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Robert Morris University’s
Program in Italy
The American University of Rome
www.aur.edu
Note: This is a supplement to the
RMU Study Abroad Handbook.
Please keep them together
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Italy
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF ROME
www.aur.edu
Introduction:
A Taste of Culture from Old Italy:
Students at universities today have the opportunity to participate in an experience
of a lifetime. A study abroad experience provides students with an opportunity that will
never come again. Italy has been one of the most popular destinations when deciding to
study abroad. Filled with a deep history, and diverse culture, Italy provides an
experience like no other country. To help you prepare for this unique experience, we
have created this manual to assist you in your travels. Think of it as your crash course to
living in Italy. Our goal is to provide you with the information needed to understand the
cultural aspects of Italy, learn specific ways Americans can interact with Italians to build
successful relationships, and familiarize yourself with information needed for everyday
life. Last, but certainly not least, we want you to make a smooth transition and feel at
home in your new environment. So here's to new places, new friends, new experiences,
and lasting memories!
Italy at a glance*
Population: 57.6 million
Capital City: Rome
Monetary Unit: Euro (effective January 1, 2002)
International Dialing Code: 39
Area: 301,250 sq. kilometers (117,487 sq. miles)
Languages: Italian plus numerous dialects in German, French, and Slovene minorities
Time: 6 hours ahead of New York and 9 hours ahead of California
*Facts acquired via Yahoo Online Fact Book
http://education.yahoo.com/reference/factbook/it/commun.html
History of Italy:
The following excerpt is quoted directly from the Britannica Student Encyclopedia
available in the E- Library on the Robert Morris University Website:
Although Italy became a united country only in 1861, it has one of the oldest
cultures in Europe. Italy's eras of greatness and artistic brilliance and the variety of its
natural environments have attracted many travelers in search of beautiful art, landscapes,
and places of religious importance. Rome, one of the world’s oldest and most colorful
cities, is the capital and largest city of Italy. Vatican City, the seat of the Roman Catholic
Church, is an independent state that lies within Rome.
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Two thousand years ago Italy was the heart of the mighty Roman Empire, which
extended from Scotland to what is now Iraq, and south from the Rhine River to the
Sahara in North Africa. After the decline and fall of the empire, Italy was divided into a
number of large and small states, but it continued to occupy a place of leadership in
commerce, on both land and sea, and in the arts. Modern finance, the foundations of
banking and foreign trade, and the rebirth of interest in classical European art and
thought, called the Renaissance, spread from Italy to most of Europe.
The unified Italy that emerged in 1861 lagged behind other European countries
economically because of its scant natural resources. In World War I Italy gained some
territory but continued to have economic problems. A Fascist dictatorship under Benito
Mussolini led to a few temporary gains, but during World War II Italy was occupied by
Germany and invaded by Allied forces. It suffered severe damage to some of its cities
and a breakdown of its economy. With outside help Italy made up its losses, expanded its
economy, and strengthened its democratic institutions to become one of the cornerstones
of a strong, stable Western Europe. A founding member of the European Economic
Community (now part of the European Union), Italy now ranks among the leading
commercial and cultural nations of the Western world.
Sights To See In Rome:
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The Colosseum- Most known tourist attraction where ancient Romans watched
gladiators compete
St. Peters Basilica- Built over the martered apostle Peter’s resting place
Sistine Chapel- See Michelangelo’s amazing artwork on the ceiling
The Pantheon- Temple of all the Gods
Trastevere- One of the oldest parts of Rome- enjoy many shops and botiques
The Vatican City- Home of the Pope and the Sistine Chapel
Catacombs- Early Christian burial site
Students also find time to travel to other cities such as Venice, Florence, Pompay,
and Naples
Pre- Departure Information:
Before departure students should:
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Change $100 into EURO
6 passport size photographs- bring to orientation in Rome.
Obtain AT&T (or other reliable company) calling card
Obtain ATM card with international coding (must not be linked to a savings
account)
Obtain MULTIPLE ENTRY student VISA from Italian Consulate
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When You First Arrive in Italy:
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Students should consult with their home university/ study abroad program to
determine their scheduled arrival date. Students must arrive on the scheduled
arrival date. International flights generally arrive early morning.
If you arrive before 10:30 a.m., the American University of Rome will have a
group airport pick up. Students should exit customs and proceed to the “Left
luggage” counter in the arrivals hall in section C. (Note: this is “left luggage” as
in luggage storage area not “left” as in left vs. right.)
The American University of Rome can only arrange for one group pickup
between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m., so students not arriving within this time frame will
be expected to arrive independently to the University during office hours.
