gelato in Bologna, although Gelateria Gianni is another fan favorite); Ditta A.F. Tamburini which is more or less a deli that provides the freshest and tastiest of cold cuts an assortment of handcrafted pastas (both raw and already prepared) and an abundance of Italian delicacies such as artisan cheeses, flavored olive oils and local wines; or Osteria dell'Orsa where you will always find homemade pasta reminiscent of the flavors of Bologna. Each plate is a masterpiece.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Although I enjoyed Bologna, perhaps my fondest memories of Italy will be those spent on my family's farm in Frosinone, a small town about an hour southeast of Rome. Because not all students have family in Italy, I recommend for students to definitely see the Amalfi Coast. It is nothing short of spectacular.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not experience anything negative regarding my overall safety but I have heard the stories of others who unfortunately have. In general, there are several homeless people and "gypsies" in the city of Bologna but, more or less, common sense should tell you where to go and where to avoid.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• International Students

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• Americans

• Everything!

• Nothing!