At John Cabot University, we believe that higher education should prepare students for a global future while allowing them to thrive in the city they call home. Studying in Rome provides a unique opportunity to combine an American-style education with the rich cultural and historical backdrop of one of the world’s greatest cities. To illustrate what this experience looks like in practice, we spoke with Benedetta Sparvieri, an Italian student who chose JCU for her undergraduate degree and shares why she felt it was the perfect choice.
Growing up in Italy, I always imagined pursuing a university path that would allow me to combine global opportunity with the familiarity of home. When it came time to choose where to study, I realized that traditional Italian universities, with their large lecture halls and rigid academic structures, didn’t fully match the kind of education I wanted. I wanted something more international, more dynamic, and more practical. That is ultimately why I chose to attend John Cabot University. Studying at JCU has allowed me to access an international, English-speaking education without giving up living in Italy.
For me, the choice wasn’t simply about convenience - it was about future possibilities, personal growth, and the kind of mindset I wanted to develop.
When I began researching universities, I felt strongly that I wanted an education that emphasized critical thinking, discussion, and a liberal-arts approach. The American system aligned perfectly with my academic preferences. The idea of studying in small classes, participating actively, and getting to know my professors personally immediately appealed to me.
Most importantly, the fact that JCU offers all its classes in English was a major factor in my decision. I wanted to become completely comfortable using English in an academic and professional context, knowing that fluency would open doors in my career. By studying at an American university while still living in Italy, I could strengthen my international skill set without the high cost - and emotional difficulty - of moving to another country at 18.
One of the first things that attracted me to JCU was reading about its international student community. I loved the idea of being surrounded by people from all over the world while still living in my home city. As an Italian student, this balance was ideal: I could maintain my cultural roots but also challenge myself by connecting with classmates who bring completely different perspectives.
Being in classrooms with students from the U.S., the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe has changed the way I understand the world. Group discussions are richer, conversations go beyond textbooks, and I feel like I am constantly learning - not just from professors, but also from my peers. I chose JCU because I knew I wanted an education that didn’t stop at the Italian or European point of view. I wanted a global one.
Another reason I chose JCU is because I realized that studying in Rome gives me access to one of the world's greatest cultural capitals. It may sound obvious since I grew up in Italy, but I started to see Rome differently once I imagined myself studying there through an international lens. JCU incorporates the city into its courses - site visits, museum trips, walking tours, and experiential learning assignments are common.
I appreciated that at JCU, Rome is not just the place where you live; it is part of your education. The idea that I could walk past monuments on my way to class or study marketing next to major global brands located in Rome felt inspiring. I wanted to experience my city not only as an Italian, but as a student building an international academic profile.
Another key reason behind my decision was the professional support JCU offers. While researching the university, I discovered the strong reputation of its Center for Career Services and the wide network of internships available in Rome. For me, this was essential. Traditional universities don’t always create bridges between academic life and real work experience, but JCU does exactly that.
I chose JCU because I saw that it would help me become competitive in the job market. The possibility of interning at multinational companies, NGOs, embassies, or Italian firms with global presence - all while still a student - made JCU stand out. I knew that getting hands-on experience during my degree would give me a major advantage when applying for jobs in Italy or abroad.
Furthermore, JCU fosters an entrepreneurial mindset through events, competitions, and mentorship. As someone studying business and interested in innovation, I found this incredibly motivating. I wanted to be in a place where creativity, professionalism, and international thinking are encouraged daily
Although JCU is located in Italy, attending an American university has pushed me outside my comfort zone more than I expected. Classes require constant participation, assignments involve teamwork, and the multicultural environment forces you to adapt quickly. Even though I didn’t move to another country, I still feel like my university experience is “international”.
Choosing JCU has helped me grow in confidence, independence, and open-mindedness. Speaking English daily, collaborating with classmates from around the world, and managing an academically demanding workload have strengthened my resilience and communication skills. I’ve learned how to express my ideas clearly, debate respectfully, and navigate cultural differences—skills that are increasingly necessary in the global job market.
As an Italian, staying close to home while still gaining a study-abroad atmosphere was the perfect balance. I didn’t have to give up my Italian identity to experience international education; instead, JCU has allowed me to deepen my understanding of both.
Ultimately, I chose John Cabot University because it represented an academic environment where I could grow as a student and as a person. I knew I wanted:
JCU offered all of this and more. It allowed me to stay connected to my family, my language, and my culture while simultaneously building a global mindset.
Choosing an American university in Italy wasn’t just an academic decision; it was a personal one. I wanted the world to feel close, even while staying in Rome - and JCU has turned out to be the perfect bridge between home and the global future I aim for.
By telling my story, I hope to inspire someone who is still uncertain about their path and help them move closer to their own dreams. Choosing JCU has been transformative for me, and sharing that experience feels like a way of giving back to the community that shaped me. If my journey can guide even one person, then it’s already worth it.
Benedetta’s journey shows how studying at an American university in Italy can combine both academic rigor with personal growth, preparing students for a global career. Inspired to learn more about John Cabot University? Visit our Academics page or email admissions@johncabot.edu to schedule an informational call and start your own experience in Rome.