Rome, Italy at John Cabot University: The best semester of your life Past Review

By (Marketing, Iowa State University) for

John Cabot University - Study Abroad in Rome, Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Totally worthwhile. Most valuable experience I've ever had.

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 classes were world class. I learned so much that semester without a lot of outside homework. They realize that you are on a study abroad trip and therefore make sure that almost all of the material is learned in class without the need for homework reinforcement.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

This program was perfect. I had absolutely no complaints and absolutely the best semester of my life. The school is big enough to make a variety of friends but small enough so you get to know a lot of people in one semester. The classes were great and the professors world class. I learned some of my most important knowledge here. The administration and program directors were nothing but helpful the entire time. I even was able to get an internship with the US State Department through connections at JCU which added an amazing experience to my resume and life! My apartment was in the perfect location with all the expected amenities. All professors were easy to understand and well versed in many teaching styles. They also offered us access to trips and trip providers to encourage us to travel on our weekends. I would totally recommend this program to anyone!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Everything need to live was provided with the apartment including bedding, towels, dishes, furniture, lamps, and even outlet converters. My apartment building was quiet and in a very safe area but was easy to get to the local nightlife and American hot spots. This was perfect because when we wanted sleep we could have a quiet place but fun was totally accessible by walking or a cheap cab ride to the further venues.

* Food:

They don't provide food for you but they did offer wine tasting and Italian cooking classes.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We went on a few trips to the surrounding areas (Tivoli Gardens, etc) and 'City of Rome' and 'Statues and Fountains' tours were paid for and provided to all incoming students. It was easy to mix with the local Italian students as well that attended the University.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I did get sick while in Venice. When I got back a member of the program waited 6 hours in the emergency room (since there is no urgent care) with me. Talk about commitment to your students.

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

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The traveling around Europe
  • The Apartment
  • The awesome connections I made
* What could be improved?
  • The amazing people I met
  • The City
  • The professors
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Social students that want to get a good education but have a fabulous time should take this program!