UF in Rome Predeparture Guide at St. John's University - Business Study Abroad Program - Warrington College of ...
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UF in Rome Business Study Abroad Program at St. John’s University Rome, Italy Predeparture Guide TERM: Spring 2018 Arrive: January 16 Depart: May 11
Welcome to the UF in Rome program! You are about to embark on a learning adventure of a lifetime! We hope that your time in Rome is successful. We know you may have many questions about what to expect. It is natural to be both elated and anxious, having mixed emotions about leaving home and embarking on your new life abroad. Through this experience, you will gain a better appreciation and understanding of both your own culture and that of your host country. The value of the self-awareness and insights you will gain will be immeasurable. Studying abroad is an exhilarating time, a time when you can sharpen your mind, discover new interests and be exposed to new ideas. The fascinating people you will meet will expand your knowledge of the world in wonderfully unexpected ways. When you first arrive, you will find a warm and receptive community that prizes cultural diversity, social responsibility, and individual excellence! Your primary purpose in attending St. John’s University (SJU) Rome campus is to succeed in your academic endeavors, but success requires more than hard work. The success of your experience depends in part upon your own efforts to acclimate yourself to living and studying in a foreign country. Your health, leisure and social life are also vitally important! This guide provides information to help prepare you for your study abroad experience: what you need to know before leaving home, what to expect when you arrive, and all the services, facilities and activities provided on campus. The staff at SJU is available to provide information on various aspects of student life in Rome. So read, enjoy and keep this guide for future reference. We wish you all the best in your new adventure. Lucy, Andrea, Joe, and Jason TABLE OF CONTENTS p. 3 Organizational Staff and Contacts p. 4 General Information p. 9 Program Information p. 10 Program additions - Excursions p. 12 Course Information p. 16 Local and Housing Information p. 19 Travel Information p. 25 IPSA tips p. 27 Websites p. 28 Maps p. 30 Appendix A - US Embassy Rome p. 31 Appendix B - Classroom Behavior p. 33 Appendix C - Locations accepting meal tickets This guide is also available online at: http://site.warrington.ufl.edu/rome 2
UF ORGANIZATIONAL STAFF Joe Rojo Lucy DiLeo Director for International Programs, Heavener Associate Director for International Programs, Heavener joe.rojo@warrington.ufl.edu lucy.dileo@warrington.ufl.edu Phone: 001.352.273.0151 Phone: 001.352.273.0151 Address: P.O. Box 117160, Gainesville, FL 32611 Address: P.O. Box 117160, Gainesville, FL 32611 SKYPE: uf.business.studyabroad SKYPE: lucydileo Jason Ward Andrea Kim Associate Director for International Programs, Heavener Assistant Director for International Programs, Heavener jason.ward@warrington.ufl.edu andrea.kim@warrington.ufl.edu Phone: 001.352.273.0151 Phone: 001.352.273.0151 Address: P.O. Box 117160, Gainesville, FL 32611 Address: P.O. Box 117160, Gainesville, FL 32611 SKYPE: uf.business.studyabroad Jill Ranaivoson June Bristol Senior Study Abroad Advisor, UF International Center Accountant, UF International Center jranaivoson@ufic.ufl.edu jbristol@ufic.ufl.edu Phone: 001.352.273.1508 Phone: 001.352.273.1504 Address: P.O. Box 113225, Gainesville, FL 32611 Address: P.O. Box 113225, Gainesville, FL 32611 ST. JOHN’S UNIVERSITY CONTACTS Elisa Bracalante Cristina Cavalieri Director of Rome Semester Programs Student Services Coordinator bracalee@stjohns.edu cavaliec@stjohns.edu Phone: 011-39-06-3938-4233 Phone: 011.39.06.3938.4299 Carla Wiegers Shawn Slon Resident Director Coordinator of Academics & Program Development cwiegers@stjohns.edu slons@stjohns.edu Phone: 011.39.06.3938.4299 Phone: 011.39.06.3938.4299 Andrea Notarnicola Matt Pucciarelli Assistant to Director for IT & Library Executive Director of Global Studies notarnia@stjohns.edu St. John’s University (SJU), Queens, NY Phone: 011.39.06.3938.4262 pucciarm@stjohns.edu Phone: 001.718.990.7614 Emergency NY phone: 1.888.844.7037 Sara DeFilippi Asst. Director of Partner Relations St. John’s University (SJU), Queens, NY defilips@stjohns.edu Phone: 001.718.990.6105 Mailing Address St. John’s University Rome Campus Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21 / A 00192 Rome Italy Main switchboard: 011.39.06.3938.4299 Emergency Mobile: 011.39.33.5617.5054 3
GENERAL INFORMATION Administrative Issues If you make any changes to your flights, be sure to provide your updated itinerary to the International Programs staff at the Heavener School of Business undergraduate office. Upon arrival, you must take a taxi from the airport to the St. John’s campus. Upon arriving in Rome, a taxi is the best way to get the St. John’s campus. The taxis have a standard rate of 50 € (Euros) in cash, so either exchange some Euros before you depart or withdraw money directly from cash machines (Bancomat) located in the airport. Be sure to update your permanent and local addresses with the UF Office of the Registrar prior to your departure. You can do this by logging on to Student Self Service at https://student.ufl.edu/ Since you will be living abroad and will most likely not be able to handle personal matters that arise in the USA, we suggest that you sign financial and medical power of attorney forms. These forms will give a designated representative, such as a family member, the authority to speak to university representatives on your behalf. You can pick up the necessary forms at the UFIC. Register your passport with the U.S. Department of State. The web address to register your passport and travel destination is: https://step.state.gov/step Entering Italy Every student must obtain a visa for Italy. Once you receive your visa, you will need to register your visa before your departure. Upon arrival in Italy, students must apply for the Permesso di Soggiorno, or “Permit of Stay.” To facilitate the process, St. John’s works with Eduservices Eduitalia, a company designed to simplify the Permesso application process. Please attend the mandatory SJU student orientation for more detailed and updated information. Below are important steps you must follow before leaving the USA: 1. Register with Eduitalia : http://secure.edu-services.org/SJU/Spring2018 2. Complete the online application (9 step process). You will need to refer to your passport and visa to complete this application. 3. After registration, an email confirmation will be sent from Eduitalia. Follow the steps outlined in the email. 4. Bring all the visa paperwork stamped by the Italian consulate with you to Rome. The following paperwork must be brought to Rome: a. Copy of your passport bio page b. Copy of your student visa c. Copy of your acceptance letter in Italian and English d. Copy of your proof of financial support e. Copy of CISI Health insurance verification letter Once you are in Italy: 1. Attend the on-site orientation conducted by St. John’s staff, bringing the above documentation. The St. John’s Rome staff will collect your passport to make a copy of the entry stamp and will explain the visa registration process in detail to obtain your Permesso. 2. Eduitalia staff will come to the Rome campus during orientation to distribute information and collect the paperwork required for the final step of the visa registration process. Eduitalia will schedule an appointment for you at the Italian Post Office to complete your Permit to Stay. 3. After the Italian Post Office appointment the SJU staff will distribute the following: a. The assicurata postale, which indicates your date of entry into the E.U. b. Confirmation of your fingerprint appointment to be done in person in Rome. c. Receipt for payment of the Permesso application. The fee is to be paid in cash and totals about € 172.86. You must bring this amount in cash to Orientation! 4