Most flights from the U.S. arrive in Section C of the arrivals hall. If you arrive in Rome
on a flight originating from another EU country you will probably arrive in section B and
will have to walk to section C (approximately 300 yards). The AUR representative will
be waiting there holding a sign marked THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF ROME.
Travel instructions to AUR:
Route ONE- (from airport):
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Students should take the train from the airport terminal railway station to
Trastevere station (approximate cost: 5 Euro).
Once on the train the Trastevere station is the fifth stop.
Tickets for the train can be easily purchased from automated vending machines,
the ticket counter or the little newspaper stand (the easiest and fastest way).
You will need EURO currency.
There are two trains available from the airport train station; you should choose the
metropolitan rather than the express non- stop train the main Termini train station.
From the Trastevere station you should then take a taxi to AUR (approximate
cost: 15 EURO)
Route TWO- (from Termini train station):
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Take taxi or the Bus # 75 goes directly to the university.
The university is located between the stops of Via Dandolo and Via Carini.
Either stop is less than 100 meters from the university.
This would be approximately fifteen (15) stops on the bus and should take 20- 30
minutes.
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Your landmark would be the ancient wall of Rome, which you would pass
through after a long uphill climb subsequent to crossing the Tiber River.
Route THREE- (taxi):
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If you wish to take a taxi from the airport directly to the city you should expect to
pay approximately 50- 60 EURO.
For taxi drivers, the university landmark would be the park Villa Sciarra.
About the American University of Rome:
The American University of Rome is committed to excellence in education and the
promotion of cross-cultural exchange. AUR is dedicated to encouraging academic
achievement in its students and offers a curriculum designed to complement our high
academic standards and ensure an active-learning environment with small student/faculty
ratio.
Founded in 1969, The American University of Rome is the oldest degree-granting
American university in Rome. AUR is a coeducational, accredited university which
offers undergraduate degrees in six disciplines and enrolls 450 students (Spring 2004).
The previous excerpt was quoted directly from AUR’s website: www.aur.edu
Courses:
Attendance policy is very strict. If you miss more than 2 classes you will fail the
course. There is only one bookstore that you can get your textbooks at. The books are
not refundable. It is not like at Robert Morris University.
Recommended courses:
 Elementary Italian 1
 Art of Rome- never in the classroom, out exploring actual historic sights
 International Business
 Modern Italian History
 Opera Class
 E-Commerce
 International Affairs
 Italian Cultures
It also depends on the class. Some have a lot of homework, while others have
barely any. Course work can be demanding. There are many strict policies. Some
professors will make exceptions for study abroad students. They do understand it can
be difficult to study abroad.
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Be prepared- if class is cancelled, it will probably be made up on Friday, since there are
never other classes that day (all classes held Monday- Thursday). You must go, even
though it may affect your travel plans that weekend.
Computer Labs: The computer labs are open on the weekends, and have extended hours
during finals. There are two computer labs on campus. The main computer lab houses
over 50 PCs. A smaller computer lab with over 15 PCs is located in the library.
Language:
You should learn a little bit of Italian while staying in the country. Learn a little
“survival Italian.” Make sure you know the essentials, such as your address, how to ask
for directions, and asking for help. There is a class available called Elementary Italian 1
that goes through the basics, and will help you with what you will need to know. It is
also polite to attempt to speak their language since you are in their country.
Here are a few helpful phrases:
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Where is the bathroom?- Dove è la stanza da bagno
How do I get to the university?- Come ottengo all'università?
Do you speak English?- Parlate inglese?
Yes- Sì
No- no
Thank You- grazie
Please- per favore
Excuse me- scusilo
How do you say…?- come dite?
What is your name?- Che cosa è il vostro nome?
*google language translation- www.translate.google.com/translate
How to Pronounce Italian Consonants:
Italian pronunciation might pose some difficulties for the beginner. Yet it is very
regular, and once the rules are understood it is easy to pronounce each word correctly.
Here are a few basic pronunciation rules for Italian consonants.
1. The consonants B, F, M, N, and V are pronounced as in English. C before a, o, u and
before consonants has a sound similar to the English k; before e and i a sound similar to
the English ch as in church.
2. D is somewhat more explosive than in English, with the tongue near the tip of the
upper teeth but with no aspiration.
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3. G before a, o, and u and before consonants has a sound like the g in good; before e and
i like the g in general.
4. Gli is like ll in million, and Gn is like the ny in canyon.
5. H is silent.
6. L is as in English, but sharper and more forward in the mouth.
7. P is as in English, but without the aspiration that sometimes accompanies this sound in
English.
8. Qu is always pronounced like the English qu in quest.
9. R is different from the English r; it is pronounced with one flip of the tongue against
the gums of the upper teeth. This is the trilled r.
