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5 Reasons to Study Abroad in Italy Next Semester

March 9, 2017

Italy is an ideal study abroad destination for any college student. With a glorious history, diverse culture and some of the most mouth-watering delicacies you’ll ever have the pleasure of eating, a semester in Italy is nothing short of spectacular.

Why study abroad in Italy?

While a great many students choose to study abroad in Italy largely for purposes of tourism, you can still prioritize your academic pursuits as you eat pizza from every region and lounge on the beach on the Amalfi Coast. Even if you aren’t majoring in Italian, art history, classical languages, or any other subject with an implicit or direct link to Italy, choosing to study abroad in Italy will still greatly enrich your academic experience.

Here are a few reasons how you can benefit from traveling to Italy, regardless of your field of study:

1. You can immerse yourself in the language

"One of my favorite locations in Milan. Colonne di San Lorenzo share the same square with San Lorenzo basilica (pictured). The square is a favorite hangout for students and locals alike. A small store on the corner sells beer for a cheap price making it an ideal location to go after an aperitivo at one of the nearby restaurants."
“One of my favorite locations in Milan. Colonne di San Lorenzo share the same square with San Lorenzo basilica (pictured). The square is a favorite hangout for students and locals alike. A small store on the corner sells beer for a cheap price making it an ideal location to go after an aperitivo at one of the nearby restaurants.”

Even if Italian weren’t one of the world’s most musical languages, participating in an intensive language program yields numerous academic, professional and personal dividends. Firstly, if you happen to be a student of classical world literature, the ability to read Boccaccio and Dante in the original Italian could open up a new world of meaning, allowing you to recognize and appreciate the linguistic nuances. Secondly, being bilingual will make you a valuable candidate to prospective employers both in the U.S. and abroad. Finally, becoming fluent in a second language can help you maintain optimum cognitive health.

2. You can explore your chosen major in an international classroom

Taking courses in a country that adheres to an unfamiliar academic structure offers numerous advantages. It will give you insight as to how the subject is viewed through the lens of a different culture. It will introduce you to new concepts and philosophies. You’ll learn to navigate unfamiliar approaches. These will all help you open your awareness to different ways of thinking, and lead you to become a more dynamic student and professional within your chosen field.

3. You can live and study alongside locals

Adjusting to a different culture and lifestyle can help you cultivate a flexible disposition. The workforce is becoming increasingly global, and in order to thrive in almost any working environment, you’ll have to quickly and continually adapt to diverse perspectives and methodologies. Additionally, having an intimate knowledge of the different cultures throughout Italy will help you compete in the job market.

4. You can take advantage of abundant opportunities for personal enrichment

Simply being in Italy – visiting the museums, watching the films, staying abreast of the political climate and even appreciating the cuisine – will help you to become a more cosmopolitan, well-rounded individual. You never know when the ability to speak knowledgeably about wine regions or the latest production at La Scala will come in handy.

5. You can treat yourself daily

Joy Donnelly, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy
Joy Donnelly, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy

While it’s always a good strategy to actively use your time studying abroad to pursue your academic and professional goals, ideally you’ll be in a country where there are plenty of opportunities for simple enjoyment. Happily, Italy has no shortage of wonderful activities. Sample the fantastic gelato and check out the nightlife in along the Via Portuense. Take a moment to treat your semester as though it’s the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that it is.

Why study abroad in Italy with ISEP?

We have helped tens of thousands of students successfully pursue an international education. We are committed to giving young people the support and resources they need to achieve their dream of studying abroad. Regardless of whether you prefer a small town with intimate classrooms or a large campus with greater course options, our team will give you the support you need to make the most of your journey.

To learn more about our different study abroad options, please visit our search page and enter Italy in the “Where to?” section of the filters.

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