Classes started on Monday and I've been to all of them once by now. For the most part, I think I'm going to really enjoy them. However, my Global Marketing class seems like a lot of work. A lot of keeping up with global current events and reading the WSJ and the NYTimes. Basically, lots of research that I rather spend on booking trips! Oh well, my dad had to remind me today that I am going here for school, after all.
But what I enjoy the most about classes, I think, is that the professors teach us the concepts in regards to where we are. For example, in my advertising class, I need to create an ad campaign around and Italian product, rather than an American one. They really put the Italian spin on the lessons, which is what I was hoping for. My international business professor went through some obvious differences between American Universities and Universities in Rome. I can't remember all of them but basically he explained the difference in class dynamics teaching style. I'm glad I'm taking these international classes abroad- it really helps put everything into perspective.
Another cool thing about this about this university is that the class sizes are way smaller than at Drexel. The teachers get to know everyone in the class and make themselves available when you need help. (Sorry Drexel) The desks are even set up in a circle in some classrooms - allowing for more discussion. The school itself is small, however, classes are only really held in 1 building. And the girl to guy ratio in each class is like 7 to 1.
Other than school, I've realized that living in Rome is hard. It's hard to get around in a new city and even harder when you don't know much of the language. Today a bus driver on the bus that I take to get home from school every day told me that I was on the wrong bus. And it was hard to explain to him what street I had to get off at and that I was, in fact, on the correct bus. Also, the supermarkets are different and purchasing food is a whole other science. The people are friendly about it and understand that I'm American, but I guess it's just frustrating to me that I can't just go up to the counter and explain exactly what it is that I need. Ho Bisogno! Regardless, it's all part of the experience and I'll take a couple of weeks of feeling lost if it means that I get to learn this language and culture.
Lot's of fun things coming this week- lot's of parties! Keep reading for more details :)
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