LUISS

Most Italians bought all their own books - I was one of the few people to use the library (although it was not very user friendly). Ask people in upper years to lend you their books (they're very obliging that way). Internet access at uni was fine, though a turn system was used. Printing was free! If you can avoid it, don't even think about opening a bank account - they charge you for the pleasure. Uni provides emergency medical health insurance for free. Registering with a normal doctor is tricky at first, but it's useful for prescription medicines (which can often be got by paying full commercial price at pharmacies without having a prescription), because it's only €1 with a prescription. The Erasmus grant, and the lack of having to pay tuition fees, and the fact that Ryanair flights are cheaper than GNER trains from Durham to London, meant that my finances were as healthy if not more as they would be at home.

If travelling throughout the country is likely, it's much more advisable to buy a "chilometrico" ticket for the trains than individau trip tickets-it offers huge savings for distance:price. Bus/underground passes are very good value for money-around £10/month with student card. Also, check for student reductions for all facilites/entertainment.

At your arrival in Rome, stay at the Beehive.com. This is a very cheap and excellent tiny, little youth hostel, run by a couple from LA, California. Lovely!

The energy costs are very high-turn off it as often as possible.

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