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Math In Rome 2010 Begins!

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Evelyn

As a student at UCSD, I knew that I wanted to study abroad.  As a structural engineering student, however, I knew it would be difficult because often times the required engineering courses are only taught once a year.  Also, I was a bit scared to go study to a different country for a quarter or even a year.

I first heard about the Math in Rome program through a friend.  Then through an e-mail I learned that applications were still being accepted.  Still unsure if I should apply, I talked to my friend.  He told me that it is an amazing experience and he encouraged me to apply.  Family and friends, who raved about their study abroad experiences, also contributed to my decision to apply.

Being a participant of the Math in Rome program was one of my best experiences at UCSD.  No other course has given me the opportunity to learn a concept then go to the actual site and see and live what is in the textbook. For example, we visited the Pantheon and Colosseum right after learning about domes and circular/elliptical structures. I very much enjoyed how Professor Pasquale would lecture on a concept and then the next day take us to the actual site and show us what we had learned the day before.

Math in Rome not only teaches you about Roman architecture but you also get to experience the culture, food, history and life.   It is amazing how knowledgeable Professor Pasquale is about Rome and its landmarks that he made our excursions and trips very enjoyable.  If Professor Pasquale was not able to give his personal tour of the place then he made sure to hire the best tour guide.  For example, when we visited the Vatican Museum he made sure we had the best tour guide.  I remember coming out and being overwhelmed and amazed by what I had seen and learned. In addition, when we went out on an excursion, he always made sure that we had a meal where we experienced the traditional food from that particular city we were visiting.

Math in Rome is a program that everyone should experience regardless of your major because there is so much you can experience even outside the classroom. The program promotes a good balance between schoolwork and leisure time.  I took advantage of my free days and went on trips with my friends.  I visited a different city every weekend.  I visited Milan and saw the Duomo di Milano. On a separate excursion I visited the ruins of Pompeii, dined in Sorrento, and enjoyed a swim on the island of Capri.  I also traveled to Venice, Florence and Pisa with my class and had a great time. 

Equally rewarding was the new friendships I made on my trip. I became very good friends with my apartment roommates.  We went on excursions to the beach and went salsa dancing.  To get a better feel for local life, we went to the local market and made dinner.  I had a great time and enjoyed every place I visited while studying abroad in Italy.  I was hesitant to study abroad because I had no idea what to expect but now I’m glad I went ahead and applied to the Math in Rome program.

Evelyn graduated from UCSD (Warren College) in 2009 with a degree in structural engineering. She participated in Math in Rome 09.