USAC Italy: Viterbo-History, Art, Photography, & Journalism

I studied in the spring of 2025 and had a great time. The people in the program as well as the staff were al amazing, kind, and supportive. The city itself was really quaint however looking back I do wish I choose a bigger city just because it would have been more my vibe. That being said I did also enjoy the small town vibes a bit in terms of the food and the people. I became really close friends with a couple locals and still talk to them almost everyday now and for that reason alone I am thankful for my experience. The one thing I would point out is that if you go in the spring it is not going to be the Mediterranean weather you might be expecting it will be cold and very rainy. Very happy I experienced this and this program will be great for anyone interested in photography, history, food, or just likes the small town feel.

I wouldn't trade my time in Viterbo for anything. The classes were engaging, and the city itself was safe and exciting. As the weather warmed up, the shops and restaurants welcomed us in. The locals were all very kind and wanted to get to know us. The people were also amazing, and the ability to immerse ourselves in the culture was incredible.

Leaving for my study abroad experience was my first time leaving the United States in general. Understandably I was excited, but also a bit scared. When I first arrived I was tired, homesick, and just overall nervous. However, once I met up with our program directors these feelings were instantly relieved. Instead I was now beside myself with excitement for what each day had to offer. This program supported me and helped me feel safe in my new home, while also allowing me to go out and explore not just Italy, but the world. As someone who is more reserved I was worried I wouldn't live life to the fullest while studying abroad, but it was thanks to the support of the staff and friends I made along the way that I was able to branch out and learn more about who I am. The professors I had were exceptional. The amount I learned in that one semester surpassed any other semester before it. The first hand knowledge of my professors and the first hand experiences they granted me gave me a new passion for my degree. Along with the academics, I found confidence to not only travel to new countries, but to do it on my own, which led me to visit 4 other countries, some with friends and some without. Additionally, because of Viterbo's proximity to Rome, Rome became like a second home to me. The day trips we took to explore less traveled streets gave me a more in depth experience of urban livng in Italy. Study abroad is something I miss every day, and I am already planning a return trip to visit the places I came to love.