Gustolab Food Systems & Sustainability

I had the amazing opportunity to visit Rome over this past spring break for a study abroad program with Gustolab. This week was everything I could have asked for in the trip and far more. We utilized every second we had to explore Rome and learn about food businesses in the area. From vineyard trips to agritourism farms, I got to see these businesses upfront and get a hands on experience while hearing from the owners and experts in the industry. I was always so excited for the next store/farm/restaurant that we had planned to visit for the day (very excited to see if there was a food tasting waiting for us!). My understanding of the food culture in Italy was completely broadened and enhanced from this study abroad experience with Gusto lab. I wish I could do it all over again!

Studying in Rome with GustoLab exceeded all of my expectations. As someone who had never traveled to outside of the US/Canada, I was absolutely blown away by everything this program had to offer. GustoLab helped fully immerse their students into Italian culture teaching us everything we need to know to thrive in the beautiful city. I have a completely new perspective on the world as a whole as well as food culture and sustainability. I needed this experience to open my eyes to different cultures and it did just that. I now feel more confident back in the US to pursue my goals and it gave me a sense of adventure I had never endured. I can't wait to go abroad again in the future and Rome will always have a huge place in my heart thanks to GustoLab and the people I met throughout the journey.

Gustolab Internation is such a unique study abroad program. If you are interested in food, sustainability or the culture of Italy, this is the right program for you. The classes are very informational, and most classes are out within the city of Rome, instead of in the classroom. Because of this, I went to a variety of places I would have never found on my own. Plus, Gustolab allows you to participate in very unique events such as hackathons and conferences. The housing proved was in the heart of Trastevere, and a short walk to most major monuments in the city center such as the pantheon. The staff was also very helpful, with both getting settled in Rome, and translating with locals when needed. The staff encouraged us to experience Rome in a unique way, where you felt at home instead of feeling like a tourist. Overall, I would recommend this program to anyone who is interested in the food culture and food systems of Italy.