Has anyone ever done the semester at Sea program?

I'm going to study abroad at the University of Torino, has anyone done this?

• I am looking to study abroad in the spring semester of 2007, and was just looking to get some more information from someont hat has possibly done this program before, or at least been to Torino and can give me their opinion on the city (so I don't have to read these general things from web sites). I've been to Italy before but never traveled up to Torino. I don't speak Italian (I do speak decent Spanish, and understand it nearly fluently), but I know there is an Italian program you are required to take. I'm looking to do the program through USAC if that rings a bell with anyone. Anyhow, any kind of information would be much appreciated. This is in regards to school atmosphere, town atmosphere, things to do ... etc.

• Answer:

  Well, the Italian language is a must. It is not true that anybody speaks English. Probably in the hotels and in the touristic places, but not in the everyday life. In the University the classes are in Italian, only few people speak English out of the tourism. I suggest you to start learn some Italian in the USA. I live in Torino, my wife is American ans speaks Spanish ... she his having a lot of problems with the Italian. Italian and Spanish are a lot different. The city can be nice if you like baroque, the center is pleasant and nice to walk. In winter can be cold and in summer is hot. There are a lot of cultural possibility specially for young people and you will know a lot of guys and girls in the University, specially if you will live in a college. For the school atmosphere... I can't tell you because it depends of the university. I studied (as Italian) in the technical university and I can tell you that the atmosphere is not so friendly, everybody works hard. Study and travel in a foreign country is a great opportunity but don't be disappointed if almost nobody speaks English and people will emarginate you if you don't speak Italian. Sometimes happens (or at least you will feel emarginated because everybody around you will speak Italian even if nobody wants to emarginate you), you must be prepared also for this. Language is unfortunately a strong barrier.