--- title: "From Rome to New York: A JCU Student’s Direct Exchange Experience at Brooklyn College" description: Discover what it’s like to study abroad in New York as a John Cabot University student, from campus life at Brooklyn College to navigating the city and adapting to a new culture. image: https://blog.johncabot.edu/hubfs/IMG_9655.jpeg --- [![JCULogo1](https://blog.johncabot.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/JCULogo1.png?width=300&height=80&name=JCULogo1.png "JCULogo1")](https://blog.johncabot.edu/blog?hsLang=en) [![JCULogo2](https://blog.johncabot.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/JCULogo2.png?width=300&height=82&name=JCULogo2.png "JCULogo2")](https://blog.johncabot.edu/blog?hsLang=en) - [Undergraduate](https://blog.johncabot.edu/tag/undergraduate) - [Graduate](https://blog.johncabot.edu/tag/graduate) - [Study Abroad](https://blog.johncabot.edu/tag/study-abroad) - [Italian](https://blog.johncabot.edu/it/blog) - [Website](https://www.johncabot.edu/) - Filter By Topics - Scegli Il Topic - [All](https://blog.johncabot.edu) - 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For [John Cabot University](https://www.johncabot.edu/) students, the [Direct Exchange Program](https://www.johncabot.edu/academics/direct-exchange) offers the opportunity to experience university life at one of JCU’s partner institutions while continuing to earning transferable credits toward their degree.  Direct Exchange allows eligible, degree-seeking students to spend a semester or academic year abroad at a partner university around the world. Beyond the classroom, studying in a new city can give students the opportunity to develop greater independence, encounter different perspectives, and experience a new culture and community. For JCU student Elena Raffone, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Business Administration, that opportunity meant spending a semester at Brooklyn College in New York City. From navigating the subway and discovering cultural differences to becoming part of a new campus community, Elena’s experience has shown her that studying abroad is about much more than exploring a new city. In the following article, she shares what she has learned about adapting to life in New York, embracing new experiences, and making the most of a semester abroad. ## **A City That Never Sleeps** *What I always say is: if you’re bored in New York City, it’s your own fault.* New York is known as the city that never sleeps, and after spending a semester here as a John Cabot University student participating in the direct exchange program at Brooklyn College, I understand why. There is always something happening, somewhere new to explore, or someone new to meet. But studying abroad is about much more than visiting famous landmarks. It is about learning to adapt, becoming independent, and discovering new perspectives. ![IMG\_9386](https://blog.johncabot.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_9386.jpeg?width=770&height=494&name=IMG_9386.jpeg) ### Two Sides of New York I live in Midtown Manhattan and attend classes at Brooklyn College, so my daily routine takes me between two different parts of the city in 50 minutes. Midtown is surrounded by skyscrapers, restaurants, shops, and people constantly rushing somewhere. Brooklyn has its own atmosphere, and moving between the two has helped me appreciate the diversity of New York. One of my biggest challenges has been learning to navigate the subway. With so many lines, connections, and stations, getting from one place to another can feel overwhelming at first. You quickly learn that planning your route is essential, especially when traveling between Manhattan and Brooklyn. However, the subway is also one of the most interesting places to observe everyday life. I have often encountered people playing music in subway stations or on trains, turning an ordinary commute into an unexpected performance. These moments capture something special about New York: creativity is everywhere, and even the most routine part of your day can surprise you. ![IMG\_9388-1](https://blog.johncabot.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_9388-1.jpeg?width=770&height=509&name=IMG_9388-1.jpeg) ### The Little Things That Make New York Different Some cultural differences are not immediately obvious. They are the little things you notice while walking around, talking to people, or simply going about your day. One of my favorite things about New York is how people compliment strangers. Someone might stop you on the street just to say they love your outfit, even if you have never met before. These small interactions can make you smile and remind you how much people appreciate individuality and self-expression. Fashion is such a visible part of the city's identity, and seeing people express themselves through their clothes makes every walk an opportunity to discover something new. Food is another interesting difference. Coming from Italy, I am used to a food culture closely connected to tradition, quality ingredients, and spending time around the table. In New York, the variety is incredible: you can discover cuisines from all over the world, sometimes within just a few blocks. At the same time, the fast pace of everyday life makes grabbing something on the go a common part of the routine. These differences have made me appreciate both the opportunity to discover new habits and the traditions I grew up with. They have also taught me that adapting to another culture does not mean abandoning your own. ![IMG\_1141](https://blog.johncabot.