You will receive paperwork with the date and time for your fingerprinting appointment. It is MANDATORY for you to attend this appointment. If unable to complete the application with the St. John’s staff, you will have to attend the Permesso application appointment at the Questura to which you must bring the following documents in addition to the ones listed above: 1) Passport 2) Four (4) passport photos - there is a photo booth at the Lepanto metro. 3) Bank statement 4) Insurance card 5) Visa packet stamped by the consulate 6) All receipts for stamps purchased 7) Paper with confirmation of appointment time Arriving in Rome from the Airport Taxi: As you leave the arrivals terminal and walk out the main door, there will be a taxi stand with white taxi cabs lined up at the curb. It is useful to have the St. John’s Rome campus address written on a piece of paper to show the driver to avoid any confusion. The cost of a taxi is € 50. (Make sure the taxi is an official white taxi with a taxi cab light on the roof.) You may see a large billboard sign indicating taxi two rates. The lower rate will be the fare to the city. Don’t pay more than that and make sure you clarify the fee with the taxi driver before getting into the cab. They may try and negotiate a price with tip. Remember you do not need to tip anyone in Italy unless you want to! Train: There is a train which you can take as long as you do not have much luggage. The Leonardo Express runs every 30 minutes and travels between the airport and the Termini or main train station. The website:Trenitalia.com has the scheduling information. The cost is €14 one way. Shuttle Bus: There is a private shuttle bus service which picks up passengers outside the airport terminal and has a stop not far from the St. John’s campus. This stop is designated “Vatican” at Via Crescenzio 2. The website is www.sitbusshuttle.com. The cost is €6 one way (€ 5 online), €11 round trip (€ 10 online). When you arrive at the St. John’s campus, the resident assistant will give you the keys to your room and give you a packet with some basic information and a schedule for orientation. You will have the remainder of the afternoon free to settle in and rest. Procedure for Emergencies In the event of physical harm or an emergency, please contact the local police - 113. Then follow the steps below: 1. Call the emergency mobile phone for St. John’s: 011. 39.33.5617.5054. 2. After the situation has stabilized, call CISI Health Insurance at 001.203.399.5130 3. Notify your family. 4. Contact the University of Florida International Center: 001.352.273.1539 - state your name, program, location and the nature of the emergency. 5. During evenings and on weekends, call University of Florida Police Department at 001.352.392.1111, and then they will contact the on-call International Center representative. International calling procedures: - From USA, dial 011 + country code + telephone number - Country code for Italy = 39 - To dial to the USA from Europe: 001 + area code + telephone number 5
Emergency Telephone Numbers Police / Carabinieri 113 / 112 St. John’s University Emergency - Rome 011.39.33.5617.5054 Ambulance 118 Fire 115 UF International Center 001.352.273.1500 UF Police dept: weekends/evenings 001.352.392.1111 Pan-European / EU 112 The Pan-European emergency number 112 works in any EU country from any telephone and it's also the number to call for any emergency services if you're using a cellular/mobile tele- phone. Safety and Security As a general rule, always use good judgment and common sense! Don’t walk alone at night. Never leave your belongings unattended. Theft and unfortunate occurrences can happen regardless of your location if you don’t take reasonable precautions. Students have had purses, laptop and camera bags stolen even when they were just on the ground or next to them. Always guard your belongings at all times when in public and be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Rome is considered among the safest European cities in terms of crime and violence. Violent crime is extremely rare. Unfortunately, petty crime is a problem. PICK-POCKETS are active at railway stations, tourist areas, and on public transportation, especially on tourist bus routes such as the numbers 62, 64 and 46. If someone comes towards you with a newspaper or a cardboard sign asking for directions, move away quickly because they may be trying to pick your pocket. SAY “ NO ” FIRMLY! Should a group of noisy gypsy children surround you on the street, HOLD ON to your purse or wallet. This is the most popular method of robbing tourists. Common Precautions The following are some steps that should be taken to make your stay in Rome more pleasant: 1. Make copies of all your documents and credit cards and keep the copies separate from the originals. Leave a copy with your family in the USA. 2. Protect your valuables at all times. Men - place your wallet in your front pocket. Ladies - hold your purse across your body and toward the building side of the street, as purses can easily be snatched by people riding on motorcycles or scooters. 3. Carry only enough cash and documents needed for the day. 4. When traveling on overnight trains, always stay in a compartment with other people. Make sure to use the night lock located at the bottom of your compartment door and keep all money, documents and valuables close to your person. 5. Always be alert and conscious of your surroundings. 6
