How to Include a Summer in Rome on Your College Application

When applying to colleges, some of the most important materials are resumes, personal statements, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Let’s go over how to include a CIEE high school summer abroad program in Rome in them!

Resume: Highlight Your Summer Abroad in Rome

Typically, because of the large volume of applicants, recruiters and admissions quickly glance at resumes, and a High School Summer Abroad program will definitely catch their eye. I will include an example below of how to do this!

Resume Example

Essays and Personal Statement: Share Your Rome Experience

Many college applications require an essay and/or a personal statement. Sharing a meaningful moment from your time in Rome, and what it taught you about global awareness, Italian language and culture, proves to admissions that your curiosity and character will benefit their institution.

Academic Transcript: Transfer Your Summer Abroad Credits

You won’t have to do too much for this one. Your credits should transfer and appear on your transcript, so you can simply send it along with your application. Be sure to verify this as you begin applying.

Letters of Recommendation: Leverage International Experience

If your program leader or language instructor can speak to your abilities, consider asking them for a letter! Including a recommendation from someone who saw you in an international setting adds a unique perspective.

Bonus – Interviewing: Stand Out with Stories from Rome

Having stories about your personal experience living in Rome is such an advantage in interviews. Among other candidates, who really could say they were immersed into a new culture before the age of 18?! I mention my College Study Abroad every chance that I get, and it truly sets me apart.

Be ready to discuss how the experience changed your perspective and prepared you for college life. Admissions teams prioritize applicants who have had real-life growth and changed perspectives. At the end of the day, I find that it’s all about what you can give to the university, and what they can do for you in return.

Ready to Transform Your College Application?

Group of high school students at La Fontana Delle Tartarughe

Start your own high school summer abroad in Rome and gain experiences that will make your college application stand out. Explore a new city, practice Italian, and immerse yourself in Italian culture. Apply now and take the first step toward an unforgettable summer!