Beyond Borders: Jennifer’s Journey Expat from New Jersey to Rome

In this interview “Beyond Borders: Jennifer’s Journey Expat from New Jersey to Rome”, we delve into the inspiring story of Jennifer, a first-generation American who traded the familiar landscapes of New Jersey for the rich culture and history of Rome.

What started as a study abroad adventure evolved into a life-changing journey, leading Jennifer to discover a deeper sense of self and a new place to call home.

Join us as she shares her challenges, triumphs, and the lessons learned while navigating life as an expat in Italy.

Hi Jennifer, tell us a little bit about yourself, where were you born, what do you do and why did you decide to take up this lifestyle and move?

So I’m originally from the United States; I was born and raised in New Jersey.

My expat journey started in 2018 when I decided to go abroad for my third year of university.

I lived in London, Paris, and Rome during this time and was fortunate enough to visit and explore other countries in Europe.

I loved how different things were in Europe compared to back home and really discovered myself and felt better with the person I was abroad.

For that reason I decided I wanted to move abroad after completing my degree.

Fast forward to almost a year later, during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic I moved to Rome again to pursue a Masters.

Currently, I work for the admissions department for an American university based here in Rome.

What were the biggest difficulties you encountered in this life changing journey?

I would say moving somewhere new is a challenge/adjustment for anyone, whether it be to a new city, new state, or new country.

My first time in Europe was much easier since I had help from study abroad programs that dealt with visas, documents, and navigation throughout the city.

Studying abroad vs living abroad are very different and I found just how difficult it can be to move to a completely different country.

Dealing with bureaucracy, such as going to the immigration office for my permit to stay, or just dealing with any government office, even the post office was pretty overwhelming at times, especially when I wasn’t aware of the language or how the system works in comparison to back in the states.

I was really lucky to be in a relationship with a local who supported me throughout my entire journey and adjusting to life here in Rome.

I think this was a big challenge/difficulty for me, and I felt it was even harder to deal with during a whole pandemic.

It was scary moving to another country alone during the pandemic, especially when I was positive with covid.

Oftentimes because of the pandemic I felt isolated due to the restrictions and lock-downs.

I also felt like I wasn’t able to fully take advantage and enjoy my experience in Rome, especially compared to the first time I stayed in Rome.

With language how did you do? How long did it take you to understand and be understood?

For someone who has been in Rome for almost four years, I’m embarrassed to say my Italian is not the best.

I’ve been able to understand it pretty well for the most part…

I’m grateful to have known Spanish as it did help me alot in the beginning.

As I mentioned earlier, I moved to Italy to complete a masters, which was conducted mainly online and entirely in English.

Also, the numerous restrictions for the pandemic made it difficult for me to meet new people and try to practice my Italian skills.

My work experience in Rome is based on English so that also has affected my chances to really practice Italian.

My partner is from Rome and he does try to help me with my Italian so it’s been a work in progress.

I plan to completely dedicate myself and enroll in intensive Italian classes so that I can be at the level of Italian I should be at this point.

How do you feel about Italy? What are the positive and negative aspects of living in this country?

I truly enjoy living in Italy.

So far I’ve experienced the Lizzie McGuire experience many Americans joke about when they think of an American in Italy.

The lifestyle is much different here from home. It’s a much slower pace of life but still has the element of city life, at least here in Rome.

The locals from my experience are nice and welcoming, they are patient when I try to speak Italian and even appreciate the effort.

The quality of life is nice. Back in the states it feels like people live to work, whereas people work to live.

The quality of the food is 100% better, and I’m a foodie so my diet is mainly pizza and pasta!

However, like I said earlier, the bureaucracy aspect is absolutely a pain to deal with.

The permit to stay process is something every expat struggles with so patience is something I have developed immensely since I’ve lived in Rome.

The transportation system is another pain but it’s also something normal to me at this point.

What do you deal with in life? Do you think you would have had the same opportunities in your country?

