Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. No one can argue with that. But Rome's beauty goes beyond the famous sites and touristic attractions. When you study at John Cabot University, you get an insider's perspective of the Eternal City, and you get to see Rome at it's most beautiful time: when the seasons change.
There's something special about being in the midst of a magical city when it's in transition from one time of year to the next. Not only does the weather change, but the entire atmosphere - the people, the mood, and the emotion- changes with it.
Summer to Fall
When summer fades into fall, it doesn't just happen overnight. JCU students experience this shift. The crowds of tourists slowly start to trickle down. Locals return from their beach holidays and reopen their neighborhood shops and restaurants. The trees along the Tiber River begin changing colors, and the leaves start falling. Classes and the academic year dive into full-swing, and students get into their study zones. More rainy days come and go, and the overall fashion and style of the city adapts. Umbrellas, sweaters and boots become essentials as students leave their apartments to brave the day.
Fall to Winter
While the transition from summer to fall is definitely wonderful, the real magic comes when fall turns into winter. Each day when you step out onto the streets of Trastevere, you notice something different. The air gets colder, the little corner coffee shops get cozier, and while the city gets more and more festive, somehow there's a sense of stillness surrounding you.
As it's time to start getting ready for final exams, there is a strange sense of peace in the air. Don't get me wrong, students will definitely be stressing about their exams and spending lots of evenings finishing papers and studying at the library. Still, the city's seasonal transition soothes the end-of-semester chaos, and those late nights on campus mean you get to slowly stroll home beneath the hanging holiday lights. Winter means that there are more decorations to be seen around town every day.
Vendors start roasting chestnuts on the streets of the historic city center. Stores start selling cozy holiday decor, and piazzas turn into Christmas markets. But what I think makes this time of year the most special, is just how Rome shines in all its glory. Whether you're excited to be finishing up your classes, you're ready to set New Year's resolutions, or you just love the colder weather...there is always something to look forward to everyday as you enter a new season.
Alexa Vujaklija (Shearer)
Class of 2015
Communications major
Grew up in the United States, Germany, the Republic of Georgia, Russia, and Bulgaria
