Details

• Italy
• BBE-18
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

My biggest tip for the semester abroad application process is to connect with students who have already been to your destination university, especially those who are currently there or were there just one semester before. Start by reading through the exchange reports to get the basics and an overview of their experiences. Then, reach out to them as early as possible. They can share super helpful insights like which WhatsApp groups to join, useful Instagram pages for uni life, tips on courses, and sometimes even pass on their accommodation. Also ask if they’re willing to share their Google Maps lists with saved recommendations, it’s an amazing shortcut to discovering the best spots.

2. Accommodation

My biggest recommendation is to contact students who are currently studying in your host city or were there the semester before you. Sometimes they’re looking for someone to take over their lease, which can save you a lot of time and stress. So start reaching out early because good apartments go fast! Where to look: Avoid Facebook Marketplace, several of my friends were scammed there. There are secure platforms like Spotahome, university ousing services (LUISS Residences), HousingAnywhere... Location & commute: Try to live as close to the university as possible. Check which specific campus your classes will be on and how well-connected that area is. Public transport varies; Metro is faster and more reliable, especially when strikes happen (often on Fridays). Buses can be cleaner and less crowded, but they run less frequently. Neighborhood: I lived in Flaminio — a very nice, residential area with lots of dogs and families, but still lively with bars. It was clean, safe, and had a great connection to my university and the city center. Areas like Monte Sacro aren’t necessarily dangerous, but they’re not the prettiest and can feel a bit remote. University residences (like LUISS ones) are also an option, but keep in mind: They can crash or fill up quickly (it happened to me). They usually require a minimum 5-month lease, while private apartments sometimes allow 4 months — that’s what I had.

3. Academic life at host university

At LUISS, there are 3 main campuses and where you will spend most of your time depends on your program and language courses. Business classes are usually held at the Viale Romania campus, while Italian language classes are typically located either at the Via Parenzo or occasionally at Via Pola. The campuses are on the smaller side and feel a bit more like a high school environment compared to WU, but they are very pretty. The teaching style is quite similar to what we have at WU: a combination of group projects, presentations throughout the semester. Exams generally count for only about 30% of your final grade, which takes away a lot of pressure and allows you to really enjoy your exchange experience. Class sizes are also smaller, around 50 students so professors get to know you more easily and discussions feel more interactive. I personally took Neuromarketing, Fashion Management, and Luxury Management. These courses were very engaging, included guest speakers, and allowed us to learn in a more practical way.

5. Every day life in the host country

The public transport in Rome is honestly not as bad as people say. There are occasional strikes, usually on Fridays, but apart from that it works quite well. Buses can sometimes be a bit unpredictable arriving a few minutes early or late so I’d recommend getting to the stop around five minutes before the scheduled time. The metro is also very efficient and easy to use. The monthly card is 35 euros. I felt completely safe in the city throughout my entire stay and never had any negative experiences. There is also a huge social scene for exchange students. ESN and ERA organize tons of activities like cooking classes, yoga, surfing, tennis, and of course plenty of parties, so you’ll definitely have no trouble meeting people and enjoying your time there.

6. Testimonial

I really loved my exchange experience, and I would recommend it to anyone considering it. One advice I’d give is to make sure you find a nice apartment in an area you genuinely enjoy, it makes such a difference. Also, make the most of what the university and organizations like ESN and ERA offer. Sign up for sports, take language courses, join extracurricular activities, go to events and parties, travel on weekend trips, try cooking classes, and explore the city as much as possible.