The report "The value of AACUPI Study Programs in Italy" (by S. Duranti, M. Donati, and R. Paniccià, bilingual publication) was presented by AACUPI – Association of American College and University Programs in Italy last November at the John Cabot University in Rome.
Introduced by the President of JCU, Franco Pavoncello, Silvia Duranti and Renato Paniccià spoke on behalf of IRPET. On behalf of AACUPI, Portia Prebys, Fabrizio Ricciardelli, and Gian Franco Borio were the speakers.
The aim of this study is to analyze the sociological and economic effects of American students studying in Italy, focusing on two main aspects:
- Sociological and Economic Impact on Students: The study examines the responses of students to their stay in Italy through a questionnaire, focusing on their preferences, behaviors, and interactions during their time abroad.
- Economic Exposure of National and Regional Systems: It also assesses how the Italian economy, both at the national and regional levels, is impacted by American students through the local units of AACUPI (American Association of College and University Programs in Italy). This includes the educational services provided by AACUPI institutions and the economic contributions from student spending.
The period covered in this study includes the Spring, Summer, and Fall terms of 2023.
General Trends in American Students Studying Abroad
Before the pandemic, approximately 350,000 American students went abroad each year for study purposes. However, in recent years, this number has dropped significantly to just under 200,000, a decrease of 44%. Europe remains the primary destination for American students, accounting for over 60% of the total number of U.S. students studying abroad.
Historically, the top European destinations have been the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain. However, the relative importance of these countries has shifted over time, with Italy consistently remaining one of the top destinations for U.S. students.
Trends in Italy
Italy has traditionally attracted a significant number of U.S. students. Before the pandemic, the number of U.S. students in Italy peaked at nearly 40,000. In 2022, this number was around 30,000. These 30,000 students represent the combined enrollment of several medium-sized Italian universities, such as Roma Tre, Politecnico di Torino, Parma, and Salerno. This highlights the considerable influence of American students in Italy’s educational landscape.
The AACUPI 2023 Student Survey: An Overview of Student Experience
The AACUPI student survey provides valuable insights into the experiences of U.S. students studying in Italy. The survey covers their interactions with Italian culture, preferences, behaviors, and the impact of the experience on their academic and personal growth.
The Typical AACUPI Student
The typical AACUPI student is a female, 20 years old, enrolled in an undergraduate course, and has rarely traveled abroad before. For most students, the decision to study in Italy is driven by curiosity about studying abroad, the importance of international experience for their education, and its potential to enhance their future career opportunities.
Duration and Nature of Stay
The average duration of a student's stay in Italy is 16 weeks. During this time, students primarily engage with their academic programs but have limited interactions with Italians outside their academic circles. While some students may explore local culture, the majority of their social interactions are with fellow international students, not locals.
Student Satisfaction and Future Intentions
The survey found that 89% of AACUPI students were very or extremely satisfied with their experience in Italy. A significant 84% expressed a desire to return to Italy in the future. This high level of satisfaction indicates that studying in Italy not only meets but often exceeds students' expectations.
In terms of cultural impressions, Italy is predominantly associated with art, history, and beauty in students’ memories. The country’s cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and vibrant lifestyle leave a lasting impression on most students, even if their interactions with the local population are somewhat limited.
Economic Exposure of Italy to AACUPI Students
The study also highlights the economic impact of AACUPI students on Italy’s economy. With the enrollment of American students expected to rise to approximately 40,000 in 2024, Italy is poised to experience continued economic benefits from this demographic. This projection is based on the latest enrollment data and economic multipliers derived from previous studies.
The presence of these students contributes to the local economy in various ways, particularly through their spending on accommodation, food, travel, and leisure activities. AACUPI institutions also contribute to the local economy by purchasing services and goods, employing local staff, and supporting regional economies through the tourism generated by students and their families.
Economic Multiplier Effects
To estimate the economic exposure of AACUPI students in Italy, the study applies economic multipliers derived from past analyses. These multipliers take into account the direct and indirect economic contributions of students and the educational institutions that host them. For example, students’ spending on daily expenses, as well as the activities they engage in during their stay, has a ripple effect throughout the Italian economy. This is especially noticeable in areas with a high concentration of international students, such as Rome, Florence, and Milan.
The study emphasizes that even though American students represent only a small fraction of the overall international student population in Italy, their economic impact is significant due to their higher average spending compared to students from other countries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive assessment of the sociological and economic impact of American students studying in Italy. It highlights the importance of the U.S. student demographic for Italy's education system, as well as its economic benefits at the regional and national levels. With an expected increase in the number of AACUPI students to approximately 40,000 by 2024, the economic exposure of Italy to these students is projected to rise, creating further opportunities for local businesses, educational institutions, and tourism-related industries.
The findings also suggest that U.S. students view their time in Italy not only as an educational opportunity but as a culturally enriching experience that leaves a lasting impact on their perceptions of the country. The study underscores the value of international exchange programs in fostering global connections and supporting local economies.