Learn by Doing takes on a whole new meaning through the Cal Poly in Rome: Mechanics study abroad program, part of the Cal Poly Global Programs.
Back for its third cohort, the program – led by mechanical engineering Professor Brian Self and civil and environmental engineering Professor Garrett Hall – allows students to explore Italy while learning engineering.
“Rome is such a vibrant, historical city that it is difficult to think of a more interesting place to take students to study abroad,” Self said.
“Everywhere you turn, there is an ancient ruin with an interesting backstory or an amazing work of art. We can talk about ancient Roman achievements – the Colosseum, the Forum, aqueducts, hydraulic concrete – as well as more contemporary achievements such as the MOSE floodgate project in Venice.”
Sammy McLane, a fourth-year industrial engineering student, learned about the study abroad opportunity in an email and wanted to know more.
“I was searching for a study abroad program that would align with the classes my major required because it was important that I still graduated on time,” she said. “I’ve also wanted to visit Italy for a few years!”
McLane found the program unmatched, allowing her to progress in her degree while exploring some of the world’s most incredible sights.
“In Rome, we had a normal class schedule with a few three-day weekends allowing us to take weekend trips often,” she explained. “There was also time to explore Rome in the afternoons and evenings if you chose to.”
While students were able to explore solo or with their classmates, the program also offered a few guided tours throughout Italy.
The program is so popular that the team hopes to add a cohort during the winter quarter, led by civil and environmental engineering Professor Eric Kasper.
Engineering students who want to take part in this opportunity for themselves can apply for the 2024-25 academic year Cal Poly in Rome: Mechanics program.
The cohort will spend 11 weeks in Italy while fulfilling 13 course units. There will be excursions planned for Rome, Vatican City, Florence, Pisa, Bologna and Venice.
Students can get more information and apply by April 1 here.
While study abroad has some need-based scholarships available, Self hopes to obtain funding to provide financial aid specifically for students in the Cal Poly in Rome: Mechanics program.
If you are interested in supporting the program, please email Dan Rushing at drushing@calpoly.edu.
By Taylor Villanueva
