On the fourth day we moved class outside to go see Pope Francis give a speech in The Vatican Square. I found the event rather interesting because it wasn’t exactly what I expected. He did act a lot like a state leader/president but he also seemed like a celebrity in my opinion. To me it … Continue reading The Pope, his character and influence in international relations by Jacob Ward →

On day two we went and toured both The Coliseum an The Forum. Both were fairly impressive and demonstrated how advanced and powerful the Romans were for their time. Most of Rome’s architecture depicted ancient battles and important events which is also very interesting because it has become one of our best sources of the … Continue reading It is fascinating that someone could build such a thing as the Coliseum in that time period! by Jacob Ward →

Today was truly a once-in-a-lifetime day. I mean, yes, this entire trip is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but today was just the panna (whipped cream) on the gelato. We went to the Vatican’s bible study this morning, arriving at just past 8 o’clock this morning, and were greeted by thousands of people. Thousands. All to see the Pope, and rightfully … Continue reading Papa Francesco! by Sara-Kay West →

Today was quite the exciting one. To start of the morning, I’m just lying there perfectly content in dream land when I hear the loudest banging on a door possibly created… or so I thought. Immediately I jump out of bed with complete alertness like some burglar is trying to get in. Fortunately it was … Continue reading Receiving the Pope’s Blessing in Rome! by Daniella Sanchez →

On day three we began our day again by going to classes at the Vatican university. This time we found our classroom with ease. In class we talked about the religions in India including Hinduism and Buddhism. We also talked about the impacts of the military, force, and terrorism have in international relations and what … Continue reading Eastern Religions, the Pantheon, and the International Relations of Soccer by Cole Walters →

The first day in Italy for us was somewhat extreme. After getting off an 8 hour flight we rushed out of the airport to get to the hotel and eat dinner. Once finished we walked to The Vatican and toured St.Peters Basilica, attending mass and walking to the very top floor. Then we came back … Continue reading Learning About the Flexible Borders Between Italy and The Vatican by Jacob Ward →

Today may be the pinnacle of my teaching career. Class was held in St. Peter’s at the Vatican. We merged with crowds of thousands from all over the world. We watched the Pope bless children and the sick, then drive past the crowds. We actually were within 10 or so feet of him at one … Continue reading The Pope was my guest speaker! by Brandy Stark →

So again, I’m gonna make this short and sweet because I got behind in my posts and want to do as many updates as humanly possible. Today we went to the Pantheon,  to see the architecture and stuff. I definitely wasn’t as amazed as when we went to the Basilica, but amazed nonetheless. I think … Continue reading Visiting the Pantheon in Rome! by Relynn Capra →

Today was yet another magnificent day in the life of an Italian: I woke up and actually began my coffee habit! I had a few sips to wake me up, not enough to actually finish an entire cup (tazza), but enough to keep me awake and engaged in class. World Religions and International Relations passed … Continue reading Studying in Rome: The Bucket List by Sara-Kay West →