Finances Program fees are due 30 days prior to the start of the program. If you have any questions concerning fee payment or Financial Aid, Prepaid tuition or scholarships, please contact June Bristol in the UFIC at 352-273-1504 or at jbristol@ufic.ufl.edu. Helpful Financial Tips Be sure to inform your bank and/or credit card company that you will be leaving the country. Often, they will freeze your account if you do not notify them in advance to protect your account against theft. Check the Dollar-Euro exchange rate regularly and plan your budget accordingly. (www.oanda.com/convert/classic) ATM machines will offer the most advantageous exchange rates. Make sure your ATM card is part of the Visa/PLUS or MasterCard/Cirrus network and includes a chip. To ensure ease of use, make a note of the PIN number for each of your credit cards. Convert your PIN to four numbers, as most ATMs only accept four digits. In Rome, most banks are open from 8:30am–3pm and 2:45pm–3:45pm, Monday-Friday. It is virtually impossible to cash personal checks drawn on USA banks in Italy. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted at shops and restaurants in Rome. Check if your credit cards charge international fees. Make a list of all the credit and ATM cards you take, along with the telephone numbers to call in the event of a loss. Record the long distance telephone number as 800 numbers do not work when calling from abroad. Keep one list in a safe place separate from your wallet and another list at home with your family. As a guide, it is recommended that students budget $800-1000 per month for personal expenses. Rome is expensive, as are most large European cities. Students should arrange for additional funds if they plan to travel outside of Rome. INSURANCE Our partner, St. John’s University, has a contract with CISI - Cultural Insurance Services International to provide health insurance coverage for all students for the length of the program. All students are enrolled in the CISI plan coverage. However, after enrollment, students will need to visit the St. John’s-CISI website at www.culturalinsurance.com/stj/ to register and for further information. In some cases CISI coverage will not require students in need of medical care to pay out of pocket. St. John’s on-site Rome staff will communicate directly with CISI to coordinate services and file claims. 1. Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation 2. Accident and sickness medical coverage up to $250,000 3. Facilitation of hospital payment 4. Emergency Medical Reunion 5. Baggage and personal effects coverage 6. Trip Quarantine benefits 7. Website: http://www.culturalinsurance.com/ To contact the CISI - Cultural Insurance Services, call 800-303-8120 or call 001.203.399.5130 outside the USA. Email: cisiwebadmin@culturalinsurance.com Complete details about the CISI Health Insurance are available on the St. John’s website: http:// www.stjohns.edu/global/study-abroad/health-safety and www.culturalinsurance.com/stj 7
Information for Parents Leave the following information with your parents: Contact names, the address and phone numbers of St. John’s Rome. Names, addresses and telephone numbers of all important UF contacts for financial aid, registration, etc. Your return dates with flight information and times. They will want to know when they can expect to have you back home! More information is available on the St. John’s website: www.stjohns.edu/global/study-abroad/ programs/semester/discover-italy-rome Business Study Abroad Programs - Facebook Group Join the program Facebook group: UF in Rome - Business with St. John’s University. All program participants are invited to the group and may post and communicate with current and past participants. Student ID Cards The St. John’s student ID card must be shown in order to gain entrance to the St. John’s Residence building. Make sure to carry it with you so you can get back in the building. Being a student entitles you to many discounts in Rome, Italy, and Europe. Ask for the student tariff or discount at museums, cinemas, etc. 8
PROGRAM INFORMATION PROPOSED: UF – SJU Rome – Spring 2018 Orientation (Schedule will be finalized upon arrival.) Date Approx Time Topic Presenter Tues. January 16 Evening Arrival Dinner Rome staff January 17-20 TBA Residential Life Meeting Resident Director TBA Academic Orientation Director TBA Neighborhood Tour Rome staff TBA Tour of Historical Center Student Affairs Team Coordinator for Student TBA Student Life Meeting Life Calendar of Events: (Tentative - subject to change) January 8 – UF courses begin. Start watching business course lectures! January 16 – Arrival in Rome (Residence is open) January 17-20 – Mandatory Orientations January 22 – SJU courses begin February 2 – Last day to Add/Drop St. John’s classes March 9-11 – Semester weekend excursion to Tuscany (tentative) March 16 – Class (make-up for Easter Monday) March 23-April 2 – SJU Easter spring break April 3 – Classes resume April 20 – Class (make-up for Liberation Day April 25 – Holiday – Liberation Day April 25 – UF classes end April 27 – Class (make-up for Labor day) April 27-May 1 – Semester five-day trip to Sicily (tentative) April 30-May 4 – UF Final Exams May 1 – Holiday – Labor Day May 10 – SJU semester classes end May 11 – Friday – End of program-must vacate residence by 8 A.M. It is strongly recommended not to organize trips, nor book or buy airfare, train tickets, etc., without first consulting the academic calendar and exam dates of all courses, both UF and St. John’s. It is recommended that you not travel any weekend before an exam. 9
Program Additions for UF students Each student will get €45 in meal tickets every week to use at restaurants and grocery stores all over Rome. For an idea of where these tickets can be used, a short list can be found at this website: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/2f00e1_98568a926ace459195c0aaa1c2581403.pdf and in the Appendix C of this guide. Weekend trip to Tuscany and 5-day trip to Sicily. More info about these excursions can be found at: http://www.stjohns.edu/global/study-abroad/programs/semester/discover-italy-rome-excursions Weekend Excursion: Tuscany – Spring Semester Long considered one of Italy’s most scenic areas, Tuscany is also full of rich historical significance from the Etruscans to the Renaissance and beyond. You’ll be guided by a member of our Rome campus faculty, who will explain the long and fascinating history of the regions people, politics, art and structures from an expert’s point of view, drawing connections and showing contrasts between the cultures of Tuscany, Rome and other major Italian and European cities. 5 Day Excursion: Sicily Students will be traveling to the culturally and naturally stunning Regione Siciliana (Region of Sicily). Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and sits just off the Italian mainland –right at the tip of “the boot.” Various cultural elements of the Greek and Roman empires are still present throughout the region, each serving as a perfect link between the region’s profound history and modern day charm. Part of that Sicilian charm is a result of the city’s geographic location. The serenity of the crystal clear-watered beaches and the ominous grandeur of Mount Etna are just two staples of Sicilian geography that serve as a standard bearer of the region’s distinct identity. The Sicilian identity is further fueled by the region’s food. Perfectly utilizing its coastline, natives’ diets are rich in Mediterranean seafood and spices, as well as sweets like cannoli, granite (ice mixed with fresh fruit and juices), cassata (a delicious sweet cake), and marzipan. The extensive nature of Sicilian culture will flawlessly co-exist with your studies, as it will add context to the Roman-based knowledge you acquire from classes like Italian Sketchbook, Survey of Art and Architecture in Italy, and Appreciation of Italian Food, Wine, and Culture, bringing your Italian studies full circle, and ensuring that you truly do Discover Italy. Probable visits for the spring semester include: Palermo, Monreale, and the Salt flats of Trapani What do I have to do to be eligible for these amazing program additions? St. John’s would like all spring 2018 UF students to write a reflective essay and submit photos of their time abroad. We’ll use this essay and photos in our marketing materials to let other students know 10
