Name: Katherine Werner
Major: Health Sciences
Program: Faculty-Led
Traveled Abroad Before: Yes

Q: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your study abroad experience?
A: It was an amazing experience and would love to go back to visit.

Q: Why did you choose this destination?
A: I choose this location because I've always been interested in traveling to Italy. I always thought it seemed like a beautiful country and waned to learn more about it.

Q: What are some things that surprised you about the campus, the classes, the culture, customs or traditions?
A: I was amazed by how even if we didn't speak the same language how friendly and welcoming individuals were especially where we said a majority of the time.

Q: What are some things you would like students to know about studying abroad in this destination or the program provider you studied with?
A: I enjoyed Lisa and Charlie because they were able to meet half way. Charlie enjoyed experiences with the food and wine while Lisa would take us on hikes and really see the sights. I enjoyed how I got to see everything.

Q: What advice would you offer?
A: Enjoy the moment, its okay to be homesick every now and then but keep yourself busy so you don't have to think about it. I don't think it is necessary to bring your phone on the trip.

Q: What was your academic goal while studying abroad?
A: I wanted to really understand the culture and I felt my classes HTM202 and HTM175 were able to fulfill that.

Question? Email Katherine!

Name: Paul Bratt
Major: International Relations
Program: John Cabot University
Traveled Abroad Before: Yes

Q: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your study abroad experience?
A: What first comes to mind is the immense history that you're exposed to in Rome, from early human civilization, to the Roman Empire, to the Catholic Church. Few cities offer the numerous sites and experiences that Rome offers, just walking down the street is like walking in an open air museum. Even in my last week there I was running to new places between finals.

Q: Why did you choose this destination?
A: As a double major in International Relations and Religious Studies, few cities can compete with Rome, plus I've wanted to travel to Rome for most of my life. As mentioned above, Rome offers an incredible amount of things to do.

Q: What are some things that surprised you about the campus, the classes, the culture, customs or traditions?
A: Because of its history, much of Rome and the Italian lifestyle is more archaic than GVSU students are used to. This, as with any cultural experience, isn't a "bad" thing, but it might be unexpected for some, and it definitely takes some getting used to. Whether its shopping for groceries or simply navigating the city, you have to expect things to be more difficult, completely different than you might expect in West Michigan. Also, the necessity of walking everywhere was a bit surprising at first but by the end of my time there, a forty minute walk was "short."

Q: What are some things you would like students to know about studying abroad in this destination or the program provider you studied with?
A: Studying at John Cabot University was great because, as an American University, the classes are taught in English and many of the students are American, but at the same time many professors and other students are from around the world. The university has a great location within the city walls, making it a short walk to all the main sites. Rome is also a very international city, and its possible to hear four or five different languages while walking around. That being said, it might not be a full immersion into Italian culture but if, like me, you don't speak Italian, and if, like me, you haven't been in a new country for longer than a couple of weeks, Rome is a great bridge into a new culture and language.

Q: What advice would you offer?
A: Enjoy all that Rome has to offer, but also explore the country and the rest of Europe. I spent time in about ten different cities in Italy, with each one different than the last. I also took advantage of the cheap airfare to get to other parts of Europe. Even though Switzerland borders Italy, it is a completely different experience than Italy. The great thing about Europe is you can travel a short distance and find a new experience. Get out and explore!

Q: What was your academic goal while studying abroad?
A: My goal was to immerse myself in a new experience, and to set myself apart as an international student. With my experience through John Cabot University, I am definitely better equipped for employment and graduate school. Studying in Rome gave me a better appreciation for the vast differences you encounter in the global community, from an individual level as well as a cultural level. I hoped to gain this appreciation as well as a new perspective on all things, and I certainly accomplished that. Even with a demanding 15 credit course load, it was easy to find time to travel and explore.

Question? Email Paul!