A Colosseum Internship Anchored My Unforgettable Summer in Rome

As I thought about summer experiences for 2026, I knew I wanted to travel abroad. Most programs advertised themselves as basic study abroad experiences, but I was looking for a truly unique opportunity. After looking into IFSA, I immediately knew this organization was the perfect fit.  

I discovered that, in addition to classes, there was also a unique internship program. As someone interested in ancient history, specifically the Roman Empire, the opportunity of getting to do something in Rome sounded like a dream come true. Thanks to IFSA and some employees in Rome, during the application process, I secured an internship at the Flavian Amphitheater—also known as the Colosseum! 

An insider view of Rome’s ancient history  

I started my internship soon after I arrived in Rome and was tasked with translation work. As a fluent English speaker, I translated presentations, exhibitions, personal documents, and parts of the website for the Colosseum and its employees. Additionally, I also worked closely with my boss on creative narrative pieces about the Triumphal Arch of Constantine.  

I enjoyed coming to work every day, meeting new people and feeling like I was making a positive impact in the work environment around me. The Parco Archeologico del Colosseo welcomes around 30,000 people every day, so the staff is always busy. Yet I continued to be surprised by how welcoming and friendly everyone was, regardless of job or status within the park.  

As someone interested in ancient history, the opportunity of getting to do something in Rome sounded like a dream come true. 

After a few weeks, I was asked to arrive early to help oversee the filming of a movie. I didn’t know what to expect. Because it was very early in the morning, the Colosseum was almost completely empty. Seeing the historical site is fascinating at any time of day, but it was then that I truly understood how grand and special this place truly is.  

Unique experiences that changed me 

As I wrapped up my internship, I could not help but feel like I had grown a lot, not just in my field of interest, but also as a person. Because of the opportunity afforded to me by IFSA, I built genuine connections with historians, archaeologists, and architects, and learned a lot in the process. In addition, spending a significant amount of time in Rome truly pushed me to try new things and fully immerse myself in Italian and Roman culture. Living in central Italy also allowed me the freedom to easily travel to other cities and historical sites, which continued to broaden my horizons.  

If you are unsure about going abroad, I fully encourage you to take a leap of faith and apply for a program through IFSA. By truly prioritizing my success, comfortability, and priorities, I was able to have this life-changing experience that simply would not have been possible without the amazing IFSA employees that I can honestly consider great friends. As I return to the United States, I know I will never forget this incredible summer experience in Rome.  

Jaden C. | Rhodes College | IFSA Summer Internships in Rome, Italy | 2026