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_1141.jpeg?width=770&height=513&name=IMG_1141.jpeg) ### Learning to Adapt One of the most important lessons I have learned is that you cannot expect an entire culture to adapt to you. When you move to another country, it is natural to compare everything with what you know. However, studying abroad requires you to remain open-minded and accept that there are different ways of communicating, living, and approaching everyday situations. This does not mean changing who you are. It means being willing to understand other people's perspectives instead of assuming that your own habits are the only right ones. New York makes this lesson particularly meaningful because of its cultural diversity. You encounter people from different countries and backgrounds every day, and each interaction offers an opportunity to learn something new. Another important lesson is to always be aware of your surroundings. New York is exciting, but like any major city, it requires you to pay attention, plan your journeys, and make responsible decisions, especially when traveling alone or at night. Independence also means knowing how to take care of yourself. ### Becoming Part of the Brooklyn College Community Beyond exploring the city, one of the most rewarding aspects of my exchange experience has been campus life at Brooklyn College. University life offers much more than lectures and exams: there are sporting events, student activities, and opportunities to connect with people outside the classroom. One particularly meaningful experience was having the opportunity to represent John Cabot University and promote both JCU and the Study Abroad in Rome program to Brooklyn College students. It allowed me to share my university experience and introduce American students to the possibility of studying in Rome. This opportunity reminded me that an exchange is a two-way experience. You learn from the university and community you join, but you also bring your own culture, experiences, and perspective to share with others. I have also appreciated how approachable and supportive the professors are. Knowing that you can ask questions and seek guidance makes a real difference when adjusting to a new academic environment. My advice is to take advantage of everything the university offers. Attend sporting events, participate in campus activities, talk to people, and get involved. Some of the most valuable experiences happen outside the classroom, and you will never discover them if you do not make the effort to participate. ![IMG\_0104](https://blog.johncabot.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_0104.jpeg?width=770&height=495&name=IMG_0104.jpeg) ### Making the Most of Every Day Living in Midtown means that many of New York’s most recognizable landmarks are right outside your door. There is something special about leaving home and seeing places you have known for years through movies, photographs, and social media suddenly becoming part of your everyday life. From Times Square to Hudson Yards and the Empire State Building, there is always somewhere to go, and sometimes simply walking through the streets is an experience in itself. New York also offers countless opportunities to explore its cultural side. The city is home to an incredible variety of museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions, many of which are worth visiting at least once during your semester. Brooklyn College also offers student discounts and opportunities to access cultural experiences at reduced prices, making it easier to discover the city without spending too much money. Taking advantage of these opportunities is a great way to explore New York while making the most of your time as a student. Enjoying the city does not always require spending money or planning something extraordinary. Walking through Central Park, exploring a different neighborhood, watching the sunset along the Hudson River, or discovering a new café can become memorable experiences. I would encourage every student coming to New York to explore beyond the places they already know from movies and social media. At the same time, do not put pressure on yourself to experience everything in one semester. There will always be another place to discover or another event to attend. Sometimes, simply paying attention to the city around you is enough. ### What Studying Abroad Has Taught Me Studying abroad is not simply about changing your location; it is about changing your perspective. You learn to become more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. You discover that the world is much bigger than the environment you are used to, and that stepping outside your comfort zone can teach you lessons that a classroom alone cannot. For JCU students considering the direct exchange program at Brooklyn College, my advice is simple: be curious, respect cultural differences, stay aware of your surroundings, and take advantage of every opportunity. You do not have to feel confident every day or have everything figured out immediately. Sometimes, growth simply means trying something unfamiliar. Most importantly, do not spend your semester waiting for the perfect moment to explore, meet people, or try something different. Give yourself the chance to experience the city beyond your expectations, because there is always something happening in New York, and sometimes the most memorable experiences are the ones you never planned. After all, in a city that never sleeps, you never know what opportunity, place, or person might make your experience unforgettable. ![IMG\_0320](https://blog.johncabot.