what a great time you had abroad! By accepting a spot on the program, you are agreeing to submit the following: A reflective essay about your time abroad of 500-1000 words. Students can choose from one of the following topics: Present a place that has become meaningful to you abroad. Reveal a surprising interaction that you had with a local person. Dig into a time when you felt “foreign,” or a time when you felt like a “local,” or both. Compare and contrast a time/place/experience that made you think of home and explore the similarities and differences, and why they might exist. If your study abroad experience involved volunteering, talk about this work in a compelling way. Why did your engagement make (or not make) a difference? To whom did it make a difference? Did you learn about ways in which others around the world are coping with and/or finding solutions to issues surrounding social inequity? How has this awareness informed you and your role as a global citizen? How has your learning overseas translated into your lifestyle at home? Essays will be posted on the St. John’s Global Studies Tumblr page and other SJU and UF website locations. 5-10 photos of your time abroad We are looking for a wide-range of photos. Anything from beautiful scenery to photos of students in class and participating in SJU-led activities. Photos can be taken in your host city or anywhere your weekend travels take you. We cannot accept any pictures of students doing drugs or drinking alcohol Pictures will be posted on Instagram and other SJU and UF website locations. Both the essay and the photos must be submitted within three weeks after you return from your semester abroad (no later than June 1, 2018). 11
COURSE INFORMATION UF Exam Dates: Exam times and locations are posted on the website: http://site.warrington.ufl.edu/rome BUL 4310 ENT 3003 GEB 3373 MAN 3025 MAR 3023 Tues. Feb 27 No proctored exams Wed. Feb 28 Tues. Feb 6 Wed. Feb 14 Thurs. Apr 5 Wed. Apr 11 Tues. Mar 20 Thurs. Mar 22 Thurs. May 3 Thurs. Apr 19 Mon. Apr 23 Check the UF in Rome program website shown above for the final schedule for exams with times and room locations. It is imperative that you arrange your internship and travel schedules around the above times. Room assignments for testing may change so check the website before each exam. The exam dates above will differ from the dates posted in the course syllabus. No make-up exams will be given! UF Course Materials: Buy all course materials before leaving the USA. Students may contact students currently studying abroad about purchasing books through the Facebook group. All course textbooks will be available for pickup at the UF Bookstore before the beginning of the semester. If you are away from Gainesville, you can order your books online and have them shipped to you. Noteshells are available on course websites or you may purchase by calling Target Copy at 352-376-3826. (N.B. Verify on the course website any changes to the books prior to your departure.) BUL4310 – Prof. Robert W. Emerson Business Law: by Robert Emerson, 6th edition – 2015, Barron’s Publishing, ISBN: 9781438005119 (brown cover) Law, Society And Business: by Robert Emerson, 2018 edition, Target Copy ENT3003 – Dr. Christopher Pryor No textbooks GEB3373 – Dr. Amanda J. Phalin CUSTOMIZED E-TEXTBOOK by Ricky W. Griffin and Michael W. Pustay, 8th Edition, 2012 Pearson Publishing Students are required to purchase access to an online simulation and a customized e-textbook for this course. The first day of class, students will be provided with instructions for accessing these materials via Canvas at a reduced cost of approximately $130.00. For students who would like a hard copy of the textbook in addition to the e-text, a print upgrade will be available at the UF Bookstore. **DO NOT PURCHASE ANY ADDITIONAL BOOKS OR ACCESS CODES FOR THIS COURSE.** MAN3025 – Dr. Lindy Archameau Management: A Practical Introduction by Kinicki & Williams, 8th edition McGraw-Hill, ISBN: 9781259732652 Students will have two options to gain access to required online materials and a digital textbook (ISBN: 9781259310492) for this course. Both options will offer access to the same materials. 1. Students will have the opportunity to “opt-in” to online access directly through Canvas at the start of classes at a reduced price of $120.00. 2. Students may also purchase a printed access code through the UF Bookstore. The printed version of the text available in the UF Bookstore available is at a discounted price for students who would like a printed resource in addition to their online materials. **Do not purchase any additional books or access codes for this course** MAR3023 – Dr. Richard Lutz Marketing, by Kerin and Hartley, 13th edition, ISBN: 9781259962004 e-book Students will be required to use McGraw-Hill’s Connect platform which comes with an electronic copy of the text. This will be able for purchase through the course website. 12
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure to purchase your books for the UF Electronic Platform courses before leaving the USA. Due to customs and mail difficulties, you cannot expect to receive books shipped to Italy in a timely manner. UF Business Courses – Lecture Download Procedures The UF business online courses consist of videotaped lectures given by UF professors during the current semester. The lectures are available through the video lecture website to download your course lectures when at the residence. You may stream lectures through the video lecture website while at your residence but if this causes network problems or slowdowns, you may want to download the lecture files to view the lectures. Downloading lectures Access the video lectures via the WCBA MyHeavener website: http://warrington.ufl.edu/ undergraduate/myheavener/videolectures.asp using one of the following options. You may also use the normal lecture / video download link on the E-Learning Canvas system course website, if internet connectivity permits. Mediasite - This is the best solution for watching classes on your internet-connected computer. Mediasite supports Mac/PC desktop streaming and downloads connected via WiFi. This method works best with a super-fast high speed internet connection. iTunes - If you have a mobile device or have limited access to a WiFi connection from your computer, you’ll probably want to download the lectures to your device for offline viewing. This is your best option for downloading lectures to view later. Check your current edition of iTunes to see if it is compatible and then, subscribe to the lectures via www.apple.com/itunes RSS Feed for Windows - This service is provided as an alternative subscription method to using iTunes. RSS syndication is only supported on the Windows PC. Please use Firefox or Internet Explorer to access RSS feeds as RSS is not currently supported by Google Chrome. ** Choose “ View Requirements or Tutorial ” listed under each the format to view to help use in order to learn about how to subscribe and access the video lectures under “Help Me Choose” on the MyHeavener website. E-Learning & Canvas If you are registered for a business course, the E-Learning website contains all the course information for the online courses: syllabus, assignments, grading, etc. To access visit the Academic Technology website at https://lss.at.ufl.edu, choose Canvas. Log-on to the system entry. Once logged on, you simply click on the course link to view all resources for the course. Various support services are available at the Academic Technology site. Virtual Private Network UF’s GatorLink VPN Service (Virtual Private Network) is a set of technologies which allow users to build secure “virtual” paths between hosts on insecure networks. By using the Gatorlink VPN client, you may access resources on the UF network that are not typically available over an Internet path. Through the VPN you gain access to external resources from off campus (such as library databases) that are based on UF source addresses and also resources and sites often restricted abroad (YouTube, Pandora, etc.) To download VPN, follow the instructions at: https://connect.ufl.edu/it/wiki/pages/glvpn.aspx 13
