I'm a little nervous about the language barrier when i move. The classes will be held in english, but i'm mainly concerned with communicating with others throughout the city. does anyone have any advice on the easiest way to learn Italian??? does anyone have related experiences when they moved?? just a bit curious and lost all at once. Thanks for all of the help!

When are you leaving? I'd take a summer school course in intro Italian. Once you're there the easiest way is to simply talk to Italians as much as possible. And study hard at it.

FWIW, my experience is recounted at http://www.straughan.com/italy/learning.htm

Thanks for the advice and the story. it was helpful in easing my nerves. I'm looking into taking a summer class of italian at a local university, but I'm not sure if i'll be able to afford it along with everything i have to pay for the university in Rome. I'll be leaving on August 29. Thanks for the help!

Dani,

I just studied on my own when I first came to Rome (I had no money) and I did language exchanges with Italians who wanted to practice their English. It was a great way to meet people and the only way I could entice someone to endure conversation with me in Italian There are always ads for exchanges in the English bookshops, the Pasquino cinema and sometimes in Wanted in Rome.

I also went to see book presentations (again, I had no money) even when I could only understand one word in ten. It was good practice as far as listening and comprehension. On any given day in Rome there is at least one being presented at a bookshop in the city.

You'll pick it up quickly once here. Good luck.

Steph

Steph, Thanks for all of the help. so far, this is the best advice i've gotten. I too will have very limited money, due to being a college student overseas. Thanks for all of the help!
Dani