Imagine the Renaissance. Imagine a beautiful European city with its Old Town filled with memories of past epochs. Imagine romance, olives, Mediterranean climate and crystal clear water. Imagine Italy. Then imagine that you can study there.

One of the study abroad programs offered in the spring of 2011 will include just that in the 12-unit semester in Rome.

“I’ve always wanted to go to Rome, it’s like a childhood dream,” said Ella Talkin, an English major attending the program. “So when I saw the poster I was like: ‘Yes, this is what I want to do!'”

The returning program, said to be one of the most popular among the students, takes off again in the beginning of February. So far 22 students have applied, which leaves 8 spots still up for grabs.

The 30 students will get the opportunity to experience Rome and Europe in a program including courses in Creative writing, Renaissance art, World Literature and Italian Grammar. The courses will count just like regular City College classes, and are transferable.

“That’s really helpful,” Talkin said. “I would be taking these classes anyway for my major, but taking them in Rome is so much better.”

The new director for the creative writing program this year is Professor David Starkey. He has been an English professor for 18 years and has a past of studying and teaching abroad.

“It will be a lifelong experience and a chance to meet new people,” Starkey said, but he also has another expectation.

“I’m travelling with my wife and kids, so I’m hoping it will be a good family experience too.”

Starkey will be teaching the courses in Creative Writing and World Literature. The Italian faculty will instruct in Italian grammar and Renaissance art.

The students will be taking classes four days a week, and live together in dormitories. They will also get the opportunity to travel around Rome in arranged field trips.

For those facing financial trouble, there are scholarships on up to $2,000 to apply for.

“It’s very good that they offer scholarships,” Talkin said and pointed out that it’s hard to afford these kinds of programs without it.

“I will apply for scholarships, use personal savings and talk to my grandparents,” she said with a chuckle.

“I’ve been travelling a lot in Europe so I’m used to it,” she said. “The only thing I’m worried about is missing my family.”

Applications for the program are due Friday Oct.15, but Starkey encourages those who might make a last minute decision to apply even though the time is short.