Jorge Mendez

Jorge Mendez

This was my first time in Italy. Being submersed in the Italian culture is an experience like no other. From the scenery, the breeze, the smells – good and bad, the genuinely friendly people, and the food – oh yes, the food. There is nothing like walking down an Italian road and not being able to think of anywhere else to be at that moment. The experience is unforgettable. The program gives you the freedom of traveling outside of Genoa and visiting places like Venice, Florence, Pisa, and Rome. If you get the chance, don’t miss out on Cinque Terre – there you will find the most intriguing little Italian towns – and I mean little, alongside the diamond carpet we call the Mediterranean Sea. If you would rather stay in Genoa and the surrounding towns, you can experience what is like to be in a real Italian setting – Let’s admit, Rome is for tourists. The plazas and cafe’s are something that one can easily get attached to and don’t be surprised if you miss it once you come back. Let’s not kid ourselves; you will miss everything – from the sometimes stinky subways to the amazing wines. Another great part of the program – aside from the whole oh-my-God-I’m-in-Italy part – is the professors. Professor Fasce and Professor Cavalieri where beyond great and really helped us learn about Italian history and Italian culture like no other professors ever could. They have distinct personalities and yes, you will miss them too. In all, it was a great experience and I made some good friends along the way. My advice is to enjoy it and get out and explore. And if you plan on jumping in a fountain, make sure the cops aren’t around.