Edward Coles, ’19

What made you want to study abroad?

I think it’s a very unique opportunity to combine study abroad and education. Also, there were some of my friends who were going and going abroad gives me the chance to explore, which I thought would be really fun.

What do you like most about your classes at Temple University Rome?

It’s been a very collaborative environment. Throughout many of my classes, they encourage participation on every front and are receptive of where you’re from as well as your opinion.

What are you most excited to learn about while abroad?

I think having a greater appreciation of the history of places, cuisines, and culture, but also the manner of people behaving across Europe. I’m from London so for me, living in Europe is an eye opening experience as the manner of people are different in London than they are in Italy and other parts of Europe. It’s quite interesting to understand cultural differences as you travel.

What would you like to accomplish by the end of the semester here in Rome?

On the academic front, the classes here are interesting. Many of the classes at Temple Rome are ones that I wouldn’t have had the chance to take at Duke. Ultimately, by the end of the semester, I hope that I am able to use the content I’ve learned. I want to expand my knowledge across Europe and maintain the relations I’ve created with Temple students and others I’ve met across the journey.

What do you hope to get out of this experience and how will it help you with your professional goals?

I hope this experience will increase my awareness of world matters, the way people discuss things, and behave as I believe it will be valuable while working in Europe.

What is the coolest thing that you’ve done so far while abroad?

Surfing in Lisbon. I had never been surfing before and the guy who coached us, Dino, was a crazy guy with really long hair, surfing was his whole life and he was genuinely intrigued by us being study abroad students. Towards the end, I can argue that I successfully stood up and surfed a wave.

What advice would you give to students thinking about attending Temple University Rome in the future?

Embrace everything and don’t shy away from doing things that you might not otherwise do because you’ll regret it once you go home.