Loyola University Chicago

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Advice from Chelsea and Rafal (Rome Alums)                                     and Other Rome Center Staff Members

  • Expect the unexpected.  When studying abroad, you need to be flexible and open-minded. 
  • Learn some Italian.  This summer, just pick up a phrase book and try to learn some basics.  
  • Before going to Rome, take a look at some of the places that you think you might want to travel to.  This will help you to organize how you want to spend your time and money.
  • Do not have your family members send packages over to Rome.  The custom taxes are very high for packages to enter Italy and you will pay a lot of money for even small packages. 
  • There are phones on every floor of the Rome Center.  The cheapest way to call home is to purchase calling cards at the Porter's Desk at the Rome Center and use a land line to call home. 
  • The Study Trips are a great opportunity.  To sign up, there is a lottery system so be aware that you may not get to participate in all that you would like.    
  • Check with your airlines about how much luggage you can bring and also what the weight restrictions are. 
  • It is best to bring about 200 Euros with you to Rome.  For the duration of the semester, anywhere between $3,500-$5,500 is a good estimate.   
  • To read more about organizing personal funds, please read the section on our website called "Finances and Fees." 
  • There will be some adjustment when you get to Rome, so be aware that you may go through a period of change.  It can be a difficult balance with classes, travel, new friends and a new culture.  Try to manage your time well.
  • A great way to meet Italians is to participate in the Italian Speaking Partners. 
  • Don't purchase all your toiletries until you get to Rome.  There is a grocery store just a few minutes walking from the Rome Center that you can find all of the basic necessities.   
  • You will need a converter/adaptor for any electrical appliances that you plan to bring to Rome.  You can purchase this prior to going or when you arrive. 
  • Bring any items that you would like to have blessed by the Pope. 
  • Contact your cell phone company and find out if you can use your phone internationally and if you have a SIM card.  If you can, you may want to arrange a plan with them.  If not, you can purchase a phone in Rome and then just purchase a SIM card to pay as you go. 
  • There is email access 24 hours a day at the Rome Center so this and also Skype are great ways to communicate with those back home.   
  • Take in as much as you can and enjoy!