What program did you participate in?
From August 2025 to July 2026, I studied abroad in Bologna, Italy. I studied through a UCEAP program that allows students to enroll at the University of Bologna and take classes there alongside Italian and other international students. This program does not concentrate on one specific subject like art or food, but makes it possible to experience an authentic Italian university routine and lifestyle across various fields of study.
Learn more about the UCEAP Bologna program here
What was the highlight of your time abroad?
The highlight of my time in Bologna was definitely the friendships that I made. I lived with an Italian couple during my year and through them I met so many amazing and incredible people. I met people of all walks of life, of all ages, and from multiple countries. I was lucky enough to become really close with some of them and over my year there I made so many fun memories with them. Celebrating birthdays and holidays, going on day trips to nearby cities, going for an aperitivo after class, and even just staying at home playing cards. I still talk with many of them now and I feel like those relationships are the kinds that you keep for the rest of your life.
What was one of your favorite places you visited?
My favorite place in Bologna is Piazza Maggiore, which is a piazza or square in the center of the city. It’s not only a gorgeous place but it is also a historical location. The raised platform in the center of the piazza, called the crescentone, is slightly broken in certain spots from when American soldiers in tanks came to liberate the city during WW2. Around Christmas time you can see the big Christmas tree in the nearby piazza and during the summer months the city also puts up a big screen and shows free movies. It’s always a really pretty and busy spot within the city center. I made so many memories with my friends here over the year. We would meet up and sit down on the steps of the basilica and chat. We would take walks around the piazza and the surrounding streets. We would get food and look around at the occasional pop-up markets. I could always count on Piazza Maggiore when I wanted to find something to do or somewhere to meet up with friends.
What was your favorite trip you went on?
One of my favorite trips (because choosing my favorite would be impossible) is when my roommate and I took the train from Bologna to Venice on Mardi Gras, also known as Carnevale in Italy. Venice is famous for its Carnevale celebration and people come from all over to see others dressed in elaborate costumes and masks. It had always been one of my dreams to go to Venice and see the Carnevale with my own eyes. I had so much fun exploring with my roommate and seeing all the creative costumes that people were wearing.
Do you have any advice for other students?
My advice in general would be to keep an open mind. There are going to be so many new and unfamiliar things, and these things can make your experience all the more special if you give them a try. Studying abroad not only means that you’re going to study in a different country but you’re also going to learn how to live differently. Your entire routine can and probably will change, and being flexible will really help you adapt to everything that’s new. For Bologna specifically I suggest trying to use some Italian while you’re there. Many people there speak English so knowing Italian is not necessary, but it really allows you to connect with the people there and open doors that might otherwise be closed. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes!