You will gain more knowledge of design culture than from the coursework. Learning about how culture impacts design decisions is integral to the study abroad experience. Think of it this way, this is more than life changing learning opportunity, it is resetting your normal because you will never look at design the same again.
Studio Rome is a transformative experience and is the highlight of your interior architecture studies. Students see firsthand what they study in textbooks. Participants spend approx 6 weeks in the summer studying design and architecture in the heart of the Rome. The 4 courses that make up Studio Rome fulfill general and program graduation requirements.
Courses:
INTD 4215 - Studio 8 (4 credits)
INTD 4225 - Global Sustainability (3 credits)
ENTC 3020 - Tech and Society: Made in Italy (3 credits)
ENTC 3050 - Architectural History in Rome (3 credits)
We partner will Accent Rome who provide the day-to-day logistics required for your coursework. This video highlights possible activities during your time in Rome.
Learn more about your Made in Italy class by reading the article labeled, "Design & Culture in Rome's EUR District"
Past Studio Rome Student Reflections
"There is a reason why people say that studying abroad is life changing. There are
lessons we learn and experiences we share that can only be obtained by taking a risk
and settling into a new country for six weeks. When I was first told about this trip,
I knew that it was a once in a life-time opportunity. To have the resources and time
set aside to study my passion in a beautiful new country was a dream come true and
something I wish everyone had the chance to experience. As a designer, being able
to learn with all five senses is crucial in the journey for learning how to design
with all five senses. This type of learning can only be found once you take a step
outside the classroom.
Each day was filled with new adventures and challenges that helped me not only grow
as a designer, but as an adult. I had the chance to see structures like the Pantheon,
the Colosseum, and St. Peter’s Basilica which taught me the history of ancient architecture
and how it still stands almost 2,000 years later. I also learned how to manage by
time better with adapting to walking across the city and using transportation I had
never used before like the metro. The beauty of the Italian culture across Rome, Venice,
and Florence are indescribable and deserve to be experienced with fresh eyes. I would
encourage anyone interested in this trip to take a leap of faith and experience it
yourself!"
Karis Warner, Studio Rome 2024
"My time in Italy during Studio Rome was truly life changing. Though I had traveled Europe before, this experience gave me a new perspective. Instead of just visiting landmarks, I immersed myself in architecture, history, and culture, deeply influencing my design thinking. Seeing how spaces engage the senses inspired new ideas for my work. The light, textures, and intentional details left a lasting impact, showing me the power of architecture in shaping experiences.
The trip also strengthened bonds with my classmates. We went from acquaintances to a close-knit group, sharing laughs, late-night talks, and adventures. Exploring together and experiencing Rome beyond a tourist’s view brought us together in a special way. Even now, we reminisce about those moments, knowing Studio Rome shaped us as designers and friends.
Day trips were a highlight—each city had unique charm, history, and architectural wonders. Discovering new places enriched my appreciation for design. Another invaluable part was getting closer to our professors. Outside the classroom, they shared their passion and insights, making a lasting impact on my growth as a designer."
Charleigh Long, Studio Rome 2024
Studio Rome was more than a study abroad program—it transformed how I think, design,
and connect. The memories, friendships, and lessons will continue to inspire me. "One
of my biggest dreams came true! Ever since I began studying the Coliseum and other
ancient Roman architecture in my history classes, I dreamed of experiencing these
landmarks in person. This dream became a reality through Studio Rome, and I knew I
could not let this opportunity pass by. When I learned that the Interior Architecture
program offered this unique experience, I took every possible step to ensure I could
not only visit, but to study and see all the beautiful architecture. Unfortunately,
my hopes were crushed during COVID-19 pandemic. Not being able to go in my second
or third year was devastating. I thought I had lost my chance to study abroad in Rome.
But finally, I was able to accompany the second-year students as a teaching assistant
(TA), an experience that proved to be both rewarding and invaluable. Not only did
I help students while studying abroad, but I also learned more about this profession.
I vividly remember my first day. Although I was exhausted from the long flight, my excitement for being in Rome drove me to continue exploring the city. During the first week, we all walked around a lot, exploring the city. By the second week, we knew our routes and how to navigate the transportation. We felt we became part of the culture. Although we arrived at class hot and sweaty, we loved it! As part of my role as a TA, I was responsible for taking pictures and videos. I have so many pictures that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Those pictures captured special moments with the students— whether walking the streets of Rome or engaged in academic work. One of the most interesting exercises the students did was studying human behavior around piazzas. They learned how locals and tourists interact differently in these public spaces. This was an insightful and valuable exercise.
There is so much to learn in Rome, so much to eat, and so much to enjoy! Everywhere you look, there is something new to discover. The beautiful art and architecture are everywhere! This program opened my eyes to new perspectives, and I will forever cherish this unforgettable trip. It was worth the wait!"
Teressa Rameriz, Studio Rome 2023
"The opportunity to study in parts of the world I had only ever viewed in books or online was one I could not pass up. I anticipated seeing iconic pieces of architecture, such as the Colosseum and St. Peter's Basilica. There were high expectations, but nothing could truly compare to the experience except for actually living through it. One day we would be walking paths that were first tread by Pompeiians, and the next day I would be wondering why my feet hurt, only to find that I had walked over 30,000 steps exploring the streets of Rome. The educational setting was one I found myself more motivated to learn in, as we made first-hand observations in a foreign country. This offered much more of an enriching academic environment outside the traditional classroom.
At the beginning of the program, there are so many new things each day to experience. It all is so overwhelming, and you feel like you need to see everything at once. Then near the middle of the program, the initial surreal feeling of being in another country fades, and you are able to slow down and see places from different points of view. There is time to visit a site to just sit and sketch-- to take in details that wouldn't have been noticed during the first encounter. Being able totraveled live in Rome gave me different perspectives that I will still consider going into the future. Each class shed a new light on the city and its treasures. From learning their history and getting in touch with the past, to watching how people interact with their environment in the present day. Study abroad taught me more than just academic information. While the curriculum enhanced me as a designer, two months as a resident of Rome gave me new way to think about life. Never did I realize how much my daily life could change, or how that would affect me in the long run. This program is one I will remember for the rest of my life, and I am so glad I made the decision to be a part of it."
Kaylee Tollesfon, Studio Rome 2019
"My long time dream of studying abroad became reality this past summer as I with classmates from the Interior Architecture program to Rome, Italy. It was a fulfillment of the culmination of months preparing and envisioning living abroad for two months. To say Rome was incredible is an understatement. It was both architecturally beautiful and culturally enriching. The stark contrast between modern societies living among ancient architecture was enthralling: structures built to last generations support reusability, recycling, and sustainability, all while upholding people groups with modern ideas and ambitions. Weekend getaways to living other Italian cities only furthered the uniqueness of the architecture and culture in Rome.
By week three of eight total weeks, my classmates and I were adjusted to the quick-paced metropolis lifestyle: maneuvering public transportation, revisiting our favorite coffee shops, waving at local Italians, and completing homework like we were in the comfort of our American homes. I quickly became closer to my classmates, who are now some of my closest friends. I also valued and treasured time alone, wandering the streets and sitting in our apartment’s courtyard. The school workload was challenging, but brought forth experiences that are unforgettable: well-known site visits, day trips, sustainability exercises, artisanal making classes, and designing for Roman spaces. I will forever remember walking down the narrow cobblestone streets with a gelato in hand and accordion music filling the air, basking in the reality that I experienced in Rome."
Jessica Heacock, Studio Rome 2018
My experience studying abroad in Rome, Italy for the summer was life-changing. I made so many memories and got to know my classmates even better while living with them. Visiting places that I have learned about in art history and historical interior classes was eye-opening. A picture may be worth a thousand words, but I found that pictures do not do many of the monuments and cathedrals justice. Upon experiencing these place in person, the scale of the spaces is incredible and the attention to small details is astounding.
"Being able to stay in Rome for nine weeks was wonderful in that I got to see the city from two perspectives: first as a tourist taking in the sights and the culture, and then as a resident who noticed smaller details and who really got to know the city. Even after being in Rome for many weeks, there were still new things to be discovered when walking around the city streets such as art exhibitions, stores, restaurants, markets, and street performers to name a few examples. I learned not only about the architecture and history of Rome, but also about the culture and the people. It truly inspired and changed me in my outlook on design and on a personal level as well. There were ups and downs along the way, but I have no regrets about studying abroad and would do it again if I could. I am very grateful that I had the chance to participate in the study abroad program in Rome while at East Tennessee State University and would encourage anyone who is interested to participate in the program as well."
Abigail Bennett, Studio Rome 2016
"The students gained more knowledge of studying in Rome than what we would have learned within a semester being in a classroom. Their perspective on life, values, and culture changed as they studied throughout the city of Rome. A stronger understanding about ourselves as designers and other design students were only one of the marvelous outcomes. The food, culture, and atmosphere were all breathtaking.
It's hard to explain something that you can't put a price on, this was an opportunity of a lifetime and it's something you will carry and have with you forever. The trip also is very beneficial in my career field by expanding what you know is possible. It changes the way you design and view the world around you. You will never regret studying in Rome, therefore never pass up the opportunity to travel and don't be afraid of adventure!!!"
Ashley Russell, Studio Rome 2013
