Studying abroad is more than just a semester in a new country - it’s an opportunity to explore a different culture, grow academically, and gain a global perspective. Every semester, John Cabot University welcomes students from across the world, and this spring, we welcome Elba Maria Peña originally from Monterrey, Mexico.
Elba, a junior at American University in Washington, D.C., majoring in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization, is experiencing life in Rome while also completing a Marketing internship with the JCU Student Engagement Office. Through her unique perspective as a study abroad student, she shares how living in Rome has expanded her understanding of culture, food, language, and university life. Her reflections highlight the challenges and rewards of adapting to a new environment and making the most of every moment abroad.
Adjusting to Life as a Study Abroad Student in Rome
Before coming to Rome, I thought studying abroad would feel like a long vacation. I imagined living and studying in another country would feel like a never-ending semester story, as I would be constantly exploring new places, eating pasta all day, etc.
While some parts are true, no one really tells you how this experience challenges you, pushes you toward independence, and encourages you to step outside of your comfort zone. Life as a study abroad student in Rome has slowly helped me grow into the person that I have always wanted to be.
During my first weeks in Rome, I remember feeling very “homesick”. Being so far away from my country and facing many cultural differences at the same time was a challenge. However, as time went by I started comparing and contrasting Italian culture with Mexican culture, which made me realize that we have lots of things in common.
Comparing Mexico vs Italy
Before coming to Italy, I remember someone had told me “Italians are like Mexicans, but living in Europe”. Ever since I heard that phrase, I have been paying close attention to how Italy’s people, food, and culture compare with those of Mexico.
Mexicans are often described as having the friendliest people, one of the best foods worldwide, and having a unique culture. After living some time in Rome, I can proudly agree with what people say.
People in Mexico vs Italy
Mexicans are usually described as being fun and friendly, precisely because we treat strangers or Latinos, as if they were family. Compared to Italians, I've noticed that people here are so direct and sometimes intense, but friendly at the same time. Whether it’s in a supermarket, or on a social plan, or in a coffee shop, in a vintage market, etc. people are always going to be nice to you. I also noticed whether you’re in class or in a random shop, Italians have very interesting phrases.
Phrases like:
- “Allora!” = So, Then, Well
- “Brava!” = Bravo
- “Silenzio!” = Silence (usually used mainly in classes)
- “Amore Mio!” = My love
- “Buongiorno” = Hello
- “Arrivederci” = Goodbye
- “Andiamo” = Let’s go
- “Bon dia” = Good Day
Italian Food vs Mexican Food
One of the toughest questions I have been asked is “What do you prefer Italian or Mexican food?”. Having the opportunity to live in both countries has given me the chance to taste different foods. Personally I think that Mexican and Italian foods are the best worldwide.
But after living some months in Rome, I’ve clearly noticed that I would always prefer Italian food, over any other types. Rome has lots of wonderful places to eat.
- Tiramisu: There are lots of places to get tiramisu of different flavors.
- Pasta to Go: Pasta to go is one the best foods to eat, if you’re in a hurry.
- Gelato: There is always going to be gelato in every single corner around this city.
- Pizza: Trastevere also has lots of great places to get pizza, for a break in between classes.
- Limone: One of the most famous places to get lemon gelato in a lemon cut in half in Trastevere.
Music in Italy
While in Mexico there is a lot of Mariachi, bachata, salsa, and reggaeton music. The meaning of the words are somewhat understandable with Italian music. Before coming to Rome, people would tell me that it is easier for Mexicans to learn Italian, however, up until now I would say that it is easy to understand the words, but a little bit difficult to talk in Italian.
Live music is something that I’ve noticed that Rome has a lot. There are always people playing their guitars, drums, and even singing. Italian music is often used as a very romantic way of communicating in a calm way in the streets of Rome. One of my favorite Italian songs would be “Sara Perche Ti Amo”, even though I’m still trying to figure out the exact translation of the words.
Italian Fashion and Everyday Style
The way of dressing in Italy is the opposite as in Mexico. In most parts of Mexico, it’s usually very hot, which is why people often dress in casual, warm weather clothes, however, when it gets cold, they would cover themselves with puffer jackets, and hoodies.
But when I got to Rome in January, I noticed that I needed to learn how to dress from this beautiful country. Everyone was dressed in cold weather clothes. They would use stylish coats, leather jackets, colorful sweaters, formal blouses, and elegant blazers. I would also remember I would see people wearing nice boots, or formal shoes, almost no one would use tennis shoes.
Student Life at JCU
Being a study abroad student from Mexico and completing a marketing internship has helped me get to know more about John Cabot University and its events. The JCU clubs like BASA, Film, Media & Cooms Society, Board Game Club, Psychology Society, OLAC, and many more are very interesting to attend. There are clubs from different cultures and topics, which have helped me meet new people, and discover more about their traditions from all over the world.
Attending events to take pictures and make content creation has definitely helped shape my time abroad, since I get to open up myself, and learn valuable insights with the different activities.
Elba’s experience in Rome demonstrates how studying abroad at John Cabot University offers more than classroom learning - it provides students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture, make global connections, and develop personal and professional skills.
From exploring the culinary delights of Rome to participating in JCU clubs and events, Elba’s journey shows how living and studying abroad encourages growth, independence, and cultural understanding. For students considering an international semester, John Cabot University offers a supportive, dynamic environment to discover the charms of Rome while gaining valuable academic and life experiences.
Discover how you can experience life as a study abroad student in Rome and become part of a vibrant, international community at John Cabot University. Explore our Study Abroad program or contact our Admissions Office at studyabroad@johncabot.edu to learn how you can begin your journey at JCU.
