Study Abroad: The Capstone Experience

Danielle Aiken

Editor in Chief

I arrived in Rome, Italy in June, jet-lagged and wide-eyed, clutching my passport and holding my neck pillow. What began as a month abroad quickly turned into a life-altering experience filled with long-days, breathtaking views, and a newfound appreciation for dolce far niente — the sweetness of doing nothing.

As a student from Assumption heading into my senior year, I had always dreamed of studying abroad. Rome, with its mix of ancient ruins, piazzas and modern street life, seemed like the perfect place to immerse myself to collect experiences far beyond the pages of a textbook.

Besides, as I was fortunate enough to attend the SOPHIA trip to Rome the previous year, I was happy my Trevi Fountain wish came true – I returned back to Rome.

Assumption’s Rome campus (Villino Dufault) is just a short walk from the Vatican. Some mornings, we headed to St. Peter’s Basilica, watching nuns stroll past tourists with gelato in hand. Although, Roman life did take a bit of getting used to — extreme humidity, late dinners, strong espresso, and learning how to cross chaotic intersections with fear masked by confidence.

Although I was comfortable with Rome, we made it a priority to explore beyond the Eternal City. Italy’s high-speed trains and winding coastal roads beckoned to be explored. Over long weekends, we all ventured further — each trip adding its own chapter to my study abroad story.

Visiting Orvieto, Florence, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, and Positano all during my one month stay, allowed me to explore a variety of what Italy has to offer— and it felt like I never even touched the surface of the country.

A personal highlight for me was Sorrento, as it was far different from the type of life I have grown accustomed to in Rome and Florence. The beaches, of course, were stunning; with the water reflecting crystal clear. It was extremely humid, and I always felt the urge to shower everywhere I ventured, but I found comfort in the fact that every sight I saw would most likely be the first and only time I will see it. There is beauty in that.

But here is an unfortunate reality: The Rome campus is slipping away

Assumption has a one-of-a-kind program, which allows for students to study abroad for the same cost of enrollment at the Worcester campus. The program has traditionally offered semester-long and short-term (summer) courses, allowing students to earn academic credit while living and learning abroad.

I argue that the program is a key part of the university’s academic offerings — one that fosters cross-cultural understanding, personal growth and professional development. In addition to classroom learning, students gain exposure to develop language skills and build confidence navigating unfamiliar environments.

For many, this is more than just a learning opportunity — it’s their first chance to travel internationally, something they might not otherwise be able to afford or access. That was true for me. Before coming to Assumption, studying abroad felt out of reach due to financial limitations. But this university made it possible, and it changed my life.

I would be deeply disappointed to see future students miss out on the same transformative experience that so many alumni have cherished. The Rome campus’ future success relies on the interest and advocacy of students here back home.

So, if you’re even thinking about studying abroad — whether it’s through Assumption’s Rome campus or another global program — I urge you to take the leap. You won’t regret it. It’s a journey that stays with you forever.