An Unforgettable Semester in Rome Past Review

By (Economics, Amherst College) for

Trinity College Rome Campus: - Study Abroad in Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I loved Trinity College - Rome Campus. The experience could not have been any better. Although the workload was not terribly challenging, I learned more academically and personally than I ever have in a semester. This was in large part due to the amazing faculty and staff at TC/RC and the city of Rome itself. TC/RC has by far the best location of any study abroad program in Rome. On the Aventine, not only are you centrally located in the city, but you are also in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in all of Rome. Living in the convent was great. It fostered a community atmosphere that I don't think would have been replicated at another program. I would recommend this program to anyone considering studying abroad!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

While the on-site administration of the program was great, the organization at Trinity in Hartford was poor. Communication was almost non-existent.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We lived in a convent in an ideal location in Rome (Aventino). The neighborhood was incredibly safe, absolutely beautiful, and in close proximity to restaurants and tourist attractions. We did not need to buy any items to settle-in; everything was provided.

* Food:

Food was expensive, because we were responsible for 4 dinners per week.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We had a number of cultural events (olive picking, opera) as well as one weekend trip to Naples, Pompeii, and Capri.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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
Language acquisition improvement?

I practiced the language in my Italian class, at the convent with the nuns, and in the city of Rome. I used the language everyday; however, many people in Rome speak English, so previous knowledge of Italian is not essential.

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Do TC/RC--hands down!