Student life at John Cabot University goes far beyond the classroom. Through clubs, organizations, and campus events, students have the opportunity to build friendships, explore new interests, and become part of JCU’s international community in the heart of Rome.
Getting involved in student clubs and organizations can make the university experience even more meaningful. Whether participating in academic societies, creative clubs, or social activities, students develop valuable skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and cultural awareness while creating lasting memories abroad.
Elba Maria Peña, originally from Monterrey, Mexico, is a junior at American University in Washington, D.C and spending the semester studying abroad at John Cabot University. Elba shares three student clubs that helped her feel connected and at home while studying in Rome.
Get Involved in Student Life at JCU
A crucial part of university life, apart from academics, is getting involved in social activities, including clubs, organizations, and student groups. For study abroad students, even though the experience may only last one semester, participating in clubs and attending events can make a huge difference. Getting involved helps students feel more integrated into the university community, especially when living in a foreign country where everything may feel new at first.
Joining clubs at JCU is also a great way to meet people, explore new interests, and make the most of your time in Rome.
Events Organized This Semester:
- Psychology Society
- Art and Design Club
- Board Game Club
1. Psychology Society at JCU
If you’re interested in psychology, or even just curious about how people think and behave, the Psychology Society is a great club to join at JCU. It’s a space where students can explore topics related to psychology and social sciences while also connecting with others who share similar interests.
What makes this club stand out is how interactive and engaging it is. Throughout the semester, members organize events like guest lectures, awareness discussions, and career-oriented talks. These activities not only help students learn beyond the classroom, but also give them the chance to hear from professors and professionals, ask questions, and better understand real-world applications of psychology.
The Psychology Society is also a great way to build connections. Whether you’re a psychology major or not, it creates a welcoming environment where students can meet people, share ideas, and feel more involved in the JCU community. Plus, you don’t need any prior knowledge to join, which makes it accessible to everyone.
Events Organized This Semester:
- Pet Therapy: An event designed to help students reduce stress and spend time with therapy dogs.
- Postcards to Send Home: An event created to help international and study abroad students feel more connected to home
- JCU's First Compassionate Wellbeing Event: Students participated in activities such as panels, art therapy, yoga, and more
2. Art and Design Club at JCU
If you enjoy being creative or want to explore different forms of artistic expression, the Art and Design Club is a great space to express yourself at JCU. This club brings together students interested in art, design, and creativity, regardless of their experience level.
One of the best things about this club is how hands-on it is. Throughout the semester, members organize activities like student-led workshops, exhibitions, and creative events where students can experiment with different artistic styles and media. It’s not just about learning — it’s about creating and sharing work with others.
The club also connects students with the broader art scene in Rome, making the experience even more unique. Through collaborations and events, students have the opportunity to engage with artists both within and outside the JCU community.
Overall, the Art and Design Club is perfect for students looking for a creative outlet, wanting to meet people with similar interests, and hoping to take advantage of being in a city as artistic as Rome.
Events Organized This Semester:
- Trastevere Turn Ups: A weekly gathering where students come together at the Trastevere Art Studios to draw, paint, listen to music, and socialize in a creative environment.
- Beads with BASA: A collaborative event with the Black and African Student Association where students created their own jewelry while exploring cultural expression through art.
- Mosaic Tile Painting: In collaboration with the Arab Student Association, students designed and painted mosaic pieces inspired by traditional artistic styles.
3. Board Game Club at JCU
If you’re looking for a fun and low-pressure way to meet people, the Board Game Club is one of the best options at JCU. It’s a welcoming space where students can relax, take a break from classes, and connect with others through games.
What makes this club especially great for study abroad students is how easy it is to join. You don’t need to know anyone or have experience with board games — everyone is welcome, and students can simply show up and start playing. The club creates a comfortable environment where it’s easy to meet new people and feel included.
Members host weekly board game nights where students can drop in, play different types of games, and stay for as long as they’d like. Whether you enjoy strategy games or just want something casual and fun, there’s always something for everyone.
Overall, the Board Game Club is perfect for students looking for a social, stress-free activity and a way to build connections while enjoying student life at JCU.
Events Organized This Semester:
- Mario Kart 8 Competition: A friendly tournament where students competed in Mario Kart races.
- LEGO Competition Night: A creative and interactive event where students built designs and participated in LEGO challenges.
- Just Dance Event: An energetic event where students came together to dance, socialize, and take a break from academic stress.
Join Student Clubs and Get Involved
Getting involved in clubs is one of the best ways to make the most of your university experience in Rome. Whether you’re interested in academic topics, creative activities, leadership opportunities, or simply meeting new people, there is a club, society, or student group for everyone at JCU.
Beyond academics, student organizations help students build confidence, develop leadership and communication skills, and become part of a supportive international community. Many students find that the friendships and experiences they gain through clubs become some of the most memorable parts of their time abroad.
Ready to experience student life at JCU? Explore how you can earn your degree or study abroad in Rome and become part of John Cabot University’s community. Explore our Student Life programs or contact our Admissions Office at admissions@johncabot.edu to learn how you can begin your journey at JCU.
