Abroaden Your Horizons
History and the Heart of Rome: Roman Catholicism with Jessica Simmons
Jun 08, 2026
Season 7
Episode 6
SCU Study Abroad
In this episode of Abroaden Your Horizons, SCU junior Jessica Summons takes us along her study abroad journey in Rome, Italy with the John Felice Rome Center as an Accounting major. Stepping into a new country and culture, Jessica shares what it was like navigating the rhythms of daily life in Rome while learning to approach the city with cultural awareness and respect for local communities. From mastering public transportation to discovering hidden corners of the Eternal City, she reflects on how each experience helped her grow more confident and independent far from home.
She also opens up about how immersing herself in the local culture through food, language, and everyday interactions, along with getting involved on campus, created a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar place. Whether it was finding comfort in solo adventures or stepping outside her comfort zone to meet new people, Jessica highlights the moments that shaped her experience. Along the way, she built meaningful, lasting friendships with fellow students and people from around the world, ultimately transforming her time abroad into a journey of personal growth, connection, and self-discovery.