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<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>I wanted to experience another culture and work as a volunteer. I was studying the Italian language and culture at the university.</p>
<p>So, I decided I wanted to spend a summer abroad volunteering and experiencing a language and cultural exchange. Then I found this program online and never looked back. I would recommend any like-minded people to try it.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1700718558/images2/interviews/3JHBU8JAbI9cCeLJlTvDUF1WRWKXTD48Y4WOXRRZ.jpg" alt="Group photo at a table."><div class="caption"><p>Having some group fun during the International Experience program at You Can Camp in 2023.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-experience-srl rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>International Experience Srl</ins></a>?</h3>
<p>I had a particular interest in Italy and exchanging languages and cultures with Italians. I visited Italy as a young teenager and then I became interested in learning the language and culture.</p>
<p>This program gave me the opportunity to do both and volunteer my time helping someone others. I have been involved for many years and will continue.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about your host country/city?</h3>
<p>The people. The people I have met through this program have been so kind, understanding, charismatic, and responsible. A close second is the food, but without the consideration and attentiveness of the program's staff, it wouldn't have been such a beautiful experience so for this. That’s why I consider my relationships the most important part.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1700718558/images2/interviews/aQklX5Cz7g8IhPvP3yk6adXPpB6uf1EKgRYKTLbb.jpg" alt="Polaroid photo of two people."><div class="caption"><p>Keepsakes from the You Can Camp in 2023. It was an unforgettable international experience.</p></div></div>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>The most extraordinary part was the experience of watching Italian children and teenagers improve and become more interested in the English language. Although the camp only lasted a week with the participants, we spent 7 days together for the majority of the day and evening, creating projects in English and sharing a special bond.</p>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>They supported me in every aspect of the program from travel, the teaching experience, cultural/language barriers, etc. Of course, they were the hardest working out of everyone involved and they provided a great support system for me and my fellow volunteers. They always do their best to accommodate all of the participants.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>I can't think of anything I would do differently. I would probably bring more clothes for outdoor activities including special shoes, but to be honest, I am not a very demanding person so I easily enjoyed the minimal lifestyle that the camp provides for 2-4 weeks. I would recommend it to anyone looking to get away from the stress and pressure of everyday life and have a good time.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>First, I wake up in the morning around 8, have a nice Italian breakfast, and prepare for the day including language activities and games. Then we would have language stations where we played and taught different aspects of the English language, followed by lunch, and then pool time. Dinner and free time were included in the evening as well as big activities with the entire camp.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1700718559/images2/interviews/sf3NTM37nZexFsb9j775squuvUo5KR1tk7QoSTkT.jpg" alt="Group photo in a field."><div class="caption"><p>Group photo of us out and about having a great time at You Can Camp in 2023.</p></div></div>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>Going to the pool, playing ping-pong and other fun games with the participants and tutors, and traveling to the nearby seaside town. I enjoyed just making strong bonds with the volunteers, the staff, and especially the Italian children and teens who are involved with the program. There is never a dull moment.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>The accommodations are quite camp in a camp style cabins. My favorite part is that they were all near or connected to the next cabin so it feels like a little community. The camp is basically cabins in the woods so sometimes there are some insects, but it's not real camping so all of the amenities like bathrooms and private shared space were a part of it.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>This isn't a luxury experience, but it is rich in things that money can't buy and almost everyone who participates leaves feeling like they've grown and shared a special part of themselves for the better. The experience can be as rewarding for the volunteers as it can be for the Italian participants.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-experience-srl rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>International Experience Srl</ins></a> to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, without a doubt. It is a gratifying program that is well managed but with enough freedom to express yourself creatively. There is a structure and program to follow, but the staff are happy for people to use their own experiences and minds to create more and share different ways to exchange language and culture.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1700718560/images2/interviews/66JJ6GT2FFQ3MImEqqnaqI4wwWBPnLncObGG0ytP.jpg" alt="Group photo at night."><div class="caption"><p>We all had a really fun night together with the group for the You Can Camp International Experience program.</p></div></div>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>Sharing cultures and changing one's perspective on life and lifelong friends. I have kept in contact with many staff members, participants, and volunteers over the years and it's nice to have this unique experience that only we experienced. The friendships are deep and the impact is big for Italian teenagers and children.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>It has changed for the better. I am more open-minded; in fact, this experience changed the entire trajectory of my life as now I live and teach English in Naples, Italy. My choice to move abroad is directly related to my experience with the International Experience program and for this, I am eternally grateful.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel means being brave and taking risks to do something and go somewhere you have never been before and in reward, one will walk away with shared experiences and adventures that are priceless. On top of this, there is something so gratifying about giving your time and energy without expecting a payment at the end.</p>


Joseph Heinrich

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Joseph Heinrich who participated in International Experience Srl program.