10. Initial S before vowels and unvoiced consonants (c, f, p, q, s, t) is pronounced like
the s in sun.
11. S before voiced consonants (b, d, g, l, m, n, r, v) is pronounced like the s in rose.
12. T is approximately the same as in English, but no escaping of breath accompanies it
in Italian.
13. Z can be voiced, like ds in beds, or voiceless, like ts in bets.
*Italian Pronunciation
http://www.hwcdsb.edu.on.ca/stjeande/fren_ital/italmain.htm
Visas:
All students attending AUR for a semester or longer will need an Italian Visa. This may
take a long time, so start now. Applications for a visa can be processed up to three
months before departure date. They cannot be processed earlier than 90 days
before departure.
Below is a list of documents you need in order to apply for the visa:
1. Passport (If you do not already have one, apply for a passport now. It may take 3- 4
weeks to receive it.) Passports must be valid for at least three months after you return.
The documents you will need to get a passport are:
A. Original birth certificate (Will be returned with passport)
B. 2 passport photos
C. Passport application: you can get one at the Passport office in the City/ County
Building in Pittsburgh or check with your local post office.
D. The fee is $85.00. Do not write checks until you go to the passport office.
They will tell you how to address them.
2. Italian Visa application: Application included in packet. Fill it out but do NOT sign
it. You will need to sign the form before a consular officer. The application is also
available at www.italyemb.org/StudentVisa.htm. There is no charge for Italian student
visas. Students studying during the summer must also apply for a student visa.
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3. Acceptance letter from AUR: Your university/college will provide you with two
original copies; you need both for the visa application and later you will need them for
Italian authorities. (take originals with you, not the copies)
4. Notarized Affidavit of Support from parent(s). The form will be provided to you
from the International Exchange Programs Office.
5. Official letter from bank on letter head stating that the account is in good standing
(and preferably that the funds are available to pay.) and a bank statement showing that
there is at least $800.00 deposit per month (enough for about $2500 for the entire stay.)
6. Itinerary (round trip ticket showing flight information and your name)
7. One passport format photo (You should have about four extras because you will
need them for your International Student ID and various other uses.)
8. Proof of insurance (Notarized letter from insurance company about your health
coverage, and health insurance card to be copied by the Honorary Italian Consul.)
Check with your insurance company on the procedures for using your coverage
overseas.
9. Notarized promise to buy insurance at AUR. The form will be provided to you
from the International Exchange Programs Office. (The insurance costs between $52 and
$60 for the semester.)
10. Two pre-paid ($3.85 each) Priority Mail envelopes from the Post Office: one to
send with your visa application and one self-addressed so that they can return your
passport/visa.
11. Driver’s License- Take with you to the Honorary Consul of Italy and a copy will be
made.
12. Processing time to receive a visa: Approximately 3-4 weeks. (If denied, you can
reapply immediately. Include whatever was missing from the first appointment.)
Consult the International Exchange Programs Office as soon as you have the above
information. The office will review your information and make two copies. You must
meet with the Honorary Consul of Italy at Duquesne University. Remember to take the
original copies and 1 photocopy of all forms with you when you meet with Dr. Carla
Lucente. She will approve your information before it is sent in to the Philadelphia
Office.
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Honorary Consul of Italy
Dr. Carla Lucente
Rockwell Hall, Suite 401
600 Forbes Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
Phone: 412-765-0273
Hours: 9:30 – 12:30 (Monday – Friday)
Approximate Budget Required:
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Airfare- $600-$1000 (depending on purchase time)
Tuition- Paid to your home university
Housing- Depends on university: Spring 2005 approx. cost- $4,250
Spending money (traveling, eating out, etc.) not including airfare and housing) estimate about 70 to 125 Euro a week, plus whatever you expect to spend on gifts.
It really depends on the spending habits of students. Some students may take as
much as $5000
 Books- approximately 200-300 Euro
 Living expenses (necessities: toiletries etc.)- from 20-50 euro a week (depending
on your spending habits)
*Note that if you plan to travel during your stay, your cost will be more.
What to Bring:
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Extra washcloth, towel, sheets, comforter- the room is equipped with these
items, but if you need extra you may bring them.
Laptop- if you have access to one. (appropriate adapters- apartments have
internet hookups)
Electric converter for outlets.
Bug repellent
Clothing:
Dress Code: shoulders and knees are not to be seen in a lot of churches in Rome. As far
as the women’s clothing, expect catcalls if you are dressed in short shorts or skirts and
low cut tank tops. Italians are very fashionable
Recommended list of clothing:
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One or two nice dress outfits
Coat- if traveling
Sweatshirts and sweatpants- in case of cold weather
Jeans (if desired)- no air conditioning in apartments
Not many Italians wear shorts, mostly longer pants or jeans.
