9 Reasons to Study Abroad in Italy
If you're considering a few weeks of study abroad in Italy, you're not alone. Read on to discover nine reasons why Italy is a popular choice for students.
- You Get to Experience Italian Culture
Italy has influenced global culture with some of the richest collections of art, architecture, cuisine, and music in the world. An immersive study abroad experience in Italy helps you develop an expanded world perspective and cultural appreciation.
Whether it's a study abroad Rome program or another location, you get a chance to experience Italian culture. For example, Italians take an afternoon break, or riposo, during the hottest part of the day. After lunch, it's time for a quick nap.
- There Are Plenty of Programs to Choose From
Study abroad programs in Italy are some of the most popular because of the country's food, scenery, historical sites, and museums. There are plenty of programs to choose from, including fashion, creative writing, and visual art. The best study abroad programs focus on specific majors, such as communications, design, language, medicine, or architecture.
A Rome study abroad program for exemple could expand a student's film and media studies experience.
- You'll Receive a High-Quality Education
Students worldwide come to Italy to study and gain insight into their field through a different cultural lens. Italy boasts a high-quality education system and is home to the University of Bologna and University of Siena (where I studied), the oldest universities in the world. The country has been a hub for art, science, and higher education for hundreds of years.
- You Can Learn Italian in an Immersive Environment
Even if you're not a language major, learning another language can help you communicate when you travel abroad. It can also make you a more competitive job applicant and expand career opportunities in fields like foreign relations, tourism, and marketing.
Furthermore, learning another language is good for your brain. Still, becoming fluent takes time and commitment.
Living with a host family instead of living in a dorm or in student housing forces you to communicate in Italian. You'll also get to experience authentic Italian life. And living at hoke with your teacher… is a huge plus!
- You Can Eat Authentic Italian Cuisine
One of the exciting things about studying abroad is the opportunity to discover new foods. In Italy, you can broaden your palate and experience authentic Italian cuisine.
Shop at the local markets, research local delicacies in your area, and treat yourself to a gelato once in a while. You'll also experience food customs and etiquette. For example, Italians tend to eat dinner late, between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. In the summer, they might eat even later.
- It's an Inexpensive Country to Travel In
Eurail Italy covers 10,000 miles, including 600 miles of high-speed rails, making it the most convenient way to travel. For instance, it's easy to take the train from Rome to explore Florence, Neaples or smaller cities like Pisa or Siena.
Living in a homestay reduces a lot your living costs, especially if you have the kitchen at home.
- You Can Explore a Variety of Beautiful Landscapes
By studying abroad in Italy, you can deepen your learning experience and get to know the locals by exploring the country's scenic countryside. Italy's diverse landscapes range from sunny beaches to snow-capped mountains.
Hiking, trekking and seeing a spectacular display of wildflowers in bloom from June to September from the top of our mountains. Or cycling the Italian riviera along the coast. Or take a leisurely trip through the Italian countryside on a regional train. What’s better than this?
- You Can Experience Beautiful Cities
Italy's history comes alive within its citie’s plazas, cathedrals, museums, parks, and historical gardens. Ancient, Renaissance, and modern styles of architecture from north to south make Italian cities a one-of-a-kind experience.
The Colosseum, which was designed to seat 5,000 people, is probably the most famous structure in Italy. The country is also home to awe-inspiring cathedrals and basilicas that house world-renowned sculptures, frescoes, and paintings. You can explore some of the world's most famous museums as well.
- You Can Immerse Yourself in History
Today, Italy is the global leader in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with 58 landmarks and 40 more locations under consideration.
While studying abroad, you'll get to immerse yourself in Italian history, from the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City to the Pantheon and the Colosseum in Rome.
You may also get the chance to explore Roman remains in the surrounding areas and breath as an ancient roman did!
Still not sure of coming to Italy? Ask for questions HERE 😊