Joseph Heinrich | International Experience Srl Alumni Interview

International Experience Srl Alumni Interview with Joseph Heinrich

<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>What inspired me to go abroad was my love for travel and my love for teaching. I have always been obsessed with travel, ever since I was a kid. I was sure I wanted to go to Italy because I had gone the previous summer but I only got to see Venice, so I wanted another opportunity to see more of Italy.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-experience-srl rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>You Can Camp</ins></a>?</h3>
<p>I chose You Can Camp because I looked at the website and watched the videos from previous years and it looked like a camp I really wanted to be a part of. Then, I had an interview with one of the directors and after she explained everything about how the camp works, I felt You Can Camp was the perfect place to volunteer for the summer.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1700718812/images2/interviews/PAb1TlHeKrnzJiXFkvbVy1Ju0kjExTf5akufuJKM.jpg" alt="The counselors"><div class="caption"><p>The counselors at You Can Camp on the Explore Italy and become a camp counselor program!</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about your host country/city?</h3>
<p>It’s hard to pick just one thing to be my favorite part of Cupra Maritima, but I loved how peaceful it was. It was really nice to get away from the craziness of the big cities and be in the countryside. The town outside the camp is also really good, we got to go to the beach and walk around the main town square.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>What made my experience abroad extraordinary was getting to meet so many cool people from different parts of the world. It’s amazing how quickly you bond with the other counselors and by the end of the 2 weeks, it feels like we’ve all known each other for 2 years. It was also amazing to see the kid’s progress in their English language skills.</p>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff supported us by providing us with everything that we needed for every activity we did or game that we played, they were also always present during group activities and regular ESL games so as a counselor you’re never really alone. Also during orientation, we practice many of the games and activities, so usually, you're familiar with them before you do it with the kids.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1700718813/images2/interviews/XmqoaQ5KXFLUx82l7VZywnEIIsjDrcfwaWFXIcPb.jpg" alt="Group selfies"><div class="caption"><p>The final day of camp was bittersweet. Sad to say goodbye, but happy it happened.</p></div></div>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>It’s hard to think of something I would do differently, I really feel like I made the most of my time at camp, but I guess I would have to say I wish I had taken time during break to socialize more during the breaks we had during the day, but I was usually tired so I would take a quick nap during break time.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day at camp was waking up at 8:30 am, and eating breakfast by 9 am. Then we had our morning ESL games and worked on video projects. Lunch was at 1:00 pm and lasted an hour, then the free time from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.</p>
<p>Then we had afternoon ESL games for an hour and a half followed by pool time. Dinner was at 8:00 pm and after dinner was a different activity every night, talent show, scavenger hunt, etc.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time, I traveled to different parts of Italy; Rome, Milan, Napoli, and Calabria. I made some really good friends at the camp and a few of us actually traveled to Rome together when the camp finished and did some sightseeing for a few days. I recommend taking advantage of being in Italy and traveling either before or after the camp.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>The accommodation was at country house una, which is a huge piece of property with a restaurant/dining hall, a soccer field, a huge pool, cabins, and a lot of open space for other outdoor activities. The thing I liked most about it was the view. It overlooks the ocean and it was beautiful to wake up every morning and look at an ocean view.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>I think everyone should know it’s okay to be a little nervous at first, everyone else is in the same boat as you. Everyone’s coming to a new place, far from home and meeting new people, doing something completely new for the first time, but after the first two days, you’ll feel right at home at You Can Camp.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1700718814/images2/interviews/sBcZB8N8R6Kfai7GgGEM3WsJlvK74uGE8CaD7ro9.jpg" alt="Group photo outside."><div class="caption"><p>The view from camp was beautiful! The camp counselors loved it in particular.</p></div></div>
<h3>Would you recommend <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-experience-srl rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>You Can Camp</ins></a> to others? Why?</h3>
<p>I would definitely recommend the program to others because it really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Also, the amount of support the counselors receive from the directors and the local staff is really helpful. Anyone who is already in teaching/coaching or thinking about going into teaching should consider applying as it would help build the schools necessary to work with kids and teens.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>I think there are many benefits to traveling abroad, but the biggest one is probably meeting new people. As an American, it was really cool for me to be around people from Italy, England, Ireland, Scotland, Canada, South Africa, and a few other countries. Any type of travel is always an opportunity to broaden your horizons.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>Now that I’m home, my life has been impacted by my time abroad because I have returned home with a bunch of amazing new memories that will last a lifetime. I also teach ESL students at my full-time job here in the States, so I use some of the fun games and activities that we did at camp for my students here.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>For me, meaningful travel is travel outside of just going somewhere and sightseeing. It’s about going to a new place and immersing yourself in the culture. That usually includes travel king somewhere outside of the typical tourist destinations and may also include living or working with locals.</p>


Thomas Batjiaka

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Thomas Batjiaka who participated in International Experience Srl program.

Thomas Batjiaka | International Experience Srl Alumni Interview

International Experience Srl Alumni Interview with Thomas Batjiaka


<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3><p>I was inspired when I had finished a six month teaching contract in Australia and a close friend of mine had come back from teaching with ACLE. She would not stop raving about how good it was and how much she missed the experience already. That alone, inspired me to go abroad.</p><figure class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://www5.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto2-andremosca-1539303591.jpg" alt="Group of people posing together during hike"><figcaption class="caption"><p>Hiking through Bajardo with my fellow tutors&nbsp;</p><p></p></figcaption></figure><h3>Why did you choose ACLE?</h3><p>I chose this organization because through thorough research and personal recommendation it seemed like an extremely solid choice.</p><h3>What was your favorite part about Rome?</h3><p>Being able to practice my Italian language skills and also taking in all of the local cultures of different regions.</p><h3>What made your experience abroad unique?</h3><p>My experience was made unique because it was my first ever traveling alone. Something that originally was a very scary leap for me, became one of the greatest adventures of my life.</p><figure class="awesome-image right-aligned" style="width: 50%;"><img style="" src="http://www5.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto4-andremosca-1539303622.jpg" alt="Group of people posing together while getting gelato"><figcaption class="caption"><p>End of the day planning finished, now off to get some reward gelato!</p><p></p></figcaption></figure><h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3><p>Local staff supported me with many things including but not limited to: transportation (tickets and itineraries), accommodation, budgeting, and social networking.</p><h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?</h3><p>I wish I did it sooner.</p><h3>Describe a typical day in the life of your program.</h3><p>Wake up to a smiling host family that&rsquo;s happy to see you and have the breakfast they have so carefully laid out just for you. Go to school to meet a wonderful team of young adults just like you who are enthusiastic to get going. Greet the kids who are even more enthusiastic than you are to learn English through fun, music, and dance.</p><p>Spend all afternoon with your class, building relationships with students who value you so much, encouraging students to be tenacious, and appealing to their competitiveness in English. And finally returning home after a long day of fun and hard goodbyes. And then make plans for tomorrow.</p><p>Then, once home I'm greeted by my lovely host family who want nothing more than to relax with me and make sure I am having the best experience possible.</p><h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time?</h3><p>I enjoyed playing music and singing with my host family. On occasion I would help out around the house&mdash;much to my host mum's protesting.</p><h3>What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?</h3><p>Accommodation wise, I loved that I got to stay with a real family, in a real house. Something about that made me feel much less homesick for Australia.</p><figure class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://www5.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto3-andremosca-1539303675.jpg" alt="Group of people posing together"><figcaption class="caption"><p>Me and our team at the school including: tutors, directors and helpers.&nbsp;</p><p></p></figcaption></figure><p><span style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: 21px; font-weight: bold;">What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?</span><br></p><p>Come in with an open mind, don&rsquo;t hold onto judgement for anyone, lose your pride, and be silly!</p><h3>What was the hardest part about teaching abroad?</h3><p>The hardest part of teaching abroad would have to be minimizing your luggage. A lot of the time I would have to prioritize necessities when packing so that I wasn't carrying around a huge suitcase&nbsp;</p><h3>What is one thing you wish you would have known before teaching abroad?</h3><p>To be honest, before I left I got as much advice from friends and family as possible by asking this same question. Therefore, I don't really think I wish I knew anything else beforehand, I was really well prepared!</p><figure class="awesome-image left-aligned" style="width: 50%;"><img style="" src="http://www5.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto1-andremosca-1539303731.jpg" alt="Man and host brother posing in selfie"><figcaption class="caption"><p>Me and my host brother in Orvieto!&nbsp;</p><p></p></figcaption></figure><h3>If you could teach abroad again, where would you go?</h3><p>I plan to perhaps teach in Japan in the future or maybe even return to Europe for a second time.</p><h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of teaching abroad is?</h3><p>The biggest benefit of teaching abroad would have to be the beautiful friendships and relationships you make along the way, I now have a new friend from almost every part of the world which is really cool! Not to mention a family that misses me in most major cities of Italy.</p><h3>Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?</h3><p>I feel so fired up for the next time I travel. My social skills have gotten so much better, my Italian speaking confidence has improved dramatically, and I have a clear view on what I want to do in life.</p><h3>Would you recommend ACLE to others? Why?</h3><p>Absolutely, I already have. It is the single greatest experience I have ever had the honor of being a part of.</p>


Andre Mosca

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Andre Mosca who participated in Associazione Culturale Linguistica Educational (A.C.L.E) program.

