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September 6, 2006

Back to School

Summer is over -- at least for us students here in Rome. No more long days spent on the beaches of Sardegna or exploring parks. Arrivederci (goodbye) to afternoons spent in piazzas, sipping cappuccinos and people-watching. Farewell to warm nights and taking an after-dinner stroll to the geleteria. Now it's back to school: Early morning classes, lunches on the run and late-night studying. The fun has ended.

But has it? Being a college student has its ups and downs; but being a college student abroad is an exciting experience. Sure, all students have to study, but I know kids who take their books to the Villa Borghese and read in the shade of the trees. Art students sit in piazzas and sketch the pedestrians. Language students sit in coffee shops and try to eavesdrop on conversations to learn Italian. And where do they take their breaks? In the Vatican Museums, touring the Coliseum or just wandering aimlessly around the city, losing themselves in the beauty of it all.

Looking back on nearly a year’s worth of blog entries, I realized that I have never been really clear about why I am in Rome for such an extended period of time. Many fortunate students get the chance to study abroad for a semester or year, but few are aware that there are many American schools in foreign countries that students can attend for all four years (or more).

I will admit: It’s not easy. Going four years straight (not counting the trips back home for Christmas) without Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, mom’s home-cooking, bagels, or a decent public transportation system is considered impossible by some. Personally, I find the experience of living abroad for an extended period of time a priceless opportunity.

So here I am, a junior studying communications at the American University of Rome. It's just like any other university, but a better location. Google search “American university of” in front of any major city and something is bound to pop up. To anyone who is considering undergraduate education, my best advice is to check out universities abroad. Not only will you have an amazing experience, but it’s a great excuse for your friends and family to go on vacation and visit you!

Posted by Kelsea  at 3:19 PM | Permalink

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