One of the best aspects of studying abroad in Italy is that you have access to hundreds of interesting places to visit during your studies. Before you hop on the next train out of Rome, however, it’s important to remember to maintain a healthy balance between your classes and your passion for travel.
Studying on the go may seem like you have to juggle many different responsibilities in addition to your travel plans, but there are a few things to keep in mind that can help you stay on top of your academic work and still enjoy the adventures of your next destination.
It’s a Good Idea to Plan Ahead and Prepare before You Pack Your Bags
Living in the heart of Italy gives you irresistible options when it comes to travel—Florence and Venice are only hours away, and the Eurorail puts the rest of Europe at your fingertips. Although it may be tempting to drop everything and head to Paris for a weekend away, preparing ahead of time can help you stay ready for class on Monday.
Your syllabus is one of the best tools you can use to avoid having to cram a late-night study session after you arrive back in Rome. It helps you stay on top of your due dates and prepare assignments ahead of time. While you may be busy seeing the sights during the day, you can set aside time during the morning or evening to get your coursework out of the way and completed, giving you more time to enjoy and explore a new city, and keeping you prepared before you head back to class.
Incorporate Your Studies into the Places You Visit During Your Travels
Just because you’re stepping away from campus doesn’t mean you have to leave your coursework behind too. In fact, bringing your studies along with you can actually enrich your experience during your travels!
Visiting a new city while you study abroad is a great way to expand your horizons and learn more about something you may have never seen before, and you can also apply that to what you learn in class. Similar to our on-site visits throughout Rome, your coursework can come alive when you connect what you learn in class to real places and locations.
From learning regional history at a famous museum to putting your art history knowledge to the test by exploring the local art scene, incorporating yours studies into the places you explore gives you a hands-on, meaningful learning experience that you can take with you when it’s time to head back to class.
Remember to Travel Light and Use Your Academic Resources to Your Advantage
Chances are, the temptation of exploring your new destination will outweigh your desire to get a head start on next week’s homework. Try to compile the most relevant notes or coursework to browse through during downtime on a train or plane or in your hotel room.
Taking lightweight reading or study material with you can make studying seem less overwhelming, and you can easily fit some quality study time in on your way to and back from your next destination. You can even use your phone or laptop to access resources from John Cabot online, including our academic databases, which can help you research your next paper while you’re waiting for the train.
Are you interested in finding out what you can discover when you study abroad in Rome?
Contact John Cabot University for more information!
