Music - Vocal Performance Study Abroad Programs in Rome, Italy

I greatly enjoyed my experience abroad with the Umbra Institute. The institution was super helpful in preparing to leave the United States and provided lots of information as well as a pre-departure module that gave us important information and a “what to expect” page. Umbra also has a super up to date webpage with blurbs from past student’s which was helpful for me to see others’ experiences. Upon arrival and throughout the semester, the staff made themselves readily available to help during the adjustment period and beyond. They encouraged us to travel and experience our semester to the fullest. The staff gave us recommendations and were hands on throughout the semester. Our professors are simply the best of the best and are super knowledgeable about their fields. The school environment is welcoming and comfortable for all students which allowed me to feel equipped for learning and experimentation. There were endless ways to get involved throughout the semester through community engagement classes, volunteer opportunities, and small group involvement. I was apart of the Umbra Reps program which was a small group of six students who helped with student activities and involvement throughout the semester. I felt like I have been able to really immerse in the culture of Perugia and experience many places this semester. I will truly miss this place and this staff so much!!

Studying abroad through IES this past fall in Milan, Italy was one of the best experiences of my life. Although it sounds cliche, studying abroad really does change you for the better. Going to Italy on a plane alone leaving my family and friends behind seemed nerve racking but as soon as I stepped out of the airport into my taxi, I knew I was going to love it there. Milan was such an amazing city to study in; the food was delicious, the people were friendly and the duomo got even more beautiful every time I went to see it. Studying abroad through IES added to my experience even more. I was placed in a traditional Italian apartment in a perfect location in the city with the greatest roommates who I grew so close to over the course of the semester. I was also able to bond with my community assistant who acted as a mentor and friend throughout my time in Milan. She was from Italy herself and was able to help my roommates and I adjust to life in a foreign country. The transition from life in the US to life in Italy went very smoothly thanks to all of the resources IES provided us. Throughout my time in Milan I was able to study Italian, History of the Mafia and Fashion and Brand Management as well intern twice a week at a tech startup. Not only was I able to take classes so relevant to my host city, I had the opportunity to work there as well. Overall this experience taught me so much about myself. I have become much more independent, spontaneous and open as a result of this journey. I am so grateful I had such an amazing opportunity to study abroad and I hope to see you soon, Milano!