Why Study Abroad in Perugia?
Most students know that they want to study abroad, however picking the location and program can be really difficult. Better stated, for me, I wanted to choose the right fit for me overall of what I wanted to get out of my study abroad experience.
I attend Endicott College, which is a small college on the north shore of Massachusetts, and because of this I wanted to expand my social circle. For my school, specifically, the two options to study abroad in Italy were Florence and Perugia both through ISI. For Florence more students from my school end up choosing it because they get a travel week when they first get to Italy. While for Perugia, instead of a travel week we have what is called immersion week. Which is where our Italian professors show us around the city and immerse us in the culture.
A Special Learning Language Program
Although what sold me on Perugia the most was the language learning program here at Umbra. I remember sitting in my college’s auditorium and a speaker was explaining the different study abroad programs. They explained how there would be an immersion week the week before classes started where they really prioritize speaking the language.
Perugia as my Home
On top of all of this, the staff is phenomenal at their jobs at making the students feel welcome and comfortable in Italy. For instance, during the first few weeks of the semester I had a few problems with unlocking my door because my hand muscles are weaker than the average person my age. I briefly explained how I’ve been to occupational therapy before because of my hands and without me asking the housing office they ordered a key turner aid for me to help. This was one of the moments when I knew that I had made the right decision and that I chose the right program.
Just Do it
Overall, choosing where to study abroad can feel overwhelming; but I felt this was the best choice for me because I wanted to be able to learn the language and also be in a smaller city as well.