I agree that one of the most untrue stereotypes of Italians is that they do not work hard, because most people I have met are willing to put in very long hours.

I agree that one of the most untrue stereotypes of Italians is that they do not work hard, because most people I have met are willing to put in very long hours. Unfortunately I have also found the "Italians are not that effective" stereotype to be somewhat true. In a university context people are willing to meet and study all day long but often there is no agenda, no direction poor preperation and people being late. Basically I think Italian systems should focus more on brevity and precision, then they could also take some more time off and get the same amount done :)