In front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Author: Andrea Abarca | Majors: Global Studies & Political Science | Semester: Fall 2022

The experience at the Rome center is one I will never forget. With the program being part of the University of Arkansas, having classes that could fit my plan and credit that could transfer directly was a win-win. Italy is also a country I am fascinated with. It is a country with an amazing culture where art can be found in every corner. With my major in global studies and political science, I felt that it was necessary to immerse myself in another culture to better understand the world outside the US.

I wanted to improve my communication in a foreign country as well as understand how people may do things differently. There were many classes offered that could help me with this, like “To Rome with Love”, which taught us Italian language and culture. This class included immersive tours around Rome and cooking classes with Italian chefs, which helped me learn a lot more than just hearing it in lectures. Also, one class called “Global Changemakers” taught us to compare community building in Italy vs Northwest Arkansas. My teacher in this class had experience working in the UN, and was incredibly knowledgeable in social issues, a topic I am very interested in. What stood out about these classes compared to the ones in the U of A was the immersion. I may learn about a specific group of people back in Arkansas, but I will never get the exposure like I did in Rome. My classes were mostly focusing on Italy and being in the country helped me learn even more as I was able to live it in class and outside.

The culture and people of Italy were one of a kind! One of the customs that impacted me the most was the coffee culture. Coffee is like a religion in Italy as most will take many breaks to go to a bar and order their espresso. It is taken standing up and quickly. Cappuccinos are important as well but taken only in the mornings. The concept an Italian breakfast was unexpected. It was only a cappuccino and a croissant or another pastry, no big meal! The Italian train system was also one of my favorite encounters. It was easy and cheap to get around the country without the hustle of an airport. Thanks to this, I got to see many Italian cities and towns like, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Naples, and much more.

I would recommend this program to other students. Learning while abroad broadens your perspective and challenges you to think in so many ways. Some advice before starting this trip: Buy a sim card! You can avoid paying international data by buying a sim card at the airport. It is inexpensive and easy to use. Also, plan on meeting locals. Locals are the best teachers, and they will show you more of the country than what you could alone. My only regret now is not being able to study abroad for all my college experience! It is a life-changing journey that will leave a lasting impression.