A&M has a great program in Italy. In the summer of 2003, I spent 5 weeks at their school, Santa Chiara, in a small town called Castiglion Fiorentino. One of the best things about this particular program is that even though you travel quite often you feel like you have a home base. The town is extremely welcoming and tries to really involve the students in whatever event is going on. Also, you have the freedom to travel on the weekends with whomever you want.

Since this was a summer session, we had the opportunity to take 6 hours. Everyone took the art appreciation class. This class was really neat because we would first discuss

a piece of artwork or an artist in class and then go out and see the original! For the other 3 hours we chose from several different classes. I took a Roman Epic class and learned a lot and enjoyed it. Most of the professors that came over were great. They not only wanted you to learn but also wanted you to experience Italy.

Another advantage of studying abroad for me was that I got used to being in Italy and got the feel of it. I figured out the trains, made hostel reservations, and learned key phrases while there were lots of resources at my fingertips. The director and everyone at the school is extremely helpful and willing to guide you in the right direction. I traveled afterwards and felt much more confident about doing so with the foundation I got from Santa Chiara.

If you're thinking about studying abroad, go for it! Another opportunity like this might not come along!