Courses at St. John’s University — Rome campus Course Website — MySJU For the St. John’s University courses, you must connect to their course management / Blackboard site: MySJU. The website is located: www.stjohns.edu/mysju You must log in to MySJU with the username and password information sent to your UFL email. You are encouraged to change your password when you log on the first time. You will need to check your St. John’s email address regularly as your St. John’s professors will only communicate with you through this email. St. John’s Language Requirement Effective this semester, there is a new language requirement at the St. John’s Rome campus. All students registered for language classes levels: 1010, 1020, 2030, and 2040 are required to participate in weekly 30-minute practice and conversation sessions in small groups, under the guidance of a tutor. Students enrolled in 1000 level courses are required to participate in weekly one-hour sessions. St. John’s Course Materials The booklist for the St. John’s Rome courses is listed below. Our suggestion is to purchase the books before leaving the USA if you can as they may be not be available in Rome. Verify this list by checking MySJU before purchasing books. Current Terrorist Movements (GOV 3320) The Routledge Handbook of Critical Terrorism Studies, edited by Richard Jackson, Routledge, 2016 Italian Sketchbook (ART 1250A) Course reader provided. 65 € in entrance fees and art supplies and didactic materials International Business (IB 3341) Hill, International Business: Competing in the Global Marketplace, McGraw0Hill Irwin Rivoli, The Travels of a T-Shirt in the Global Economy, Wiley, latest edition 10 € for activities Survey of Art and Architecture in Italy (ART 1790A) Course reader provided. 25 € ifor entrance fees Italian – All courses /levels (1010/1020/2030) Lazzarino, Graziena and Dini-Peccianti, Prego. (Latest edition) 15 € for activities * Note: workbook not required 14
Grading Guidelines for St. John’s Courses The Warrington College of Business Administration uses three GPA’s to certify graduation: The UF GPA – this consists of all the classes taken at the University of Florida, or an exchange program (SJU is not an exchange) The core GPA – this consists of all business core classes: MAN3025; MAR3023; FIN3403; MAN4504; QMB3250; BUL4310; and ECP3703 or GEB3373. The major GPA – this consists of all classes taken to fulfill a major, like finance, economics, or management, or an area of specialization. Grades earned in the SJU courses will post to the UF transcript, but will not be calculated into the UF GPA. Grades appear on the UF transcript as assigned by SJU. The grades will not be converted to an S/U grade. For example, if a student earns a B, UF will post that grade even though it is not calculated in the UF GPA. EXCEPTIONS: Grades earned in classes at St. John’s used to fulfill a specific degree (major / minor) requirement will affect that particular GPA. An example is Italian students taking Italian III will have that grade calculated into the major/minor GPA. 15
LOCAL / HOUSING INFORMATION Student Services The staff at St. John’s University (SJU) welcome your questions and will do their best to assist you: Elisa Bracalente: Director of St. John’s program Switchboard: 011.39.06.3938.4299 Email: bracalee@stjohns.edu St. John’s Rome Address and Telephone Number St. John’s University Undergraduate Campus Tel: 011.39.06.3938.4299 Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21 / A Fax: 011.39.06.3938.4200 00192, Rome Italy Web: http://www.stjohns.edu/campuses/rome-campus Carla Wiegers - Resident Director Residence Hall: 011-39-06-3938-4273 Email: cwiegers@stjohns.edu ** Emergency contact mobile phone: 011.39.33.5617.5054 ** Getting to the St. John’s Rome Campus St. John’s University Rome undergraduate campus is located at Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21 / A. The St. John’s building is located minutes from the Lepanto metro stop and within walking distance of some of Rome's greatest architecture and tourist treasures. It’s just a 15 minute walk to St. Peter's Square and a 20-25 minute walk to Castel San Angelo. The undergraduate campus is in a bustling neighborhood in the heart of Rome. There are many cafes, restaurants, ice cream shops, movie theaters, and stores all around the campus. Metro: When you exit from Lepanto metro, turn left and walk two blocks towards Piazza Cavour. You should be on Via Lepanto and this street becomes Marcantonio Colonna and the school is on the corner of Via Marcantonio Colonna and Via Pompeo Magno (about 2 blocks). Cost: €1.5 Bus: Take bus 913 (direction Augusto Imperatore). Get off at Via Marcantonio Colonna. Walk back to Via Pompeo Magno and the school is on the corner of Via Marcantonio Colonna and Via Pompeo Magno. Cost: €6 Metro and Buses The city of Rome has a comprehensive transportation system comprised of two subway lines, buses and a tram service making it very convenient to explore Rome. Tickets for the subway, the Metropolitana, and bus cost 1.50 €. The tickets or B.I.T. (Biglietto Integrato a Tempo) are valid for one ride on the metro or for 100 minutes on the bus. You can buy a supply of individual tickets at most tabacchi, tobacco stores, and at information booths in the metro. A monthly pass costs around 35 €. Always, remember to PUNCH your ticket on the bus, metro and train station. Housing Information St. John’s University Rome Campus Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21/ A 00192 Rome Italy 011.39.06.3938.4299 The dormitory-style residence is located on the 3rd and 4th floors of the St. John’s University campus which is within walking distance to the historical center and only a few blocks from the underground metro. Shared dormitory style rooms with two or three beds are available. 16