Moving abroad has its challenges.

I basically started from zero in a foreign country where I had no family, no friends, no knowledge of the language, no real understanding how things worked if I’m being honest.

I definitely don’t have the same opportunities as I would in the U.S.

It’s been hard finding professional work as an expat here in Rome.

I realized it was already hard for locals to find employment, but for an expat… it’s been a humbling experience.

I know the job market in the U.S hasn’t been great either but my chances of finding work would be much easier in comparison to now.

The work I’ve had since living in Rome has been teaching English in the high schools and working in international higher education; these are the complete opposite of the two degrees I’ve completed and weren’t what I expected to work in.

Do you miss home and your family? Do you go back to visit them often?

It’s funny to think about this question.

I’ve never really experienced the sensation of being home-sick.

I felt a bit out of place when I lived in New Jersey, and I consider Rome to be my home.

I discovered myself and am content with the person I am here compared to in the U.S.

Do I miss my family? I speak to my mom and facetime with her at least three times a day, mainly so she can see my dog Valentino, who is my fur-baby.

I speak often with my family and don’t feel as different as when I went to university.

My mom has made the effort to come at least once a year and I take her around Rome and other cities throughout Italy.

I also try to go once a year back to New Jersey to see my friends and family.

It has been hard at times maintaining contact with my loved ones back in the states because of the time difference but it makes me appreciate my relationships even more because of the effort put into staying in contact and seeing each other when I visit.

What are your plans for the future?

I’m not 100% sure what the future will be like. Do I continue working in some form of education here in Italy?

Do I keep trying to secure work in one of the international or NGOs based here in Rome? I wish to stay in Rome longer and even try to obtain citizenship.

My partner and I often discuss whether to stay in Italy or try to establish a life in America.

I guess time will tell but I’m hoping to continue la dolce vita and grow something meaningful and long term with what I have now.

I’m currently in the process of starting a small business where I help people who are interested in going to Italy.

This includes focusing on trips to Italy (mainly Rome), moving to Italy, or sending postcards. Hopefully it grows into something!

What advice would you give to someone who would like to make this life change and move to another country? 

If someone wants to move abroad, regardless of where, I say go for it.

We have one life to live and we all deserve to explore our options and find a place that feels like our real home.

Some people are happy staying where they were born and raised, others wish to discover new places.

For those who want to try to live in another country, I say to do your research, there are different ways you can move to another country and many things to consider.

The logistics can be overwhelming, but if it’s something you really want then trust me it will be worth it in the end. You aren’t the only person in this situation.

There’s so many different groups on social media, so connect and see what people have done or if you have questions.

Once you make your dream a reality and end up in another country, find your community as well.

I think it’s really important to know you aren’t alone and there’s a whole expat community who go explore the city, share similar concerns, similar goals, etc.

As a first generation American, I always assumed my life would be based in the states. I was excited just to go to college in another state and being the first generation college graduate in my family!

I thought only opportunity for me to see the world was when I studied abroad, and that opportunity truly opened my eyes and realized what a little bubble I was in!

I’m forever grateful to have been able to see some parts of the world, and truly blessed that I’ve been able to move abroad and become the person I never expected to be.

Hopefully for those in similar situations, this interview is reassurance that it is possible to live in another country and that your dreams can become a reality!

I appreciate the time to hear my story!

If anyone is interested in moving to Rome, planning a trip to Rome, recommendations (especially food spots!), or is also an expat I’d love to connect!

Thank you Jennifer!

Jennifer’s journey Expat from New Jersey to Rome is a testament to the transformative power of embracing change and stepping beyond one’s comfort zone.

Her story is a reminder that, while the path to a new life abroad may be filled with challenges, it also offers unique opportunities for growth, self-discovery and connection.

As Jennifer continues to build her life in Italy, her experiences serve as an inspiration for anyone dreaming of a fresh start in a new country.

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