Roma: Amazing Experience with Life Adjustments Past Review
By Valerie A (Communication and Philosophy, Boston College) for
The American University of Rome: Rome - Direct Enrollment & Exchange
My study abroad experience was amazing, despite its ups and downs. I was easily able to travel from Rome and see A LOT of European big cities. I also was able to learn about italian culture and living situations, as well as political outlook.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
AUR had a lighter course-load and easier work in comparison with my home university, Boston College. However, I really enjoyed the break from grueling work in order to travel and see the world, learning through experience along the way. I will say, though, that my Italian Intermediate course was one of the best Italian courses I have ever taken. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
AUR is an extremely small university, so, understandably so, it does not have as many resources as a larger university would. I would have wanted to see an increased amount of support services. I would also suggest more events like the farewell event so that students can socialize and establish better relationships, because, with travel, it is difficult to get to know people. However, I thoroughly enjoyed my semester abroad and LOVED the Tuscan day trip! |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
AUR does not provide a meal plan, but Italy has AMAZING food :). |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The tuscan day trip was a wonderful way to experience wine tasting in the vineyards of Sienna! |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Definitely always use a buddy system. Rome is a big city with a lot of theft as well as creepy guys that, at times, follow you. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
There was no language requirement, but I took Italian Intermediate. I practiced with everyone and anyone who was willing to speak with me. I did use Italian in most interactions in order to help me improve my skills. |
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
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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