Italy: Pizza, Pasta, and Wine Past Review

By (Sociology., Pacific Lutheran University) for

IES Abroad: Study Rome - Language & Area Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes, it was the best. ... Sorry, but I've definitely filled out this same survey.

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.

Set up similar to to US academics, but not as demanding. Very focused around tests, even in classes where a final paper would have been more appropriate. Wasn't too demanding to where I was stuck to academics in a new place.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Administration made it clear that they were there and ready to help if we needed it. Orientation also was a good introduction to the countries customs and different ways of life.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Our apartment was great. We had one Italian roommate and five American girls all together. Everything we needed was provided for us and we could easily get access to other household items if we needed them.

* Food:

Italian food is the best, that's all there is to it.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Things like walking by the Colosseum and through the Vatican on a daily basis is more than I could ever ask for.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Healthcare was easily accessible and affordable (well, it didn't cost anything!) I never felt in danger and always felt like I was well prepared for my surroundings.

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?

Lots of English, but a lot of room to practice Italian. Living with and around locals also helped.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Everything
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Just do it. Immerse yourself completely. Love every aspect and take full advantage of every minute.