Ciao from Italy!
Covid-19 and its variants are still moving forward, but so is Rome with Purpose!
Study abroad programs are in full swing here in Italy, with our recent flight to Rome full of excited students attending various programs throughout Rome for an adventure of a lifetime. Rome with Purpose has 12 students attending this semester from four different Universities in the USA. Why do they come? Could it be the opportunity to explore other countries and be immersed in another culture while living in Christian community? Maybe it is Debbie’s cooking lessons showing them how to make fresh pasta and bread? Or is it the quality academics taught from a Christian worldview from both Italian and American professors? Did I mention the incredible wealth of art, architecture, history, culture, and friendly Italian people?
The Italian and European communities have clearly outlined what is required to be here for the safety and protection of everyone. Our staff and students have risen to the occasion by getting their vaccines, their boosters, wearing the appropriate masks, and dutifully showing their CDC card to enter restaurants and museums. Life goes on for the Italians and also for our little community of students making each day an adventure of discovery and learning.
The students are recurrently getting to know Rome, but also excitedly planning their weekend trips and the two free travel weeks where they can go anywhere they wish. Ever thought of going to Krakow in Poland to experience Auschwitz? How about Norway in the winter to see the Northern Lights? Exotic places such as Athens, Florence, Venice, Paris, London, and Berlin are only a short train ride or flight away.
Our neighborhood of Pigneto, not far from the center of Rome, is already becoming home to our students as they explore the stores, do their grocery shopping, meet the local vendors, and learn to practice the Italian language. Each of them could already give you a hearty welcome in Italian of Ciao! And a warm goodbye with Arrivederci! We are all thankful to be in Bella Italia and look forward to some of you joining us in the near future.