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_0320.jpeg?width=770&height=448&name=IMG_0320.jpeg) ### Making the Most of Your Study Abroad Experience Elena’s semester in New York shows that studying abroad is about much more than discovering a new city. It is an opportunity to become more independent, adapt to unfamiliar situations, connect with a new academic community, and gain a broader understanding of the world. From navigating everyday life in Manhattan to representing JCU at Brooklyn College, her experience demonstrates how much students can learn both inside and outside the classroom. Through [JCU's Direct Exchange Program](https://www.johncabot.edu/academics/direct-exchange), students can spend a semester at one of JCU’s partner universities, experience a different academic environment, and earn transferable credits toward their degree. The program offers a chance to step outside familiar routines, explore new perspectives, and grow both personally and academically. ### FAQs About JCU's Direct Exchange Program What is Direct Exchange at John Cabot University? JCU's Direct Exchange program allows eligible degree-seeking students to spend a semester studying at one of JCU's partner universities around the world. Students continue to pay JCU tuition while abroad and can transfer eligible credits back toward their JCU degree. Who can participate in JCU's Direct Exchange program? The program is open to degree-seeking JCU students who meet the eligibility requirements for studying abroad. Students should review the current program requirements when considering a Direct Exchange. Do students pay tuition to the host university? No. Students participating in JCU's Direct Exchange program continue to pay JCU tuition, including applicable financial aid awards, rather than paying tuition to the host university. Students are responsible for housing, transportation, and living expenses while abroad. Can I earn credits while studying abroad? Yes. Students can take courses at their host university and transfer eligible credits back to JCU, allowing them to continue making progress toward their degree while studying abroad. What are the benefits of studying abroad through Direct Exchange? A Direct Exchange can give students the opportunity to gain international academic experience, develop independence and resilience, encounter new perspectives, and experience everyday life in another country. Where can JCU students study abroad? JCU has direct exchange agreements with universities around the world. Available destinations and partner universities may change, so students should consult JCU's Direct Exchange program for the current list of opportunities. --- Learn more about the [Direct Exchange program](https://www.johncabot.edu/academics/direct-exchange) at John Cabot University or contact [directexchange@johncabot.edu](mailto:directexchange@johncabot.edu)for more information.  [Previous Post](https://blog.johncabot.edu/studying-abroad-rome-student-budget-tips?hsLang=en) [View all posts](https://blog.johncabot.edu) ### Subscribe Here! ### Recommended Reading [Undergraduate](https://blog.johncabot.edu/topic/undergraduate?hsLang=en) [Student Spotlight](https://blog.johncabot.edu/topic/student-spotlight?hsLang=en) [Direct Exchange](https://blog.johncabot.edu/topic/direct-exchange?hsLang=en) ##### [Studying Abroad in Rome on a Student Budget: Tips From a JCU Student](https://blog.johncabot.edu/studying-abroad-rome-student-budget-tips?hsLang=en) By [Charlotte Kovacich](https://blog.johncabot.edu/author/charlotte-kovacich) / October 23, 2026 [Continue Reading](https://blog.johncabot.edu/studying-abroad-rome-student-budget-tips?hsLang=en) [Undergraduate](https://blog.johncabot.edu/topic/undergraduate?hsLang=en) [Student Spotlight](https://blog.johncabot.edu/topic/student-spotlight?hsLang=en) [Direct Exchange](https://blog.johncabot.edu/topic/direct-exchange?hsLang=en) ##### [From JCU Internship to Film Festival: A Student's Experience With So Fare Films](https://blog.johncabot.edu/internship-so-far-films-religion-today-film-festival?hsLang=en) By [Ximena Coster](https://blog.johncabot.edu/author/ximena-coster) / October 9, 2026 [Continue Reading](https://blog.johncabot.edu/internship-so-far-films-religion-today-film-festival?hsLang=en) ### Subscribe and stay up to date ### Subscribe and stay up to date - [Academics](https://www.johncabot.edu/academics/default.aspx) - [Admissions](https://www.johncabot.edu/admissions/default.aspx) - [Student Life](https://www.johncabot.edu/student-life/default.aspx) - [About JCU](https://www.johncabot.edu/about-jcu/default.aspx) - [Studenti Italiani](https://www.johncabot.edu/universita-americana/default.aspx) - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JohnCabotUniversity) - [Twitter](https://twitter.com/JohnCabotRome) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/school/john-cabot-university/) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/JohnCabotUniversity) - [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/johncabotuniversity) ![](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/3067823/phone.svg) [+39066819121](tel:+39066819121) ![](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/3067823/email.svg) [admissions@johncabot.edu](mailto:admissions@johncabot.edu) ![](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/3067823/address.svg) Via della Lungara 233 00165 Rome, Italy [©](https://a.cms.omniupdate.com/11/?skin=oucampus&account=john-cabot&site=www&action=de&path=/default.pcf) 2025 John Cabot University ### Request Info »