Andre Mosca | Associazione Culturale Linguistica Educational (...

Andre Mosca - 2018 Program Participant


<h3><span class="s1">What inspired you to go abroad?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I have recently been interested in exploring other countries and cultures, specifically after my best friends came home from a semester abroad in India. I wanted something that would put me out of my comfort zone and allow me to discover how vast the world is around me.</span></p><figure class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn2.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto1-lupinek-1471516696.png" alt="Man holding an American flag standing on a beach in Salerno, Italy"><figcaption class="caption">"From Sea to Shining Sea" in Salerno, Italy on the Fourth of July</figcaption></figure><h3><span class="s1">Why did you choose A.C.L.E?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I discovered A.C.L.E. through the help of my career center at college and my own research. At first glance, it all seemed too good to be true; <i>was it really possible that I could live abroad in Italy, live with host families, travel to different parts of the country, teach English through theatre, and receive a study grant for my work?!</i> It was a dream come true.</span></p><blockquote><span class="s1">I fell in love with both the professionalism of the company and their devotion to making a difference in the lives of children and young adults from around the world.</span></blockquote><h3><span class="s1">What was your favorite part about Italy?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I immediately gravitated toward the rich culture and history of Italy. Every street is filled with beautiful architecture and natural landmarks. I could spend days walking around the same city, because at every turn there was something new to find.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The food...<i>oh the food</i>. I can't begin to describe how incredible the food was around Italy. What made the cuisine even more special was how it differed from region to region. From pasta to pizza, I couldn't get enough.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Italy felt like home. My host families were just that, family. They were warm and inviting, and made sure that I was always taken care of. They shared with me their culture and allowed me to share with them mine.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What made your experience abroad unique?&nbsp;</span></h3><p class="p3"><span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span">	</span></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">A.C.L.E. is a company that sees the value of allowing someone to explore all parts of Italy, and they made it possible to both work and travel throughout my summer abroad. I would work in a city for one of two weeks at a time, at which time I would be moved to a completely different area around Italy, depending on where I was needed. I was able to see the beauty of both the North and South of Italy, and I had the chance to visit cities that I otherwise would not have had the privilege of seeing if it weren't for A.C.L.E. and their desire for me to truly witness all Italy has to offer.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">How did local staff support you throughout your program?&nbsp;</span></h3><p class="p3"><span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span">	</span></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The staff was professional from the beginning to the end. They made it a priority to make sure that I was well-informed and comfortable along the way. If I had any questions or concerned, I knew that I could rely on them for support and guidance. The staff does an incredible amount of work in such a short time period. They are organized and are knowledgeable about what works well to succeed in their goals. I greatly admire them for all they have down and continue to do for the organization.</span></p><figure class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn4.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto2-lupinek-1471516730.png" alt="View of Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy"><figcaption class="caption">Florence, Italy</figcaption></figure><h3><span class="s1">What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">If there is anything that I wish I would have done differently, it would have been to plan pre- and post- program travel plans. I left for the United States the day after my last camp ended, which I believe was a mistake. I wish I would have taken some time to enjoy Italy one last time before my departure.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Now that I am home, I miss Italy every day and think about everything I have witnessed and experienced constantly. It isn't that I think having more time to explore would have changed the nostalgia I feel now, but I honestly can say I could live and explore the beautiful Italy forever, and I wish I would have taken more time to do so.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">Describe a typical day in the life of your program.</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">My job consisted of teaching English to children through hands-on games, songs, and activities that were engaging, energetic, and educational. Each morning the tutors would teach kids fun and silly English songs to the children in what we call a "morning circle". It was a great way to get the children motivated and moving, and provided a lot of laughs and bonding between tutors and children.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The rest of the morning would typically be individuals lessons lead by tutors based on the age level that were teaching for that week. In these lessons, children would learn about English grammar, vocabulary, etc., through specific themes for their level (for example, the levels and themes I taught were Level 1: Circus, Level 3: Courageous Knight, Level 5: Secret Agents).</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">In the afternoons, there would typically be large group games and activities, such as something A.C.L.E. calls "Tribal Games". During Tribal Games, levels were mixed into teams and teams competed throughout the week in various games that would earn their team points. There was also the ability to have excursions and water game days based on the desires of the camp director.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">On the last Friday of camp, there would be a final show for the parents, in which the children would perform small plays and songs to showcase what they learned and loved from the week.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What did you enjoy doing in your free time?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">In my free time, I was able to connect with the other tutors for an occasional (or more than occasional) gelato, spend time with my host family, who would often go out of their way to show me their city or the nearest larger city, and would spend many weekends taking day trips to surrounding cities that I wouldn't otherwise have had the opportunity to see. I had more free time than I originally thought I would, which was nice because kids wear you out fast! It was nice to able to unwind with my friends or my host family during the nights and weekends.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">How did you like staying with host families in Italy? What did it add to your overall experience?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I absolutely loved staying with host families; I had the best experience staying with loving and welcoming families who wanted to show me their cultures and in turn wanted to learn about mine. In most cases, host families are the family of a child who is going to the camp that participants work at for the week. This was a great way to connect with the children in a different environment that was more laid-back and casual. In every case, I had families that were pleased to have me, and made sure that all of my needs were taken care of. They always made sure that I was comfortable and was enjoying my stay, which made me feel at home right away.</span></p><figure class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn2.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto3-lupinek-1471516752.png" alt="Gondola in a canal in Venice, Italy"><figcaption class="caption">Venetian &ldquo;roads&rdquo;</figcaption></figure><h3><span class="s1">What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?&nbsp;</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Don't be afraid to let go! It was scary for me, as someone who was traveling abroad for the first time, and I think that got the best of me in the beginning. I wish I would have internally accepted the experience a little sooner. It is overwhelming, and that is okay. But it is important to learn to grow from being out of your comfort zone and being put in situations that are very new.</span></p><blockquote><span class="s1">Every day is a learning experience! When you can let your guard down enough to see the amazing places around you, you forget how scary everything can seem, and instead begin to enjoy the beauty of it all.</span></blockquote><h3><span class="s1">Now that you're home, how has your time in Italy impacted your life?</span>&nbsp;</h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">As cliche as it sounds, I see the world differently. I notice just how vastly different we tend to do or approach things in the United States. It really is a different world here. Especially with the election this year, my time abroad has made me realize how much the world watches the United States; all eyes are on us. For good or for ill, our music, movies, and our social fads are often followed by other countries. I don't think we often realize just how much we influence the world around us. I now realize the impact of we have and continue to promote our country.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">Would you recommend your program to others? Why?</span></h3><p>





































































</p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">If you want to have the best time of your life, I recommend this program for you. I have made memories and friends for life, and my time traveling abroad and solely relying on myself in new and uncomfortable situations has led me to learn an incredible amount about just who I am as a person. Thank you A.C.L.E. for this opportunity, and for your love of sharing Italy with the world!</span></p>


Andy Lupinek

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Andy Lupinek who participated in Associazione Culturale Linguistica Educational (A.C.L.E) program.

