Choosing an international school in Rome comes with plenty of questions. One of the biggest? Understanding the difference between the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) programs.

In this special episode of Rome Unfiltered, we go beyond life in the Eternal City to explore a decision that matters to international and local families alike: choosing the right academic pathway for their children.

Joined by Jerry Duggan, Secondary School Principal at the American Overseas School of Rome (AOSR), we break down the differences between IB and AP, how universities recognize these qualifications, and why having access to both programs gives students greater flexibility as they plan their futures.

We also discuss how families can navigate the international education system, why personal interests and strengths should guide academic choices, and how schools can prepare students for a world that's constantly changing.

Whether you're moving to Rome with teenagers, raising your family here, or simply curious about international education, this episode offers practical insights to help you make informed decisions.

Rome Unfiltered. Real conversations about living, learning, and finding your place in Rome.

A special thank you to Rachel Loxton, freelance journalist based in Berlin for taking the time to interview our very own Jerry.

Rome Unfiltered | Season 2, Episode 2

Think you know how to eat in Rome? Think again!

Why does your coffee cost more when you sit down? Should you tip at restaurants? What's a coperto, and why does your waiter never seem to bring the bill?

In this episode of Rome Unfiltered, host Walter is joined by Joanna, Barbara, and Alexis, three food-loving expats who have spent years navigating Rome's dining culture.

Together, they share their funniest restaurant misunderstandings, unexpected cultural discoveries, and practical tips for eating like a local.

From aperitivo and coffee rituals to restaurant reservations, tipping etiquette, Sunday grocery closures, and the unwritten rules of Italian dining, we explore what newcomers need to know about Roman food culture.

Whether you've just moved to Rome, are planning your move, or have lived here for years, this episode will help you understand the habits, traditions, and occasional frustrations that make eating in Rome such a unique experience.

Because in Rome, knowing what to eat is only half the story. Knowing how to eat is where things get interesting.

🎙️ Rome Unfiltered is the podcast made by expats, for expats, sharing the real experiences, cultural surprises, and everyday lessons of living in the Eternal City.

Enjoyed the episode? Share it with someone moving to Rome, and follow Rome Unfiltered for more conversations about life in Italy.

#RomeUnfiltered #LivingInRome #RomanFoodCulture #ExpatsInRome #ItalianFood #LifeInItaly

ROME UNFILTERED – Season 2, Episode 2 (Part 2 of 2) Rome Will Love You Back (Part 2): The Day Rome Starts Feeling Like Home

How does a city that once felt overwhelming become a place you never want to leave?

In Part 2 of this conversation, Walter continues speaking with Polly and Angie about the mindset shifts that come with building a life in Rome. Looking back on their own journeys, they reflect on the moments that transformed Rome from a city they were trying to navigate into a place they truly call home.

Together, they explore what changed over time, how they adapted to Roman culture, the routines that brought stability, and why many of the things that frustrated them in the beginning are now part of what they appreciate most. More importantly they explore the changes in their children and what they think their kids will miss the most once they leave.

In this episode, they discuss:

• The turning points that changed their experience of Rome • How their perspectives evolved over time • Raising children in an international city • Building routines that create a sense of home • The values they've adopted from Italian culture • Advice they would give every new family moving to Rome

Whether you've just arrived or have lived here for years, this episode is a reminder that adapting to life abroad doesn't happen overnight. It happens through everyday experiences, small mindset shifts, and giving yourself the time to grow.

If you haven't already, listen to Part 1, where Polly and Angie discuss the emotional stages of expat life, culture shock, and the challenges of settling into Rome.

Rome Unfiltered is made by expats, for expats. Real stories. Practical advice. Life in Rome without the filter.