The facilities offer students the wonderful opportunity to experience Rome with some of the comforts of home. Facilities include: A fully wired computer lab with printers for student use Single, double rooms or triple rooms High-speed wireless internet Air-conditioned rooms Full time bilingual residence life staff, including residence directors and assistants 24-hr security along with key card entry to the building Washers & dryers The hallway is a common area shared by all the residents, but all rooms are unisex. Separate male and female bathrooms with private stalls and showers are located in the hallway. Rooms are furnished with the following items: twin beds, one desk per student, bookshelves and separate wardrobes. Bedding, linens and one towel are supplied. However, each student will be responsible for laundering their linens during the course of the term. There is a refrigerator and microwave available for use on each floor with one kitchen on the third floor and two kitchens on the fourth floor. Individually controlled air conditioning and heating units are provided in each of the rooms. Wireless internet is available throughout all locations of the building. Please make sure that your laptop and other valuables are adequately insured for loss, theft and damage. SJU does not accept liability for the loss or damage of property while on campus or in the dormitory. No guests are allowed to stay in student rooms. If you have someone visiting you, they must leave the dormitory by 11 pm. There are hotels located nearby where relatives and friends can stay. Library and Information Resources The St. John’s Rome campus features on-site collections and a wide variety of online services. Commonly used periodicals and other texts are available. In addition, the campus subscribes to a number of external databases and on-line services available to students. The SJU Rome campus has a state-of-the-art computer lab and wireless connectivity throughout the campus giving students 24-hour access to online databases, library resources, e-mail and Internet services. Students can use Internet services without charge or time limit. There is also a wireless printer available to all students. Sports & Leisure At the St. John’s Rome orientation, information about local gyms and exercise classes will be given to students. Email, Telephones and Electricity Email You are expected to check your UFL.edu email account while in Rome. The SJU Rome campus has state-of-the-art wireless connectivity throughout the campus giving students 24-hour access to online databases, library resources, e-mail and Internet services. Students can use Internet services without charge or time limit. In addition, you will be responsible for any emails sent through to your MySJU email address regarding course information. 17
Telephones Having a cell phone that works internationally is a great way to communicate with family and friends in the program and a necessity in emergency situations. It is strongly recommended for all program participants. The good news is that with the right information, getting an international cell phone can be a relatively quick, painless and (if you plan well) inexpensive process. In the UK and Europe, “cell” phones are called “mobile” phones. Here are some options: 1. Travel Cell Phone Providers Some companies specialize in providing cell phones to international travelers. Many of these companies will offer you a cell phone and/or SIM cards for use abroad, a local phone number in the countries you will be traveling in, and rates that are competitive with local providers. In the past, we have used PicCell Wireless. You receive the SIM card and cell phone before leaving the USA so you have a phone which works upon arrival. 2. Local Pre-Paid Cell / Mobile Phones It is generally inexpensive and easy to find a pre-paid phone in each location that you will be studying in. You will have the comfort of knowing that you will not be shocked by a large phone bill at the end of the semester. Purchase as many minutes, data, text messages, etc., as you think you will need at the beginning and then re-fill as necessary. Keep in mind, though, that you will not be able to get your money back for pre-paid minutes not used. One drawback is that you will not have a cell phone upon your arrival abroad. Inexpensive phones are available at any wireless store where you are studying abroad. The SIM card can be used in the unlocked phone. We recommend purchasing a cell phone just to be on the safe side as having a local cell phone can be invaluable in the case of an emergency. Just be sure to know the rates for your phone and limit your usage according to your budget. 3. Using Your Current Cell Phone Depending on the type of cell phone and carrier you have, it may be possible to use your U.S. cell phone overseas. Options include setting up an international plan with your U.S. based carrier. As this option can be costly, make sure you are aware of all fees and rates included. You may want to unlock your phone before leaving the USA and purchase a local SIM card which will work in your current phone. Electricity The voltage in Italy and Europe is 220/240. Any electrical items you bring from home will need a converter (if the voltage is different) and an adapter to fit into electrical sockets. We recommend that you purchase converters and adapters before you leave and then electrical products such as hairdryers, radios, etc., in Italy. Most electronics automatically convert the voltage in which case you would only need an adapter and those are available for one euro at most electronic stores in Italy. Below are pictures of a continental or Europe adapter and transformer and sketch of their use. The adapter with the round prongs is used in most countries in mainland Europe. The voltage converter or transformers changes the European 220/240 volts to 110 needed for American appliances. If you travel to London and the UK, be aware that the adapters for their electrical plugs differ from the European plug, but they do operate on the same 220/240 volts system. European Plug Adapters - 18
TRAVEL INFORMATION Packing Lists (suggested) List for women: List for men: 3 pair jeans 3 pair jeans 2 pairs khaki or black slacks 2 pairs khaki or black slacks 2-3 skirts 1 suit for interview – internship 3 dresses Belt and tie(s) 1 professional interview outfit - internship 4 long sleeved button-down shirts 5-8 long and short sleeved tops 3-4 polo shirts Cardigan / sweater 4 t ’shirts – no American logos Workout wear and shoes 5 undershirts 2 pair sneakers 5 pairs running shorts 1 pr. wedges, ballet flat shoes, or sandals Athletic wear and shoes 1 pair boots – combat or comfortable (spray Sweatpants with waterproofing) Nice pair shoes and dress socks Scarves / inexpensive jewelry Both: Underwear & socks (enough for 14 days) Light-weight or rain jacket Warm coat for winter Swim-suit & flip-flops Pajamas Sunglasses Hat (not ball cap) IPSA suggestions on what else to bring Bring spiral notebooks Snacks – Easy Mac / Crystal Light / Granola Bring clothes to layer for cooler temperatures bars / Peanut Butter One outfit for every weather scenario Cards, easy games “Old” beach towel & washcloth Pillowcase Bathrobe/slippers for dorm First Aid kit / Prescription medicines and original Inexpensive wristwatch prescription(s) Padlock & little locks Sufficient quantities: Water bottle Contacts + solution Headphones, ear buds Advil, Tylenol, Band-Aids, Neck pillow, ear plugs, eye mask Pepto, Sudafed Clothesline with clothespins or clips Allergy meds Electric plug adapters, converters & USB phone chargers, HDMI cable, Ethernet cable 19
