Reporters

Mehmet Akinci
University: Bahçeşehir Üniversitesi
Major: Journalism and Cinema & Television
Urbino Experience: One of the reasons why I came to Urbino is to have a great experience and learn new skills for my career. Because before coming I knew that the best lecturers of the USA would lecture us, in particular, When I heard that two teachers in my group won Pulitzer Prize I got more excited. I spent really great time with them and they taught me many things that I will never have one more chance to learn them. I strongly believe that in my life something happens once and this experience is one of them. One of the reasons why I came to Urbino is to have a great experience and learn new skills for my career. Because before coming I knew that the best lecturers of the USA would lecture us, in particular, When I heard that two teachers in my group won Pulitzer Prize I got more excited. I spent really great time with them and they taught me many things that I will never have one more chance to learn them. I strongly believe that in my life something happens once and this experience is one of them.

Nandi Alexander
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design and Justice Studies
Urbino Experience: Urbino has given me a new outlook on the world. It inspired me to branch out from what I know into the unknown, which is the rest of the world. This has been a stepping stone in the direction of traveling more abroad and learning about new cultures.

Samantha Benedict
University: San Francisco State University
Major: Photojournalism
Urbino Experience: The Urbino Project taught me more than I could have ever hoped for. I learned far more than just journalism. I learned about life, growing up, passion, culture, and cuisine! The students, faculty, and locals have given me an experience that I will appreciate for the rest of my life.

Allison Butler
University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism and Mass Communication
Urbino Experience: Urbino has been more than an eye opening experience for me. It has showed me how to face diversity, language barriers and new customs with ease. I have grown as a photographer and journalist and can’t wait to hit the ground running with my new skills upon my return to the United States. I have fallen in love with Urbino and am counting down the days until my return.

Charles Chavez
University: Winston-Salem State University
Major: Psychology/Art
Urbino Experience: My experience in Urbino was like no other. I’ve never lived in a place where everyone was so nice and welcoming. The town is small and beautiful and the town’s people are warm and always smiling.

Natalie Craig
University: James Madison University
Major: IDLS EXED
Urbino Experience: I have learned a lot through is project. Coming into it I did not know what to expect and coming out I have not only realized what it takes to be a reporter but gained valuable skills that I truly wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else. I have learned to not only approach strangers for information, but to do so in a foreign country and in a foreign language. I was overwhelmed with all the information and helpful experience I received from all the professors and have come out a better writer, a better communicator, and a lot better with iMovie. I’m extremely glad I participated in this program, knowing now that if I can do this, I can do about anything.

Leah De Graaf
University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism and Mass Communication
Urbino Experience: Urbino has stretched my reporting and writing skills to a new level and taught me that getting the story is so much more than simply asking the right questions. It is about absorbing the details around me. In Urbino, I gained confidence in my writing and photography skills, but most importantly, I created memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Erica Demson
University: James Madison University
Major: Communication Studies
Urbino Experience: Urbino has exceed all of my expectations. From the people to the artwork to the architecture, I don’t think I will ever experience such beauty all in one place ever again. This small city has made such an impression on me and has been a blessing to travel to.

Jilanne Doom
University: University of South Dakota
Major: Contemporary Media & Journalism and Political Science
Urbino Experience: As a young journalist with little experience outside of sports reporting, I decided to participate in the Urbino Project to expand my skills in the field. Through countless hours of interviewing, taking video and photos, and fighting with language barriers, I was forced into vital international journalistic experiences that I could not have acquired anywhere else. I arrived in Urbino with high expectations to learn and truly live, and I am leaving with those expectations surpassed more than I could have ever imagined.

Kelsey Fisher
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Journalism
Urbino Experience: I originally wanted to come to Urbino to improve my photography and videography skills, but I gained so much more than that. I was able to immerse myself into the culture and develop friendships with the locals, the interpreters, and the other students that I hope to have for the rest of my life.

Kenzie Fisher
University: James Madison University
Major: English
Urbino Experience: This experience was amazing. I have learned so much in such a short time. I have made friendships, been immersed in the culture, and have gained a new outlook on the world. Urbino is beautiful, not only the landscapes but the people. The tools I have learned will benefit me in the future. This was such a life changing experience. Urbino is the best!

Hamlet Fort
University: Washington & Lee University
Major: Journalism and English Major
Urbino Experience: I came to Urbino because I love Europe, I love writing, I love photography, and I love the challenge of working in a foreign place with such intelligent and motivated faculty and students. The experience was everything I could have hoped for and more.

Mikayla Francese
University: Lindenwood University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Urbino opened my eyes not only not only to a different country and culture but to a new way of writing as a journalist. I was challenged in more ways than I thought was possible and I am now more confident than ever to pursue my career.

Michelle Franks
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Journalism
Urbino Experience: In Urbino you can observe all walks of life: the old, the young, the college students and even some Italian crazies. But the depth of this city is what gives Urbino its charm and what has allowed us to be fully submerged in Italian culture these past four weeks. You can’t find an experience like this anywhere else.

Jena Frick
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Journalism
Urbino Experience: The Urbino Project was definitely a once in a lifetime experience. In this program, I have learned much more than just reporting and journalism; I learned about life, culture, people, and myself. Being completely emerged in the Italian culture was challenging, but at the same time rewarding. This was a great opportunity to practice reporting skills while also having the time of my life.

Daniel Gamberg
University: TBD
Major: TBD
Urbino Experience: (Information to come)

Ashley Grisham
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Converged Media
Urbino Experience: The Urbino Project opened my eyes to real Italian culture. I had been to the tourist towns of Italy, but I’ve never had this unique opportunity to learn, observe, write about, and photograph the beauty of daily Italian life.

