Admissions Blog - John Cabot University

Study Abroad in Rome: 5 Soft Skills for Success in the JCU Community

Written by John Cabot University | March 22, 2024 9:38:42 AM Z

If you’re reading this, you may already be looking to study abroad in Rome and join John Cabot University's unique community. Our unique liberal arts university in the heart of Rome, Italy, offers an unparalleled learning experience that aims to enrich all areas of students' lives.

As you embark on your study abroad journey, you're not just gaining an academic education but stepping into a world of cultural immersion and personal growth. To thrive in this exciting new environment, developing specific soft skills that will enhance your university experience and prepare you for a successful future is crucial. 

Here are five essential soft skills for success at JCU and how your time at JCU will help you develop them. 

 

1. Exercise Adaptability to Thrive as You Study Abroad in Rome

Studying abroad in Rome means embracing change and navigating new situations daily. Adaptability is crucial in making the most of your experience. It's about being open to new ideas, adjusting to different teaching styles, and being flexible with your plans. This skill will help you handle the unexpected and transform challenges into opportunities for learning and growth. 

We discussed this with a student studying abroad named Peter Donaldson. He recalls his time at JCU, comparing it to a ‘game or puzzle’ with each small triumph strengthening his ability to adapt. What an insightful perspective. He said:Studying abroad improved my adaptability and quick problem-solving. Living in a foreign country with a different language and customs can prove challenging. Rome can especially be a difficult city to navigate. However, I enjoyed this part of my experience in discovering how to figure out Rome.”

 

2. Cross-Cultural Communication Is a Major Asset

As you study abroad in Rome, you'll be part of a diverse community with students from over 70 countries. Effective communication across cultures is vital. It involves being mindful of cultural nuances, respecting different perspectives, and finding common ground. By honing your cross-cultural communication skills, you'll build stronger relationships, enhance your global awareness, and prepare for a career in an increasingly interconnected world.

 

Cross-cultural communication skills are essential at our multicultural university in Rome

 

3. Pursue High Academic Achievement With Strong Time Management Skills

Balancing academics, social activities, and personal time can be challenging, especially when you attend our fun, vibrant university in Rome. Developing strong time management skills is essential. It means setting priorities, creating a schedule, and sticking to it. By managing your time effectively, you'll reduce stress, achieve your goals, and still have time to explore everything Rome offers.

 

4. Draw From Your Resilience to Face Challenges Head-on

Studying abroad can be an emotional rollercoaster. There will be highs, such as discovering new places and making lifelong friends, but lows, like dealing with homesickness or academic pressure. 

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from these challenges. It's about staying positive, seeking support, and learning from your experiences. A resilient attitude will help you navigate your time at JCU and equip you for future ups and downs.

 

Resilience helps you face challenges when you study abroad in Italy

 

5. Self-Awareness Fosters Positive Growth

Studying abroad is a journey of self-discovery. It's an opportunity to reflect on your values, strengths, and areas for growth. Self-awareness will help you make informed decisions, set personal goals, and embrace your unique identity. As you become more self-aware, you'll find it easier to adapt, communicate, manage your time, and remain resilient.

At John Cabot University, these soft skills are just as necessary as academic knowledge. Alumna Anastasiia Shmatina agrees. In our discussion, she emphasized the importance of soft skills, particularly when working with others.

She shared some soft skills and advice that helped her succeed at JCU. She encouraged us to remain open to change, be inspired by others without imitating them, and strive to be problem solvers. As you join the JCU community, we encourage you to embrace these skills, challenge yourself, and maximize this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

 

Are you ready to study abroad in Italy?

Contact John Cabot University for more information!