Andy Lupinek | Associazione Culturale Linguistica Educational ...

Andy Lupinek - 2016 Program Participant


<h3><span class="s1">Why did you choose to go abroad with The English Camp Company?&nbsp;</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I have been involved in education and the study of European culture for years. The ECC is a marriage of the two.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What was your favorite part about Italy and Austria?&nbsp;</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I loved the authentic experiences. The ECC is established exclusively in small Italian/Austrian towns, often satellites of some metropolis. There is no better way to experience local culture. These insulated communities, outside the influence of tourist dollars, have yet to succumb to McDonald's, English, and Walmart.</span></p><div class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn1.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto1-lynn-1460638347.jpg" alt="







Exploring Austria on bicycles"><div class="caption"><p>Exploring Austria</p></div></div><h3><span class="s1">&nbsp;What makes the program you participated in unique?&nbsp;</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Locomotion. Every two weeks, a new train ticket arrives with your name on it; it is a surprise every time. With a rough itinerary, you brave the rails in search of a new location. It forces you to be independent, gives you the opportunity to practice language, and shows you Europe by train.</span></p><h3>What role did local staff play in your stay with The English Camp Company?&nbsp;</h3><p class="p2"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Rarely did I feel isolated with the ECC. Host families are busy bending over backwards to make you feel at home and each camp is staffed with fluent English speakers. However, this is an itinerant job, and some may still feel estranged. Just keep in mind you always have a support network willing to lend a hand and those not on site are never more than a phone call away.</span></p><h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?&nbsp;</h3><p class="p2"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Spoken more Italian! I was there for months and did not make enough of an effort. My listening comprehension went through roof and I can order an espresso like a champ, but overall it was an opportunity squandered.</span></p><div class="awesome-image left-aligned" style="width: 300px;"><img style="" src="http://cdn4.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto2-lynn-1460638368.jpg" alt="







Teaching teens in Austria"><div class="caption"><p>Higher education</p></div></div><h3>How would you describe your average day with The English Camp Company?&nbsp;</h3><p class="p2"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">At 8 a.m., I would wake to the patter of feet and peals of laughter that come in a house of children. After freshening up, I would join breakfast, "<i>buongiorno!</i>" echoing all around. (Italian breakfast: hot milk with coffee (latte) and cookies or cake. Austrian breakfast: cold cuts and bread.) After breakfast, the children and I pile into the family car and ride with Mom or Dad to camp.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The Italian sun is already stifling. Upon arrival, I greet parents and children (now exclusively in English) and prepare my materials for the day's lesson. At 9 a.m. camp begins. All children are marshalled onto the grounds and tutors lead the group in song for at least half an hour. ALL TUTORS MUST SING! Games follow songs and then it is class time. The next seven hours are punctuated by English class, group games and activities, and snack breaks.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">At the end of camp, the day is far from over. Mom or Dad arrive to chauffeur us home and the family prepares for the evening. Family outings, often with another tutor and their family, are quite frequent. Visiting Rome, seeing a play, swimming in the Mediterranean, or dinner with friends often lasts until late in the night. When I am finally stumbling back to bed "<i>buena notte</i>" it is with relish and exhaustion.</span></p><h3>What did you enjoy most about your time abroad?</h3><p class="p2"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Eating! Meal time was by far my favorite time of the day. The authenticity of grandma's homemade spaghetti noodles or Knoedel eaten on a farm is unmatched in restaurant cuisine. At the dinner table is where cultural connoisseurs will find their fix.</span></p><h3>What were your accommodations like? What did you like best about it?&nbsp;</h3><p class="p2"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Accommodations change with the family. I always had my own bedroom and a place to prepare my lessons, but some houses were more lavish than others. Living with these families was great because it was a peek behind the curtain. A look into the lives of others that taught me things stereotypes and generalizations strive and fail to elucidate.</span></p><div class="awesome-image right-aligned" style="width: 300px;"><img style="" src="http://cdn2.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto4-lynn-1460638396.jpg" alt="







Showing off Lederhosen, or leather breeches"><div class="caption"><p>Lederhosen</p></div></div><h3>What was the hardest part about teaching abroad?</h3><p class="p2"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The hardest part for me was (as you might think) the language barrier. We take for granted the ease with which we converse with others. While teaching abroad, you rarely find someone who is masterfully fluent in English. Many people are able to hold a conversation, but it's not the same. You tread carefully, choosing your words for clarity, speaking slowly, and facilitating the language on both sides. You don't realize how cumbersome this is until you happen across a fellow native speaker and you slip into the conversation like a warm bath; speed, inflection, idiom, and frivolity abound.</span></p><h3>What surprised you most about Italy or Austria?</h3><p class="p2"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Italy is a place of personability, if you'll allow me the adlib. I was always surprised to find how willing perfect strangers were to put their hands on me. I was pinched, smacked, and clapped on the back more in two months than in the entire rest of my life. People really want to know you.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Austria is surprisingly like America. Stereotypes aside, both cultures put a premium on orderliness, cleanliness, technology, and economics. I often found myself thinking how remarkably American the suburbs, shopping malls, and city streets appeared to be.</span></p><h3>What is one thing you wish you would have known before teaching abroad in Italy and Austria?&nbsp;</h3><p class="p2"><span class="s1"></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I wish I had known how perpetually hot it is in Italy. I was fully aware of the blazing Italian summers, but I still found myself unprepared for torrents of sweat that I would endure. Tank tops and breathable cotton! They'll save your life.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">&nbsp;Do you have any packing tips for individuals headed to Europe?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I've traveled most of western Europe at this point and two things have been essential to my travels: good shoes and vacuum bags. You're going to walk like you're training for a marathon. Do your feet a favor and wear good shoes. And if you truly want get the best of every inch in that new backpack, get vacuum bags that seal when rolled up. Your clothes won't wrinkle and your bag will have twice the room for souvenirs.</span></p><div class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn3.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto3-lynn-1460638420.jpg" alt="







Hallstatt, a village in Austria"><div class="caption"><p>Visiting Hallstatt</p></div></div><h3><span class="s1">How did your time with The English Camp Company change you as a person?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">My outlook is forever broadened. There are so many great things in the world and with a little effort anyone can take part in them.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">Would you recommend The English Camp Company to other teachers?</span></h3><p>




























































</p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I recommend the ECC to anyone who is looking for an amazing, truly immersive, cross-cultural experience and isn't afraid of some hard work.</span></p>


Derek Lynn

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Derek Lynn who participated in The English Camp Company program.

