Study in Rome: Benvenuti!

For religious researchers - Many people know Rome to be the head of the Catholic Church, but many people are surprised to find out is that there is also a strong Jewish influence in Rome as well which dates back to ancient Roman times. Rome gives students an outlet to study and compare all cultures in one city.

For fashionistas - Via dei Condotti is a fashionista's dream where haute couture stores such as Fendi, Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana line the streets. Students can indulge by window shopping, or even making a purchase or two at these high end boutiques.

For outdoor enthusiasts - Rome is home to Villa Doria Pamphili which could be considered a small version of Central Park. If the public park and gardens aren't enough, students also have the option to hop a train to the coast for some beach time.

Culture and Immersion

Rome is a big city; however main attractions are easily accessible on one of the metro lines. Top attractions include the Coliseum, the Roman Forum, Circus Maximus, the Patheon, Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica, Santa Maria in Trastevere, La Patria, Piazza del Campidoglio, Largo Argentina and the cat sactuary, Campo dei Fiori, the Spanish Steps just to name a few. The city also is home to over 900 churches which could keep a student busy for years.

Students might will Campo dei Fiori and Trastevere to be the most popular hangout spots followed by the Testaccio neighborhood.

Students can visit the Vatican museums for free from 9a.m. to 12:30p.m. during the last Sunday of every month. During the summer months, students can also enjoy many free events which take place along the Tiber river including concerts and film screenings.

Affordability

While not the most expensive city in Europe, Rome isn't the cheapest either, however students can definitely live in Rome on a budget. Italy is a cash-based economy using the Euro. Using ATMs is the fastest and easiest way to get cash for all your daily purchases from bus tickets to gelato.

Some tips for students to live on a budget include saving on transportation and food. Students can invest in a monthly bus pass for 35Euro instead of buying daily tickets at 1.50 Euro. They can also take advantage of the many open-air markets throughout the city, the largest being in the Gianicolense neighborhood just off the number 8 tram line.

Students not in the mood to cook at home can also take advantage of the Italian aperitivo where you can buy a drink, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, at regular price and receive various munchies and appetizers. Some of the best locations, which give you the most food, include Freni e Frizioni and Artu` cafe, both located in the Trastevere neighborhood.

Culture Shock and Support System

Even if you are used to the hustle and bustle of a large city, Rome still can catch students off guard. Traffic is chaotic and horrendous and can be very overwhelming, tied together with afternoon "sieta's" it's not wonder that Rome's ying and yang personality can sometimes be overwhelming for students. Students should look into programs which offer on-site staff and support. They can also inquire with their study abroad offices to see what kinds of support systems they may offer.

Yum!

Helpful Hints/Insider Tips

• The best coffee AND gelato can be found near the Pantheon. Cafe Sant'Eustachio, Piazza di Sant'Eustachio, 82, has lines out the door just for a quick espresso but it's worth the wait.
• Then right around the corner you will find Della Palma gelateria, Via della Maddalena 19/23 which offers tons of gelato options.
• The best hole in the wall pizza is Dar Poeta found in Trastevere, Vicolo del bologna 45