Italy: Reggio Emilia - Education, Health, Communications, Italian

Studying abroad in Reggio Emilia, Italy, truly changed my life in so many ways. Studying in a smaller town was something I worried about in the beginning. My worries melted away quickly with the charm of this lovely city. USAC staff in charge of this program were amazing. They answered every and all questions had my me and my fellow students.Group trips were well planned and always neat and interesting. I had so much fun exploring this town with my fellow students. On the last day of my program, I didn't want to leave and wished I had signed up for a year program. I met my best friend through this program, we have each visited each other in Ky and Iowa!

I could not have picked a more perfect destination for my study abroad experience. Reggio is a smaller, intimate city in which tourists are uncommon. With its beautiful streets, kind residents, and central location, it is truly a great place to live. I felt safe once I was in the city, but I will admit my apartment had a somewhat sketchy walk from my apartment. I loved that through this program, we had multiple opportunities to bond as a group, including our welcome dinner and a few different excursions around Italy. The train station was only a short walk to get to, and there are truly so many places you can easily get to from Reggio. My favorite memories were going to K2 for gelato, Candor for pizza, and hanging out with my friends at Piazza Fontanese. My life truly changed from this program, as it immersed me into a new culture, pushed me out of my comfort zone, and allowed me to make friends from both Italy and the U.S. Reggio was small enough to feel like a part of the community, but big enough to truly experience all aspects of Italian life. I would recommend taking the cooking class- it was truly one of the best parts of my experience!

Overall,
USAC Reggio Emilia was everything I could have hoped for while studying abroad. Starting with the USAC Staff in Reggio Emilia, 3 of the nicest, most supportive people I could have hoped for. Housing was great (very nice apartments in close proximity to the school and city center with gated complex for safe living) and the academics were taught very well by accommodating teachers with intercultural backgrounds.

My time spent in the lovely and serene city of Reggio Emilia was the ultimate experience with USAC. The staff was always so helpful, and it was because of them and the program that I was able to make the most out of my time spent there. It was like having a home away from home; a second family. They emphasize the student experience, with constant support available, and fun field trips/ activities that allow you to immerse yourself fully in the culture. I met so many new people, and made lifelong friendships through this wonderful program. I've even considered going back for USAC's Verona program!!