Derek Lynn | The English Camp Company Alumni Interview

Derek Lynn - 2015 Program Participant


<h3><span class="s1">Why did you decide to apply for an international program?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I chose to volunteer teach abroad for the experience of being in a classroom on the other side of learning a second language. I have studied Italian for the past four years, both at my home university and abroad, and I am very interested in how individuals learn and teach a second language, particularly English. I plan to study and work in international education in the future and I wanted a more concrete and independent experience abroad.</span></p><div class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn1.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto4-ball-1454659028.jpg" alt="







View of the Alps in Italy"><div class="caption"><p>The beautiful Italian Alps.</p></div></div><h3><span class="s1">Why did you choose Greenheart Travel?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I chose my program through Greenheart Travel for the opportunity to teach school-aged children in Italy, which is often hard to find. My program guaranteed a teaching placement and homestay accommodation throughout the duration of the program, which gave me the support I needed. The program also offered a short-term, three month placement, which is exactly what I was looking for to get my feet wet teaching abroad.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What was your favorite part about Torino?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I was located right outside of Torino, the capital of the Piemonte region in Northern Italy. It was great to be near a large city, but enjoy the comforts of suburban life throughout the week. I studied abroad in Rome and traveled throughout Italy, but I had yet to explore Northern Italy, and I enjoyed learning about and experiencing the culture of a new region. The scenery is beautiful and the lifestyle is considerably different than that of the rest of Italy. Still, Torino is a relatively small city which made international travel a bit difficult and pricier.</span></p><div class="awesome-image right-aligned" style="width: 300px;"><img style="" src="http://cdn3.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto1-ball-1454659078.jpg" alt="







International teacher with her students in Italy"><div class="caption"><p>A class photo with my fifth grade students!</p></div></div><h3><span class="s1">What aspects of your program made it unique?&nbsp;</span></h3><p class="p3"><span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span">	</span></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">It is unique in that it offers you a three month placement in a school. In researching teaching placements abroad, I found mostly summer camps, homestay teaching placements, or jobs teaching adults.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">How was the support you received during your program?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Greenheart Travel is an extremely supportive and helpful organization.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I would have come a bit more prepared with lesson plans and materials to save time once in Italy. Italian classrooms generally do not use or have access to as much technology and multimedia resources as their American counterparts, and I wish I had researched more creative ways to present lessons in the classroom beforehand. As a bit of advice, I recommend obtaining a TEFL certification beforehand, I am glad I had that under my belt before starting this experience.</span></p><div class="awesome-image left-aligned" style="width: 300px;"><img style="" src="http://cdn3.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto2-ball-1454659136.jpg" alt="







An alleyway in Torino, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>My new home, Torino!</p></div></div><h3><b><span class="s1">Describe a day in the life of your program.</span>&nbsp;</b></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Day by day my schedule was different as I worked at three different schools with a total of five different teachers, five different levels, and 17 individual classes; a typical day really didn't exist! I would teach anywhere from two to six hours a day, depending on my schedule.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What did you like to do on your free time?&nbsp;</span></h3><p class="p3"><span class="s1"><span class="Apple-tab-span">	</span></span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Any of the activities I did with my host family were memorable parts of my experience. They were incredibly generous in that they invited me to family functions and brought me many places around Torino and in the Alps for day trips. My most memorable experience was a day spent hiking in the Alps with them and their friends. Even spending time with them watching movies and hanging out was great.</span></p><div class="awesome-image right-aligned" style="width: 300px;"><img style="" src="http://cdn3.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto3-ball-1454659195.jpg" alt="







Friends sightseeing in Brussels, Belgium"><div class="caption"><p>A weekend trip to Brussels with other volunteer teachers!</p></div></div><h3><span class="s1">What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I lived with a host family within walking distance of two of my schools and within a bus ride of Torino. I couldn't have asked for a more generous and giving family that truly made me feel at home. My experience wouldn't have been the same without them and they were certainly the best part!</span></p><h3><span class="s1">Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</span></h3><p>













































</p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">My program has given me the reassurance that I want to pursue international education as a career and that I want to one day work in study abroad and exchange. I am grateful for the experience of teaching in a classroom, and I hope to have a similar experience abroad soon. As with any experience abroad, I now feel more independent and confident in my decision making and future travels.</span></p>


Alexa Ball

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Alexa Ball who participated in Greenheart Travel program.

Alexa Ball | Greenheart Travel Alumni Interview

Alexa Ball - 2015 Program Participant

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>
<h3></h3>
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The English Camp Company tutors of 2015"><div class="caption"><p>2015 English Camp tutors</p></div></div>
<p><span style="color: inherit;font-size: 21px;font-family: inherit;">Why did you decide to apply for an international program?</span><br></p>
<p>&nbsp;<span style="color: inherit;font-family: inherit;">The thought of going abroad had always interested me. We go through so many days in life doing the same things; the summer is a great opportunity to expand your horizons and try something new and unfamiliar. Meeting people from around the world, learning new languages, and travelling can increase your marketability substantially. I wanted to become an even greater leader in life. Leaders travel the world, leaders are open-minded, leaders learn languages, and can adjust and be open and willing adjust to life abroad.</span></p>
<h3><span style="color: inherit;font-family: inherit;">Why did you choose The English Camp Company in Italy and Austria? </span></h3>
<p>The English Camp Company stands out alone by its <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-english-camp-company#reviews/0/0 rel="" target="_self" className="link">reviews</a> and reputation <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-english-camp-company rel="" target="_self" className="link">on GoAbroad.com</a>. The support, communication, and social aspect of the program contribute to its amazing organizational structure.</p>
<p>Italia is one of the most visited places in the world. When I think of the country I reminisce on the days of gladiators; individuals who risked their lives for Italia to thrive for centuries. The beauty of Italy and Austria are undeniable.</p>
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English teachers and Italian students holding an American flag"><div class="caption"><p>Fourth of July in Italy!</p></div></div>
<h3><strong>What was your favorite part about your location? </strong></h3>
<p>There were multiple locations. Through The English Camp Company program, you have access to many locations throughout Italy and Austria; you may be on the far eastern coast of Italy for two weeks, and then relocate to the far western coast afterwards. It gives you a unique perspective of Italia’s economy and social life. Throughout the summer, Italia’s sights are breathtaking. Travelling by train can help you take in its natural beauty and come to appreciate the massive land mass and coastal beaches.</p>
<h3><strong>What makes traveling abroad with The English Camp Company unique?</strong></h3>
<p>Every two weeks, I stayed with a new host family in a different Italian city. Each host family was amazing, and they all wanted to take me to dozens of places and show me off to their relatives; it was great. They were all amazing and treated me as one of the family. I have many of them as friends on social media, and plan to meet with one of my previous host families in New York in December.<br></p>
<h3><strong>How did the local staff support you throughout your program? </strong></h3>
<p>Ashleigh and Nate, who organize the program, are SO professional and organized. The support is unbelievable. Before even reporting to your destination in Italy you're given much advice and information to help you. All camp tutors are given their train ticket to the next location well ahead of time before camps, and each location has its unique customs and entertainment. Support during orientation was fabulous! You're given all the needed information and questions asked well before stepping foot into a classroom by yourself and you are truly well prepared for your entire summer.</p>
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American man celebrating the Fourth of July in Italy"><div class="caption"><p>America Day (July 4th) in Italia!</p></div></div>
<h3><strong>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently? </strong></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Honestly, the only thing I can think of is learning Italian beforehand. It is not required, but truly makes life outside of teaching much easier, especially with host families. However, the cultural exchange is one of a kind. If you go into the program without language skills, learning a new language and culture is a challenge, but it's very rewarding, and your time spent will still be well worth it.</p>
<h3><strong>What was a typical day like for you during your program?</strong></h3>
<p>My typical day includes: wake up, brush teeth, and breakfast prepared by the host family, as I thank them for their generosity and help my host mother prepare lunch for myself and host brother/sister. Then it's off to camp! Some camps I was at provided a bicycle to my host family for me to ride to camp (such an incredible experience and test of physical capability).</p>
<p>Camp begins with a big circle of English songs and games (my FAVORITE part of the day), then to the classrooms to teach. In the afternoon, we hold games, arts/crafts, etc. After camp ends, we ride home with our italian host family and enjoy whatever the beautiful day in Italia has to offer. Sometimes we go to beaches, restaurants, parks, mountains, clubs, etc. It's such an amazing unique experience with your class, The English Camp Company, and your fellow English tutors with you at camp.</p>
<h3><strong>What did you like to do on your free time? </strong></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>My favorite activity was definitely going to the beach. There are so many beaches near the east and west coast. Since you get to travel every two weeks, you're almost guaranteed to visit at least once! AHHH it's just an incredible summer!</p>
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Tourists at Flavian Amphitheater in Naples, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>Flavian Amphitheater in its natural beauty with the English camp tutors!</p></div></div>
<h3><strong>What was your favorite part about your accommodation?</strong></h3>
<p>We stayed with host families throughout the duration of the program, except for orientation. Staying with host families is amazing! My number one reason for going to Italy was for the cultural immersion, and visiting with my host mother/father(s) was great. They fill you up with scrumptious natural Italian food, drinks, etc.</p>
<h3><strong>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</strong></h3>
<p>Whenever you travel abroad, you'll always return with a more open mind. Understanding that every continent and country has their own way of life, in terms of pace of everyday activity, timeliness, family cohesion, etc., is essential. Getting the opportunity during the summer to experience life abroad is one that you will never forget!</p>


