Julian Santos: Italy

Julian Santos is taking an unconventional approach to college by joining Northeastern University’s international N.U.In program. Instead of spending his first semester of college at their Boston campus, Santos will spend his first semester at a sister school in Rome, Italy.

The N.U.In program fosters a strong sense of community for its students. “With the N.U.In program, I will be with at least 200 other Northeastern students on my campus,” he said. “(That aspect will) make it easier to make it feel like home.”

Santos sees this opportunity as a chance to explore his interests before committing to a major. “My goal is to adapt to this brand new culture and learn enough about myself (so) that I can focus on what I really want to study when I return to the United States,” Santos said.

Being far away from family and friends will be a challenge, but Santos is determined to stay connected. “I think the way to overcome it is just, kind of powering through it and keeping in touch through the phone,” Santos said.

While in Italy, Santos aims to immerse himself in the local culture, pursue his love for cooking and Italian culture. He