Erasmus Experience in Rome, Italy by Katie

Why did you choose to go to Rome, Italy?

I had visited Italy a few times before and I fell in love with the culture, the people and of course the food. I learned the basics of Italian through summer work in Italy so I viewed Erasmus as an opportunity to further develop my language skills. I specifically selected Rome because I had never really explored the city further than two touristic days in a hot July.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

The exchange was September through to December, 4 months. I received roughly €400 per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Rome?

The student lifestyle is incredible. It is more expensive but when you learn where to go it is possible to have an averagely priced night out. There is a large selection and zones where you can choose to go, there is something for everyone.

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Would you recommend the city and the University of Rome to other students?

I would recommend Rome to other students because you become a resident instead of a tourist who visits for a week and what it has to offer others than the main historic sights is truly wonderful. There are so many things to do and explore during the days, at weekends and of course at night. As it is such an international city you always meet interesting people. University consists only of lectures, no tutorials, which means you still have free time to explore the city. Teaching methods don't differ far from those in the UK with regards to the lectures.

What is the food like?

So good! The food is one of Italy's best features. I have tried so many new delicious foods and it is almost impossible to stop eating. Everything they have at home, Italy does it better and with more choice.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Rome?

I was searching for a week before I found something in Italy, but I did leave it last minute so a week in hotels and B&B's before I moved in, but it was worth it.

How much does it cost to live in Rome?

Beside from accommodation, roughly €400 a month. Might be a little more sometimes if there is a trip or a weekend away.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There are language courses available. The first week is optional and it is a week long intensive crash course. You then have the opportunity to carry on these classes throughout the semester once a week with an exam at the end to achieve a level such as A1, A2, B1 etc. They are also free.

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Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Rome?

There are so many areas but Scholars Irish Pub, Piazza Venezia, is a good place to start, especially on Wednesday as there is karaoke and it is packed! Campo dei Fiori has a good selection of bars with cheap drinks (especially Bar Femme), Trastevere has a great selection of bars as do San Lorenzo, Testaccio. There is a large selection of clubs, depends on taste but each night has something else to offer. Mixing 'shows' into clubs is very popular which means sometimes you have to pay €10-€15 euros entry but this could include a drink. It at least has to be done once!

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Rome?

Antica Birreria Peroni is an authentic Italian restaurant not far from Via del Corso where you will see lots of Italians coming in for lunch and few tourists. The food is good and cheap. Generally, if you move away from the main streets and touristic zones you will find good places to eat!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

In Rome there are too many.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Rome in the future?

Make the most of every day you have here!