Summer Abroad in Italy, Rome

Applying to College
1

<p>Hi everyone, </p>

<p>I am planning to graduate in Spring 2014 with a Bachelors in Materials Science, but there is a conflict between two required courses. I can still participate in the commencement, but filing for graduation will be delayed to Summer 2014 instead of Spring 2014. So, I thought about studying abroad for my last required class if I cannot take the two required courses concurrently due to 1 hour overlap. Meaning, I will have to pick 1 of the required class to take in Spring 2014. One class is only offered once a year, and the other is offered all year round (the one with summer abroad). </p>

<p>I wonder if studying abroad in Italy is a good idea? I'll try to petition to take the two courses in Spring concurrently though. Unless I am super convinced to go, I will start finishing my application to go Study Abroad and graduate in Summer 2014. My main concern is, if I can take the two classes and graduate Spring 2014 rather than delaying to Summer 2014, is it worth delaying my diploma/graduation for Studying Abroad?</p>

2

<p>The short answer is yes. If you have never lived abroad, it can completely change your outlook and direction. That is certainly what happened to me. It is so different from tourism - to live in an environment, learn a language, explore deeply at leisure - that you cannot imagine how wonderful it can be. </p>

<p>Italy is a funny place. It got a lot of bad press from the Knox episode. We lived there for 4 years and, in spite of all the problems, it was an amazing experience, particularly for our kids. There is so much history, beauty, food, and youthful exuberance. </p>