Thomas Johnson

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Thomas Johnson who participated in The English Camp Company program.

Thomas Johnson | The English Camp Company Alumni Interview

The English Camp Company Alumni Interview with Thomas Johnson

<p></p>
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Two friends eating at a restaurant in Italy"><div class="caption"><p>Italian food is the best.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why did you decide to apply for an international program?</h3>
<p></p>
<p>I have always had an incredible longing to visit many countries in Europe which house incredible beauty and history. During the latter half of my senior year in college, I decided to procrastinate on writing a research paper and research backpacking through Europe and other such trips instead. I thought that traveling would be the ultimate present to myself; I could celebrate my graduation by seeing Europe.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, I quickly realized that all my friends were married, and I had no travel buddy willing to go with me. I wanted to travel so badly, but I was under the impression that it would be incredibly difficult to go abroad alone. Also, though I was considering teaching, I wasn’t ready to commit to more school for something that I wasn’t sure I truly wanted to do.</p>
<p>During this crazy time, I came across the teaching assistant/language tutor opportunity from InterExchange. It seemed like the culmination of all my hopes and desires: a program that would provide me with a little teaching experience and the opportunity to travel. Actually, it seemed too good to be true because it offered more than just the opportunity to travel. Because I would be living in Italy for three months, it also offered true intercultural experience, not just a ten day blast through the past. It was exactly what I was looking for, so I decided to apply.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose InterExchange?</h3>
<p>As I stated above, I chose the program through InterExchange because of how much it offered. I would get to live with an Italian family and truly experience the culture. I would have the weekends free to run around the country. Forgive the cliché, but it sounded like a once in a lifetime opportunity.</p>
<p>Naturally, I wanted to be smart and careful about going abroad. InterExchange had <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/interexchange#reviews/0/0 rel="" target="_self" className="link">great reviews</a> and offered support to its participants. My parents even researched the program themselves and had to admit that it looked like a smart choice. InterExchange also had Italy as a choice for the teaching assistant program, and Italy was a country that I dreamed about seeing in person.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/interviews/interviewphoto2-drapeau-1449217225.jpg" alt="







View of Florence, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>One of my favorite cities: Florence</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about the location of your placement?</h3>
<p>When I first read that the program placements would be in the Marche region, I thought, “Where is that?”, and honestly, that is the reaction that every American I speak with has. We all generally know about the big-name cities, like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples, but anything beyond that is unknown to us Americans for the most part. That quality is my favorite part about the location.</p>
<p>I like to say that Marche is the little-known gem of Italy. It is indescribably gorgeous with its lush green rolling hills, ancient hill-top towns, and proximity to the Adriatic Sea. I am so thankful that the program places us participants in that region, because I’m not sure many of us would see much of it unless we happened to pass through it by train. There are so many events, restaurants, and sceneries to take advantage of in Marche. Its’ beauty cannot be overstated.</p>
<h3>What made your program experience unique?</h3>
<p>I haven’t participated in any other programs. But I don’t know of many programs that give you up to a  ten week stay and place you with a family that gives you room, board, and cultural experiences. They also place you with an Italian school that could have students preschool-age up to middle school-age. They typically place their participants all over the Marche region, also providing them with contact information for other tutors who are nearby.</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>They emailed us every so often to ask how things were going. The head representative in the area also tried to meet up with every participant. I learned that I was within walking distance of the InterExchange and International Experience “headquarters,” if you will. If I had ever needed anything, I knew where to go, but things went very smoothly.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?</h3>
<p>I wish I had cooked more with my family! I love culinary arts. My family would tell me about certain dishes, but we never got around to making them. I didn’t really bring back any recipes from my family. I have since looked things up online, but it would have been nice to learn from them and build a better connection.</p>
<p>On the topic of connections, I also wish I had networked a bit better with the Italian friend I made that spoke English. It was hard for me to travel around Fermo because I didn’t actually live in Fermo, but in a suburb at the bottom of the hill. The ride situation was difficult at times, but had I only tried a little bit harder, I might have experienced more.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned " ><img src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/interviews/interviewphoto4-drapeau-1449217387.jpg" alt="