Also remember to pack Coat, hat, gloves, scarf and boots for cooler temperatures Books for the UF electronic platform business courses Comfortable walking shoes and socks Towel and washcloths - bring one set and buy others upon arrival (bed linens will be provided). Optical spares – If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you should bring spares. Other personal items – which you might find useful to bring and pack in your luggage: a small sewing kit an umbrella In Your Carry-on Bag List of emergency phone numbers Electrical converters and adapters Medical prescriptions One change of clothes Good book and magazines Any glasses or contacts Camera Laptop computer If you take prescription medication, bring a large enough supply with you to last the duration of your stay and also bring a copy of your prescription. Take any preferred non-prescription medications with you as obtaining American name-brand drugs may be difficult while in Italy. Try to pack as lightly as possible. Remember that you will have to carry whatever you bring. Don’t bring valuable or non-replaceable items with you. Check with your airline to confirm what the weight and/or size limitations are for your luggage and for carry-on baggage and stay within those guidelines! Additional Packing Tips / Ideas Clothing tips: Consider physical and social climate People in other countries dress more formally than in the USA Dark colors do not show dirt as readily Include durable, drip-dry, no-iron clothes Take items that have multiple uses Zip-lock bags in all sizes Travel size bottles Tote or canvas bags for the grocery store Feminine toiletries, i.e., tampons (plastic applicators), razors, nail polish remover... Shout® Wipes & Color Catcher® sheets and dryer sheets Hangers 20
Travel Tips Buy a Rome and Europe specific travel guide before you go. Make sure you actually read it! It will really save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. Train travel is often cheaper than traveling by air. The Italian rail system is very comprehensive with a system of high speed trains between most major Italian cities and slower trains which service many towns offering more frequent stops. One benefit of the Italian railways is that you can create an online account and purchase tickets in advance. Check out www.trenitalia.com for more info. Budget airlines like www.Easyjet.com, www.Vueling.com/es and www.Ryanair.com are also good ways to travel, but you often fly from much smaller airports that are not in the city center. Former students recommend the website: www.skyscanner.com as a valuable airline planning tool. When traveling by plane to Europe, be sure to take into account the cost to ride the train to and from the airports as the airports are often far from the center of the city. These costs can add 50-75 € to the overall cost of transportation for the trip. When leaving Rome traveling by air, it’s better to depart during the afternoon or evening as the morning flights often leave very early and there may be no transportation to the airport leaving the option of going the night before and sleeping in the airport. Discount airlines can charge very steep prices for checked luggage. Carry-on luggage is recommended. The carry-on size restrictions are for EasyJet: 19 x 15.7 x 7.8, for RyanAir: 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8, and for Vueling: 19 x 15.7 x 7.8. The airlines have a weight limit of 10 kilos. Another cheap mode of transportation is EuroLines (www.eurolines.com), IDBus or MegaBus. These bus lines travel to major cities. Travel time is really long but is probably the cheapest if you book far enough in advance plus the bus takes you right into the center of the city. Try using www.hostels.com, www.hostelworld.com or a general Google search for hostels and budget hotels. The rating systems are pretty accurate, so really pay attention to them. It is not recommended to stay in anything lower than a 75% rating. Buy a sleep sack (available through Magellans.com) and travel shammy towel, because some hostels require you to rent sheets and towels at expensive prices. It would also be good to purchase a large travel back pack. It’s good to carry cash with you when you travel because many of the hostels do not take credit cards. Also, many of the little places along the street for eating and purchasing things only accept cash. You may want to have some type of money belt with you when traveling. In all big cities, pickpockets can be a problem. Be especially careful on the subways, buses, and airports. This is only a warning, but be aware that there maybe groups of children and women that try to distract and pickpocket. When you see someone on the street or subways begging for money, just continue walking or just firmly tell them no and they will leave you alone. Again, make a list of all the credit and ATM cards you take with you, along with the telephone numbers to call in the event of a loss. Record the long distance telephone number as 800 numbers do not work when calling from abroad. Keep one list in a safe place separate from your wallet and another list at home with your family. ONE LAST TIP from a student who recently had her purse stolen, keep your purse/ backpack on your person at all times. DO NOT SET ANYTHING DOWN ON THE FLOOR. Also, it’s a good idea to make copies of all your credit cards, ID cards, Driver’s License to leave in your room for your roommate. 21
Useful Apps for smartphone Planning & Prep TripIt is a free app that keeps track of all your flight info in one place and offline. Just forward your confirmation email and all the data is populated within seconds to your account. Skyscanner is a global search engine that enables people to find comparisons for flights. Kayak is an impressively useful flight search engine. JetLag helps to reduce the symptoms of jet lag in an easy and effective way. All you have to do is to fill in your departure and arrival information, Jet Lag App will do the rest! In a blink of an eye you will receive your jet lag reducing advice.” Weather Channel App lets you stay up on the forecast hourly, daily and/or weekly for your next destination. Add up to 10 cities. Accommodation HostelWorld works in a pinch to land last minute budget accommodation. Try to ensure your hostel has the following: Lockers, A/C or Heating, Linen provided, walking distance to method of public transportation. Also ensure your hostel is rated roughly 80% or better. Airbnb & HOMEAWAY helps you find and make private apartment reservations. Great for weekend getaways when traveling with multiple people. Money Matters XE lets you keep track of fluctuating conversion rates throughout your trip so you know exactly how much that fancy dinner equated to in US dollars. Mint is a great way to budget while abroad, and it also lets you keep track of your balances. Uber It’s not hard to strongly recommend Uber (and other local taxi apps) over waving down taxis. Forget all about the stress of making sure the meter is set correctly, if you have the right bills on hand, being ripped off by the classic “you handed me a 5, not a 20” scam. Just link up your bank account to the app and the rest is easy. Note: Not available in some locations/countries. Communication WhatsApp, Viber, iMessage, Hangouts, WeChat, Skype are all messaging and calling apps which use data or wifi in order to keep in touch not only with friends and family back home, but also all of your new international friends! Google Translate can make or break your ability to travel through a country in which you do not speak the language. With the ability to download the dictionary per language, you also ensure you have access to the translate ability when away from data or WiFi. TravelSafe is a potentially life-saving database of emergency service numbers for just about every country. 22