-You may get away with wearing shorts, but it is not exactly
socially acceptable.
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Housing:
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Apartments range from 5 to 25 minutes away from the school
Catch a tram to the school if you want to walk
Apartments arranged by the university.
Roommates may be strangers at first, but the university tries to keep
students from the same area or region together.
Apartment usually furnished
Certain apartments- no carpeting, and it can get a little dirty
Able to do laundry right in the apartment
No dryer- hang up your laundry on a clothesline.
Basic apartment- 2 double rooms, single room, 2 bathrooms,
living/dining room, kitchen
Houses approximately 5 students
Limited closet space depending on the apartment
No parties- No loud music. Watch making noise when entering and
leaving
Iron and ironing boards, fold out couches, and a television included
Each apartment comes with a cell phone. You don’t have a plan; you have
to buy cards with minutes on it. They don’t advise you take the phone out
of the apartment, but you can if you would like to.
Travel:
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Traveling- relatively cheap- countries are close together
Flights and train tickets are very affordable
Get the Euro Rail pass before you leave- $300 (estimate)plan trips before going overseas
“Ryan Air” or “Easy Jet” about 17 euros each way
Bus pass- 15 Euros a month- caught on the bus without a pass- fined 50
Euros
Hostels seem to be the cheapest places to stay- If traveling with others,
sharing hotel rooms may be cheaper
* Note that hostels usually do not provide towels
Safety:
Rome, in general, is a very safe place to stay. However, there are a few
precautions that you might want to take into consideration.
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Security within the apartment is handled very well.
It is usually a good idea to always travel in groups. It’s not bad but the extra
support keeps anyone at bay.
You definitely have to watch for pickpockets. Cramming on the buses in the
inner city, people are pressed right up against you. It is very easy to get things
stolen out of a purse, or jacket pocket. Americans are prime targets for pick
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pocketing. Also you must be aware that children are capable of pick pocketing as
well.
Make sure you keep your passport secure. Make several copies to take with you.
If you are not leaving the country, keep your passport in the apartment.
Night Life:
There is an array of great places to explore and visit during your stay in Rome.
Keep in mind, Italians do not get drunk. It is not their idea of a typical night when going
out. There is no drinking age, but they frown on being drunk in public. If you find the
right pubs and dance clubs it can be a good time. Most students seemed to recommend a
beach party every Thursday that they participated in routinely. It is out in Ostia.
In some restaurants you may have to be careful. In Europe it is common to
charge for a sitting fee in a restaurant, and also they may bring bread to the table or water,
and charge you for that.
Culture:
Remember that you are no longer in America. You are the foreigner now, and
most likely no one is going to speak your language. Most people will appreciate it if you
at least try to speak in Italian. You must accept this, and make the best of things. There
is no point in getting frustrated or mad because you cannot do anything about it. Having
patience is very important. It may be hard to understand someone who is trying to speak
with you in Italian. The best way to handle it is to stay calm. You must have a general
respect for the way they do things, and then you will get respect in return.
 Reverse Culture shock: Be prepared for this. After you return, you will constantly
relate things back to your time in Italy no matter how long your stay.
Food:
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50-75 (estimated) Euro a week
Grocery stores within walking distance of the apartments
Much cheaper to go to the store and buy food and cook at the apartment
Many restaurants in the area that are affordable
Food is excellent, and very fresh
Stores are much smaller
Much less refrigerator/freezer space than in U.S.
Final Thoughts:
Make sure you keep in touch with your family while you are abroad. Use e-mail,
and also, there are many affordable ways to make phone calls to your family. Also, when
you return home, make sure you keep in touch with the people you lived with while in
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Italy. These people were your family for those four months you spent together. Often,
these people will become lifelong friends if you manage to stay in touch. It is important
to keep that alive and have that memory forever.
Bibliography:
AUR website- www.aur.edu – About AUR
Britannica Student Encyclopedia- E-Library Online Services- www.rmu.edu
Google language translation- www.translate.google.com/translate
Contact Info:
Cathleen Jones
E-mail:
jones@rmu.edu
Phone: (412)262-8470
Dianne Jackson
E-mail:
jackson@rmu.edu
Phone: (412)262-8651
Stephan Circle
E-mail:
studyabroad@rmu.edu
Phone: (412)262- 8605
This handbook was compiled by Stephan Circle, and Danette Palmer, Student
Assistants to the International Exchange Programs Office, with the assistance of
Ben Stein, Vince Altieri, Audrey Swartz, Ashlee Boehm, and Anna Weaver.
Completed on February 23, 2005.
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