Girl holding a glass of wine in Tuscany, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>Wine in Tuscany</p></div></div>
<h3>Describe a day in your life in Italy.</h3>
<p>I’ll describe a Wednesday since that was my long day at the school. Most days, I had to be at school by 9 a.m., which meant that I had to be at the bus stop 8:35 a.m. On Wednesdays, it was a little different because my first class wasn’t until 10 a.m. After taking the bus, I would get to school by 10 a.m. and head to my first class, where I would either teach on a PowerPoint presentation on some aspect of American culture or language or follow whatever the teacher of the class had for me to do. Some teachers were content to translate, if needed, while others had me act as more of a supplementary aid.</p>
<p>I had classes until 1 p.m., when we headed to the <em>cantina</em> for lunch. Wednesday was the only day that I stayed at school for lunchtime. I would take turns eating lunch with one of two classes; the other class would be sure to remind me that it was their turn the next week. After lunch, I would meet a couple of Italian teachers for a quick coffee (espresso) from the machine before we all headed to our separate classes.</p>
<p>I had three more classes after lunch, so school didn’t end until 4:45 p.m. on Wednesdays. After most school days, I usually took the bus home, but on Wednesdays, Maura, the head English teacher, always drove me home to Campiglione even though she lived in Fermo. I can’t describe to you how much I loved this lively lady. She also has a love for food, and would often take me for pizza or gelato after school. When I got home, I tried to squeeze in a run, but I usually left my running of those incredibly torturous hills for Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.</p>
<p>Afterward, I would sit at the table and chat with my host sisters and play games in English (they were BIG fans of “Go-Fish”). Other days, we would go play at the park near their house. Dinner usually came around 7 p.m or later, and we all would eat while sitting and talking or watch the news or game shows. Then, we all retired to our rooms, and I would use that time to research for school or my upcoming travels.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing on your free time?</h3>
<p>Oh, definitely the traveling. I loved my work at the school, but I lived for the weekends when I got to explore other cities of Italy. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting up with other girls at train stations or in our destination cities, finding our hostels, and setting out into the city until we had to go home on Sunday. Traveling has left me with so many memories, hilarious, frustrating, and lovely.</p>
<h3>What was your housing like? What did you like best about it?&nbsp;</h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I live in a house with a family: a mother, grandmother, and two little girls. The father visited often, but did not live there (this is an atypical placement situation). The house was in a quiet little neighborhood that existed to house people that worked in Fermo, so it was not very far away if you had a car. But I had to rely heavily on the bus system, which made getting around and traveling harder than it otherwise might have been.</p>
<p>What I liked most about my accommodation situation was that the grandmother lived with her family, which is common in Italy. I appreciated seeing how close the children were with their grandmother. Some of my favorite memories are the conversations I had with Nonna, who spoke no English. Sometimes, I would be the only one home to have dinner with Nonna, and I got to practice understanding Italian while finding out more about her.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>I wrote a lengthy blog post on this subject soon after I came home because of how much I felt I had gained from this program. Not a day goes by when I don’t think of Italy and the people I met there. Different experiences pop into my mind daily, and I am forever being reminded to be thankful for the opportunity I had to fly across the Atlantic and have the time of my life. I’m in a grand transitional stage in life right now, and I firmly believe that going abroad was the best decision I could have made to start that transition off.</p>
<blockquote>The trip was about learning in so many different ways. It is impossible to experience what I did and come away without being profoundly impacted.</blockquote>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/interviews/interviewphoto3-drapeau-1449217316.jpg" alt="







A view of Marche, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>View of Marche from the school</p></div></div>
<p>I learned five important things:</p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>I am capable of more than I ever thought possible.</strong> Being abroad alone forces you to be extremely independent, and I’m more confident because of it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Travel is not a bug that you have to get out of your system. </strong>People talk like it is; like it’s something you do once, and you won’t want to do again. False. I’m a traveler, and this traveling and intercultural experience only serves to make me crave more traveling and intercultural experiences.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>I struggle with who I am, but appreciate it at the same time. </strong>I came across many personalities in a three-month span. In my experience, it seemed like a vast majority of the young people that traveled abroad had big, extroverted personalities. I had always wanted to force myself to be more outgoing, talkative, and attractive. I learned that being introverted doesn’t mean I’m not outgoing. I also learned that being reserved is a good thing, and I don’t want to change who I am.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>I’m good at adapting.</strong> For someone who doesn’t like change, I do surprisingly well at it. Actually, I would say that I thrive in it. I’m no longer afraid of change, because I know it means adventure.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>I am inspired to continue learning. </strong>During my time at the school, with the family, and around Italy in general, I was inspired around every corner. I came home wanting to dust off my piano skills, continue learning Italian, and read more about Pompeii. Because of my experience teaching there, I am now a substitute teacher while I work on applying to graduate schools.I haven’t forgotten my resolutions. Italy impacts me months after I left her. I also left Italy having made lifelong friends. I still keep in contact with my host family. I am also in touch with a couple of my traveling partners; we talk all the time. I could go on and on. I am so fortunate to be able to have had that once in a lifetime opportunity. Never once have I regretted my decision to apply for this program and experience Italy. On the contrary, I’m plotting my return.</span><br></li>
</ol>


Jaclyn Drapeau

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Jaclyn Drapeau who participated in InterExchange program.

Jaclyn Drapeau | InterExchange Alumni Interview

InterExchange Alumni Interview with Jaclyn Drapeau


<p class="p1"><span class="s1"></span></p><div class="awesome-image right-aligned" style="width: 370px;"><img style="" src="http://cdn1.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto1-hoffmann2-1443680133.jpg" alt="







English camp volunteers in Bajardo, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>Orientation roommates representing Ireland, South Africa, and America</p></div></div><h3>Why did you decide to apply for an international program?</h3><p></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Following a teaching term in Thailand and a backpacking trip through Asia, I decided to get a change of scenery. A friend from Thailand had participated in A.C.L.E. the summer prior, and recommended it.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">Why did you choose A.C.L.E. over other program opportunities?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">As stated above, the program was recommended to me by a friend. I wanted to go to Europe, Italy specifically, and thought this would be the perfect way. I cannot afford to travel much without working, and I prefer working while traveling anyway since you get a better experience than you would being a tourist. The program appealed to me because you are paid to travel around Italy, basically. I liked the idea of being somewhere new every one to two weeks, as well as staying with host families. You also have the freedom choose your contract period, as long as it exceeds four weeks.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">Where was your program held? What did you like most about the location of your program?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The program was held in a town outside San Remo. I loved it because of the chance to go to Bajardo before the one week orientation and the proximity to San Remo. Everywhere you go in Italy is beautiful, and the area surrounding the resort we stayed in was no exception. As for my specific locations in Italy, I was all over the place!</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What was your favorite part of your program?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">There are not too many programs that I'm aware of that move their teachers (tutors) around so frequently. Essentially, you are being paid to travel Italy. My favorite part was the stay with Italian host families. They absolutely spoil you with amazing meals and small trips when there is time. I was able to see a vast amount of Italy from both the perspective of a tourist and a local.</span></p><div class="awesome-image left-aligned" style="width: 300px;"><img style="" src="http://cdn2.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto2-hoffmann2-1443680206.jpg" alt="