Miscellaneous Google Maps is one of the best options to explore new places. Traffic updates, public transit, city tours with 360-degree street views, plus a voice-guided, turn-by-turn GPS navigation are merely some of the features this mobile app offers so you can navigate like a pro. Individual city maps can be downloaded to your device for offline use. Weekend Student Adventures (WSA Europe) has designed an app that provides a ton of “on-the-go” tips and tricks for more than a dozen of our favorite cities. Download city chapters for free and opt into newly updated sights and favorite venues. Rick Steves’ Europe Audio Guides are extremely well-done, free and informative. Search and download all the subjects on your destinations before you leave on your trip and listen to them on the plane ride in to get well prepped. TripAdvisor is extremely useful for locating nearby restaurants and attractions and will use your current position and GPS to guide you to your destination. With tips, rankings, and reviews it will ensure that you’re well-traveled and well fed, no matter the city. Like a Local will let you avoid the tourist traps and tell you where the real hotspots in town are located. As you can probably guess, the app lets real locals post reviews and insights about their favorite places in town for you to see. They’re picky about the locals they use, so you won’t be getting reviews from someone who’s only lived there a week. SmartTraveler is an essential tool for travel into less stable regions. Sort of like an abridged version of the CIA's World Fact Book, it has a dossier on every country around the globe, as well as up-to-the-minute travel warnings, be they political uprisings or natural disasters. Especially handy is the inclusion of STEP, which lets travelers e- register with their local U.S. embassy or consulate when abroad for an added layer of safety, and to receive alerts by email. HistoryPin is a location-aware augmented reality app that is chock full of nifty elements. Chief among them is the ability to point your phone's camera at historic buildings (in tons of cities across the globe) and see a selection of vintage images nearby that can be layered over the modern building or space in front of you. There’s also an option to toggle back and forth and in many cases pick photos from different years. These photos come from oodles of sources, including other users, and are accessible as collections, as walking tours, or simply via a map showing available photos nearby. LoungeBuddy Even within the elite jet set there are various classes of traveler, and different airport lounges to match. Whether you’re after a quick pre-flight shower or hungering for a smorgasbord of exotic fruit, this neat app will suggest a lounge, complete with user reviews – just punch in your airport and level of access and the rest is taken care of. 23
Checking for Bed Bugs With planning your trips and studying for your classes, the last thing you may think about is keeping your bed free of bed bugs. However, with recent news about outbreaks of bed bugs, being prepared can help you avoid suffering from the torture of a bed bug infestation. Here are some things you can do to avoid bed bugs while traveling. 1. When you enter a hotel room or hostel, do not immediately unpack or put your bags on the bed. Take your luggage to a clean bathtub or a rack that will keep it off the floor until you have inspected the room. 2. Grab a flashlight (or use the flashlight app on your phone) to inspect the bed. 3. Pull the blanket and linens off the bed. Start with the corners, where bed bugs like to hide and look for bugs or dark brown blood spots. Closely examine the folds and seams in the corner of the mattress for signs of bed bugs. 4. Remove the bed cover and check the surface of the bed sheets. Again, you will be looking for small brown spots and dried blood or bugs themselves. Also check any upholstered furniture for signs of bed bugs. The bugs like to hide in dark places, so check the seams and folds of the furniture. 5. Look behind the headboard and in any grooves on the headboard or nightstand. Shine the flashlight in the dark areas as you look for bugs. 6. If you do find bed bugs, leave the room immediately, and contact the hotel management. Ask to be placed in another room or go to another hotel. If nothing comes up in your search, you will have a good night’s sleep and will not take any creatures back home. For more information, check out these videos: UF/IFAS - What are bed bugs? - http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/bed_bugs/index.shtml BBC video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObVqT9daRuc Below are photos of the bugs rapid growth, on a hand and on a sheet: 24
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WEBSITES UF in Rome program website: http://site.warrington.ufl.edu/rome St. John’s University: http://www.stjohns.edu/global/study-abroad/programs/ semester/discover-italy-rome St. John’s Global Studies Student Handbook: www.stjohns.edu/global/study-abroad/ students/student-guide SJU Rome - Student Life website: http://www.sjurome.com/ SJU Traveling Abroad: www.stjohns.edu/global/study-abroad/students/student-guide/ traveling-abroad UFIC - UF Int’l Center: www.ufic.ufl.edu/sas CISI Insurance: www.culturalinsurance.com/stj/ and www.culturalinsurance.com U.S. State Department - Smart Traveler: https://step.state.gov/step Rome Street Map: www.rome.info/map Rome Metro and Bus system: www.atac.roma.it/ Route calculation is at the top Additional Websites Rome Newspaper: Corriere della Sera - www.corriere.it/english/ This newspaper contains information on the various socio-cultural events taking place in Rome. US Embassy in Italy: http://it.usembassy.gov About Rome: http://www.rome.info : this site contains useful information for a visitor to Rome www.gotoroma.com : a hotel and information guide to Rome. www.turismoroma.it : Rome tourism site www.timeout.com/Rome : a useful website with information on various socio-cultural events taking place in Rome About Travel: www.statravel.com : website of a popular student travel agency www.edreams.net : website for Europeans flights and hotels www.skyscanner.com : another website for budget air travel www.etn.nl/lcosteur.htm : listings of individual discount airline sites www.raileurope.com : website for rail travel through Europe www.fsitaliane.it : Trenitalia homepage - Italian national railroad www.ricksteves.com and www.reidsguides.com : websites with a wealth of travel information www.rome2rio.com : website compares suggested routes and prices using plane, train, bus, car, and ferry between two locations 27
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