Alumni Interview with Marisa R

What inspired you to go abroad?

Having the opportunity to see and experience different parts of the world while also being able to take classes seemed like a dream come true. I really wanted to immerse myself in a foreign culture and become a more well-rounded person. The study abroad program at my university is awesome with so many different programs to choose from, so I knew I could find the perfect one for me. 

Why did you choose the John Cabot University summer program?

I chose the John Cabot University summer program. I liked that it was an American university centered in Rome, Italy. This program offered a flexible schedule which allowed you to pick which semester you wanted to apply for and the amount of semesters you wanted to attend for.

It also offered classes that are required for my major so I was able to explore Italy and its surrounding countries while also taking classes that were important to me. I have always wanted to visit Italy, as that is where my ancestors are from. The country is so beautiful and each region of Italy has a different atmosphere, vibe, and landscape. 

What was your favorite part about Rome?

I can't pick a favorite part of it. I loved that our university was located in the center of Rome. I was walking distance from historical, famous, and ancient monuments. I loved that I could go to class in the morning and be able to spend the rest of the day walking around visiting the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, Vatican City, and more. I also loved the locals. Everyone was so enthusiastic and welcoming. They really helped me immerse myself into their culture and were eager to show me their way of life and cool spots to visit.

What made your experience abroad unique?

My experience was unique because instead of most programs where you stay with your university group through all your classes, my program was a lot different. There would be some classes where it was all Americans, and everyone was from a different university. And then there would be other classes where I was the only American in the class, and my peers were from all over Europe. My program was also unique from others because it was located in a historical city, which is also the capital of Italy.

How did local staff support you throughout your program?

The local staff was very helpful. During our first couple days in Rome before classes started, they walked us around and showed us where each university building was, gave us a tour of Rome, and showed us how to use the public transportation.

They recommended us useful apps for our phones, such as one that sends out safety alerts and taxi apps. They also provided us with important phone numbers such as the US Embassy in Italy. My professors always welcomed questions and gave us recommendations on places to visit, such as interesting statues and beaches, etc.

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?

I wish that I would have applied for two semesters instead of one. So many places I wanted to see, so little time. 

Describe a typical day in the life of your program.

On my walk to class, I would stop at a "bar" (what they call a cafe) and get one of the best muffins I've ever had. Then continue my walk and pass by beautiful scenery. After finishing my one class, I had a small break where I would sit on the steps of a fountain that overlooked a square. This was a meeting place for people and there was usually street performers entertaining us at the square.

After finishing my classes, I would walk with my roommates to different places, such as the Colosseum. We'd enjoy delicious pasta and wine. On our walk back, we'd somehow make room in our stomachs so we could eat the world's best gelato. Then depending on what our days looked like the next day, we would stop by local Italian bars and clubs and have fun with locals we befriended and fellow Americans.

What did you enjoy doing in your free time?

I liked spending time with the friends I made through this program. One of my favorite things to do was visit places that my Italian classmates knew about, but a tourist wouldn't think to go to—for instance, the best place to watch the sunrise in Rome. I loved visiting ancient ruins. Standing inside the Colosseum has a surreal feeling. Seeing just how big the Trevi Fountain is in person, and all the details and beautiful elements that it has. It is indescribable.

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?

My apartment was very secure and safe. To get into the building, you had to scan in with a John Cabot University ID card and there was always at least one guard stationed at the door, 24/7. There was a courtyard where people could socialize and they also had a gym which you could pay a one time fee to use. The apartment was a decent size and they provided us with everything we would need, such as plates, cups, cooking utensils, and cleaning supplies.

You had the option if you wanted to pay extra to have a room to yourself. I lived with 7 people and we had 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The location of my apartment was what I liked best because it was walking distance from everything.

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?

When you get there, branch out of your comfort zone and make friends. It makes things easier, safer, and more fun when you have a big group of friends to do things with. The people who kept to themselves saw and experienced less, and became home sick.

Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?

I have left Italy with many lifelong friendships. Before my program, I was generally more of a shy person. Since being there, I have opened up and grown more as a person. Now, I would not hesitate to go up to someone and form a relationship whether it is for a social connection or a professional one.

I am more self reliant and responsible. I am more well rounded and have a higher self awareness of different cultures and how someone's culture leads someone to make decisions, behave a certain way, and what their expectations might be about me. 

Would you recommend John Cabot University programs to others? Why?

I was recommended the John Cabot University program, and I would recommend it to others, as well. The university exceeded my high expectations. The professors were wonderful, the students were amazing, the location was perfect, the food was unreal. It was a life changing experience and I would do it again.