Volunteer with local kids in Italy"><div class="caption"><p>At camp with my host kids and coworkers</p></div></div><h3><span class="s1">How did local staff support you throughout your program?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I remained in pretty close contact with staff throughout my employment. I was moving pretty frequently, so questions about trains, travel, etc. were answered through them. Personally, I always found staff to be helpful, and during orientation I felt that all of my questions or concerns were addressed. Prior to the week long orientation, I felt that I had the information needed. There were plenty of information packets and emails keeping me in the loop. You are also given such a large amount of information and material (it is not overwhelming by the end of the week), so you are never without material, which is a huge support, especially if you have not taught before.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Stayed in Bajardo (the free accommodation participants are offered if they arrive before orientation) longer. Worried less.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What was a typical day like for you in Italy?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">An Italian breakfast was served buffet style around 8:00 a.m., and participants needed to be in the meeting room at 9:00 a.m. There were around 60 people, so getting to the breakfast early was a good idea. The orientation was held in a large meeting room. We started off with a warm-up circle like everyone does for camps, which usually lasted around a half hour. Then we would either listen to a presentation on a topic or divide into different groups to work on specific teaching methods or aspects of camps.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">There was an hour for lunch (again provided in buffet style for everyone, as were all meals) and quick breaks during the day as well. The day ended at around 6:00 p.m., with two hours of free time before dinner at 8:00 p.m. I found the program to be very structured and organized.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">What did you like doing on your free time?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">A few of us would go on evening runs before dinner. We found a path that led to an amazing view of the seaside. Otherwise, there wasn't too much free time as there is a lot to do in one short week. After dinner ended, typically around 9:30 p.m. or 10 p.m., I would relax and go to bed. The days are exhausting because you are simulating how camp will be, which requires a lot of energy.</span></p><div class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn3.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto3-hoffmann2-1443680243.jpg" alt="







View of a vineyard in Tuscany, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>A wine tasting in Tuscany</p></div></div><h3><span class="s1">What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">We stayed in a resort with four people to a room. While it was not ideal since two people were on a couch or futon, for the low price we paid it was fine. Included in your cost is the food, training materials, actual training, and every meal, but one in San Remo. For what we paid, it was definitely a good deal. There was a pool as well as nearby towns to explore. It was a pretty quiet town in general.</span></p><h3><span class="s1">How has your time abroad impacted your life at home?</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">This program offered me the opportunity to see a beautiful country that I otherwise could not have afforded to see, allowed me to meet and stay with local families, and allowed me to meet great people from around the world.</span></p><blockquote><span class="s1">Living with the host families was an absolutely unforgettable experience and I was able to really get a view of Italy from a local's point of view.</span></blockquote><div class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn3.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto4-hoffmann2-1443680276.jpg" alt="







Volunteer in Italy with local host family"><div class="caption"><p>One of the many extraordinary host families I was lucky to stay with</p></div></div><p>



















































</p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">I am still in contact with several of my host families. I ended up traveling afterwards with people I met in the program, and I picked up a few pounds from all the amazing Italian food and wine! I've never been more spoiled. This is such a great program if you are in university or a have a break in the summer and want to make some extra cash/do some traveling in a unique way.</span></p>


Amelia Hoffmann

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Amelia Hoffmann who participated in Associazione Culturale Linguistica Educational (A.C.L.E) program.

Amelia Hoffmann | Associazione Culturale Linguistica Education...

Amelia Hoffmann - 2015 Program Participant 


<p class="p1"></p><div class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn3.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto2-carmstrong-1429856897.jpg" alt="







Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>The Trevi Fountain in Rome</p></div></div><h3><span style="line-height: 24px;">What inspired you to apply for an international program?</span></h3>
<p class="p1">Up until I went to volunteer in Italy, I had never set foot outside of the United States. I had always wanted to travel, but I was extremely hesitant to take that first step and try something new. One day a friend had mentioned that we should try something new, something new like packing up and going to another country for a summer. Without any hesitation the hunt was on to find a program that was intriguing.</p>
<blockquote>I had been stuck in my comfort zone for far too long and decided it was time to just take a giant step and see how it changed my life.</blockquote>
<h3>Why did you choose Italy?</h3>
<p class="p1">I've only heard great things about Italy, and the culture has always fascinated me. I was also going to school to start a career in working with children. I could not think of a better way to volunteer my time than to help children while also visiting a historic country.</p><div class="awesome-image right-aligned" style="width: 300px;"><img style="" src="http://cdn1.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto4-carmstrong-1429857005.jpg" alt="







Visiting Pompeii"><div class="caption"><p>Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Italy?</h3>
<p class="p1">The culture. Immersing myself in something completely different than how I was raised and what's normal to me was absolutely life changing. And originating from Colorado, there are no beaches, seeing the ocean every day is something I could get use to.</p>
<h3>What made your program one-of-a-kind?</h3>
<p class="p1">Seeing the kids pick up the language and actually progress was amazing. Some kids barely knew anything but they would slowly pick up little things and it was amazing to see their faces light up when they understood something or could form a sentence.</p>
<blockquote>Even making a little impact on someone's life and sharing a little bit of who you are with a child is the best feeling ever.</blockquote>
<h3>How did local staff support you in Italy?</h3>
<p class="p1">They were there every step of the way to provide any assistance they could, whether helping us with the camp or helping us navigate our next weekend adventure.</p>
<h3>What do you wish you could change about your program?</h3>
<p class="p1">Besides learning a little bit more Italian, I wouldn't change a thing.</p>
<h3>Describe a day in your life in Italy.</h3>
<p class="p1">We would wake up and bike to the campsite and each kid was eagerly waiting for our arrival. We would open up with some greetings and then ease into some flash cards and note taking. Then we would incorporate some fun games into our learning. A couple hours in we would take a break and just hang out with the kids; this is when we really got to see their personalities and see our progress show, since they would all attempt to talk to us and show us what they were learning. As the parents would pick up their kids they would walk away telling their parents everything they learned that day with huge smiles on their faces.</p>
<h3>What did you like to do on your freetime?</h3>
<p class="p1">Traveling. Each weekend we would plan a trip to our next Italian destination. I got to see the differences between many cities and what makes that place special.</p>
<h3>What was your accommodation like in Italy?</h3>
<p class="p1">We were given an apartment less than 500 feet from the beach. We were all the way at the top, so we had a great view. All the camp counselors were in the same building so it helped us become so close and grow as a team. The apartment was amazing, it felt like our home away from home.</p><div class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://cdn2.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto3-carmstrong-1429856969.jpg" alt="







Inside the Colosseum in Rome, Italy"><div class="caption"><p>The Colosseum</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time in Italy impacted your life?</h3>
<p class="p1">All I want to do is travel. There is so much more out there than the bubble I grew up in. Diving into another culture and taking on how they live life is so interesting to me. The world has so much beauty and so much to offer, I want to enjoy as much of it as I can.</p>


Chrissy Armstrong

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Chrissy Armstrong who participated in The Cultural Exchange Project program.

Chrissy Armstrong | The Cultural Exchange Project

Chrissy Armstrong - 2014 Program Participant

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Get off the beaten path this summer and discover Italy with Angloville! Join international participants in casual conversations, cultural exchange, and exciting activities.

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