Learning to Love Rome

As an Italian and Art History double major at Temple University, it was a no-brainer I would go to Italy for a study abroad program. However, the first time I had visited Rome, I found it dirty, full of tourists, and overwhelming. After spending a semester abroad in the eternal city, I actually really fell in love. It's a wonderful place with so many secret lovely spaces to explore and enjoy. It's easy to escape the tourists since the city is so big. The people there are Roman; proud and loving. As an Italian and Art History major, my classes were interesting, yet since so many students at the time were not Italian majors, there were not that many challenging classes that had us dive deeper into the Italian of the program. The art history professors are spectacular and so are the Italian teachers - it is just a shame they can't teach more difficult classes. I definitely suggest that you take one of the art classes on campus even if you are not a studio major. It was a fun way to see the city and work on something interesting. The campus is only one building but it's in a very convenient location in the center of the city, making it easy to get around.

After studying abroad, I ended up moving back to Italy to teach English for a year. I also am very advanced in my Italian and it's something that helps me in preparing for jobs.

Definitely learn some Italian before your program! It'll help not only with your understanding, but people there take it as a sign of respect. Reach out to the staff to help you plan weekend trips if you want to get away, and just enjoy the leisurely time in Rome.