It has been just over a month since I arrived in Rome and a whirlwind of events have happened since. Although my passage to this beautiful city from home was a rough one to say the least, thank you British Airways, I could not be happier. Life in Rome is very similar to the States. I haven’t noticed any major differences between here and home, other than the language, so my transition went fairly smoothly. There are very few times in which I ever become frustrated living abroad.

The first is when I need directions or need to talk to a local and I’m not with someone who can actually speak the language fairly well.  The second is the conveniences of home.  Everything here closes at 8pm, is rarely open on Sundays, and there are very few non-specialized stores.  Meaning, you need to travel to several different types of stores for items that you could buy all at Target or Walmart.

Public transportation is never reliable, so typically people don’t get mad when you are late.  Mostly everyone is very easy going and friendly.  At least a few times a week I will have strangers begin a conversation with me, almost out of nowhere.  However, it usually ends quickly once they realize I can’t speak Italian.

As far as the education in Rome, I know it is very different than the US, but I’m in a program for Americans I have not experienced much of Italian methods of teaching.  I do have Italian teachers, though, and what I have noticed is that they typically have lecture classes and the students are only evaluated with a midterm and final exam.  I’m personally not a fan of that method, but that is the style they use.

In all, I’m having a wonderful time so far in Rome and I plan to come live here (or at least visit) again at some point in my life! Ciao <3