Embrace the Roman Culture Around You  

Learn the Italian Language 

Even a basic understanding of the Italian language goes a long way during your study abroad experience. Even though most Romans speak English, the locals appreciate the effort to speak their language. A simple conversation can be practiced in public spaces like cafes, restaurants, and markets. I found that my Italian class at CEA CAPA was a good starter to begin speaking the language in public. 

Live Like a Local 

There are many ways to spend your day like a real Roman does. First, have a coffee at your local café. Make sure to stand at the counter and order in Italian to practice language skills. Taking part in traditional Italian customs, like the evening passeggiata (leisurely walk), helped me feel more connected to the city. Public transportation is very easy to use, although the metro can be crowded at times. Either way, Rome is a perfect city to walk as much as you can. 

St. Peter’s Basilica at Night

Try Traditional Cuisine 

One of my favorite parts of living in Rome was enjoying the food. There are four traditional Roman pasta dishes that everyone must try when they visit Rome. They are Cacio e Pepe, Gricia, Carbonara, and Amatriciana. In addition to pasta, another typical meal in Rome is pizza. There are various places where you can get ‘cut pizza.’ They will cut you a piece to the size of your liking, fold it together like a sandwich, and wrap the bottom of it. This option is perfect to get on the go if you need it. 

Discovering the Beauty of Rome

Build Lifelong Connections 

Meet and Connect with Students, Professors, and Locals 

Building relationships with a diverse group of people was one of the most rewarding aspects of my study abroad experience. Engaging with fellow students, both local and international, fostered friendships that provided academic and personal support. My professors were not only knowledgeable but also eager to share insights into Rome’s contributions to our academic experiences. Additionally, forming friendships with locals enriched my cultural understanding and provided me with authentic experiences that went beyond the typical tourist perspective. 

Visiting a Church in Theology Class at CEA CAPA

Find a Connection to the City and Culture 

Living in Rome was like living in a museum. The entire city around you is full of new roads, churches, markets, and shops to explore. Plus, Rome has some of the most beautiful landmarks in the world. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Vatican City are all destinations to explore for the first time with friends. 

Going to an Italian Food Market in Food & Culture Class at CEA CAPA 

Example Day in the Life 

Morning 

My ideal day begins with an early morning espresso at the local café, soaking in the city’s unique energy. Walking through the cobblestone streets to class at CEA CAPA, I am able to see beautiful buildings and the grand Piazza Cavour. As I head into my first class, I’m greeted by other friends from my university. During our ten-minute break in class, we head downstairs to the café together and get a second espresso and a bite to eat. This became a routine every morning during class. 

Taking a CEA CAPA Provided Excursion to the Top of St. Peter’s Basilica 

Afternoon 

After class, I take advantage of Rome’s walkability and visit museums or historical sites. One of my favorite spots is Capitoline Hill, looking over the Roman Forum with the Colosseum in the background. On my walk, I decided to grab some of Rome’s famous cut pizza and a suppli on the go. Exploring the city after class is something I was able to integrate into my daily life. 

Night 

After getting ready in my apartment, I headed out with friends for aperitivo at our favorite spot in the neighborhood. An Aperol spritz and some small bites to eat are great pre-dinner activities. After some nice conversations, we headed to a new restaurant for dinner. Part of the excitement of living in a city like Rome is getting to try new places. Dinner is a social event in Italy, and I learned to appreciate the importance of community. Conversations over a plate of pasta turned into lessons about life, travel, and career ambitions. Embracing this slower, more intentional way of living taught me to approach problem-solving with patience and creativity.  

This post was written by Christopher Thompson, a CEA CAPA Alumni Ambassador from Providence College, who studied abroad in Rome, Italy.