Spring Break 2023 Participant
Do research into the Italian government and their taxes in order to be able to fully understand how universal healthcare is paid for. Additionally, be able to compare public vs private healthcare in Italy before going so that while you are there you can ask more about the opinions of the healthcare professionals you interact with rather than having them give you a history lesson.
Spring Break 2025 Participant
I'm not quite sure if this applies to future KU students or future study-abroad students, so I will answer both! For future KU students, I strongly encourage looking into a study abroad experience. As someone coming from a background of poverty, this merely seemed to be a dream that I most likely could never achieve. Do not lose hope! KU offers a large variety of resources and financial aid to make these dreams become a reality, and while the application process is long and takes a lot of effort, it all becomes incredibly worth it once you set foot in the country you are set to study in. Simply expanding your horizons both academically and culturally is one of the best ways to become more knowledgeable and experienced in your field of choice, and in addition, it is so much fun! For future study abroad students, I cannot express enough how important it is to read into the culture and society you plan to visit and be aware of any shocks that may come. For Italy specifically, I definitely wish I had put even more effort into learning at least conversational phrases. While the people at your institutions may be forgiving, that does not always translate to the public. Additionally, Italians are very quiet people! If you speak at a normal American volume level, you absolutely will be stared at. That being said, just out of respect, read up on your country of choice and be prepared for even the smallest things! Oh! Definitely do not take it for granted either. While eating at McDonald's may be enticing, I strongly encourage challenging yourself to not eat anywhere or anything you can normally find in the States. Try shopping outside tourist traps, support local businesses, and visit as many museums and sites as possible, no matter how tired you are! Jet lag is rough, but you will regret taking that nap as soon as you step foot back into the States. I promise.
Spring Break 2025 Participant
Talk to anyone and everyone! Take the long way and take wrong turns on purpose. Leaving the beaten path and striking up conversations with strangers made for the most memorable parts.