Emily Harmon
University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism and International Studies
Urbino Experience: Cappuccinos in Urbino eight times a day will never be matched in greatness, and the same goes for the reporting experience I gained. I never thought I would stick my face two inches from hundreds of crawling bees, only protected by the camera lens, or video a nun cooking in her convent. Cheers to you Urbino.

Stephany Holguin
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Journalism
Urbino Experience: I came to Urbino to broaden my journalism skills, practice foreign reporting and my Italian, but I’ve learned so much more than that. Urbino has been amazing and has taught me a wide variety of things many of which never crossed my mind before the program. I got a chance to talk to people from different backgrounds enriching the cultural experience. The lessons I’ve learned–in terms of journalism and culture–are priceless and very rewarding. I am excited to take all of my new experiences and skills and put them into practice in my future job.

Jennifer Horab
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Converged Media
Urbino Experience: The experience of reporting in Urbino has given me the opportunity to really get to know the Italian culture. I have enjoyed getting to know the locals and appreciate the chance to study here.

Kristen Hotz
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Converged Media
Urbino Experience: The Urbino experience has pushed me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to improve my writing skills and experience. I had so much fun with the various projects we completed and living in a small-town Italian culture. I will always remember the people I met and the experiences I have had and I will cherish these memories forever.

Chelsea Judge
University: Oklahoma State University
Major: Multimedia Journalism
Urbino Experience: I expected some challenges and fun memories out of the program, but could never have anticipated what the Urbino Project would bring to me. My interactions with the locals have taught me just as much as the instructors, who only accept the excellence I thought I didn’t have. These cobblestone streets and green hills will forever be an enchanting place to me.

Milana Katic
University: Indiana University
Major: Journalism (Concentration in Political Science and Minor in Spanish)
Urbino Experience: My experience in Urbino can be adequately be summed up by one very key Italian phrase: “Mamma mia!” The hills, the history, the pasta and the overall experience were such enjoyable eye-openers. Studying abroad is truly a priceless opportunity, and I know my time in Urbino will send me back to the states with a new worldview that will forever be with me.

Sabrina Khan
University: Baruch College Graduate
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: The Urbino Project experience was absolutely amazing and rewarding in multiple ways. I gained invaluable experience in international reporting and simultaneously had the time of my life in the wonderful city of Urbino. The challenges of being lost in translation while pursuing sources for a story in a foreign country were all worth it because of all the incredible people I met through them. Urbino, I’ll miss you!

Leah Koch
University: Indiana University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: This experience has been incomparable. I have met so many wonderful people from the students to the interpreters, that I will not be able to stand leaving. Also I have consumed more variations on pasta than I ever thought possible. I will carry my experiences in Urbino with me for life.

Melek Kucukuzun
University: Bahçeşehir Üniversitesi
Major: Public Relations and Political Science & International Relations
Urbino Experience: Before coming to Urbino, I felt very stressful as a student has nearly no experience about multimedia. But by the help of our professor’s special attention, I’ve learned so many things more than I’ve expected. I’m indebted to all of them to teach us lots of key points about photography, video shoot, writing skills and Italian language at such a short notice. Studying with lots of great professors in the multicultural atmosphere of this program has broaden my horizon. In this Reneasience city with its wonderful nature and gorgeous historical architecture, I’ve spent the most beautiful and productive days of my life. And million thanks for the friendship and kindness of Urbino residents. Ti amo!

Morgan Kuster
University: Iowa State University
Major: Communication Studies
Urbino Experience: My time in Urbino has taught me how to appreciate everything I’ve been given. I’ve learned how to better observe my surroundings and enjoy asking strangers questions about their life. I loved being submerged in a foreign culture and gaining experiences I will carry with me forever.

Kanesha Leak
University: Winston-Salem State University
Major: Mass Communication
Urbino Experience: I’ve had amazing experience here in Urbino Italy. The culture, the people, and learning different media outlets has been great. I always hear about people going other places and having life changing experiences and I never thought that could happen to me. The people in the program I have meet are so wonderful. I can truly say these people are my friends and family. I’ve really learned a lot from Susan B. and Ron. Learning how to take photos and deal with people from different backgrounds. I will NEVER forget the things I have learned here in Urbino or the people. I am a better person and more intelligent than when I came on June 1.

Michelle Lee
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Corporate Communication and Writing, Rhetoric & Technical Communication
Urbino Experience: Greatest adventure of my life. The interesting people I’ve met, the memories I’ve made, and the culture I’ve learned about Urbino have all defined my time in Italy as a wonderful experience.

Pachia Lee
University: Winston-Salem State University
Major: Mass Communications
Urbino Experience: My time here in Urbino has truly been breath-taking. Having had the opportunity to embrace the art of wine and cheese, as well as, the Italian culture has never been more surreal to me. The people I have met and the friendships I have gained in Urbino, Italy will forever be and is everlasting.

Maddaline Liotta
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Journalism
Urbino Experience: I’ve learned and experienced more in Urbino than I ever could have hoped for. This adventure was just the challenge I needed to push me toward being a better journalist and has helped me grow as a creative individual. I doubt I will ever forget this experience, and if I do I’m sure the amazing friends I’ve met will help me remember.

Emily Lucas-Fitzpatrick
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Corporate Communication
Urbino Experience: Urbino has provided a challenging and enlightening experience. Immersing in the culture has given me the opportunity to absorb what this unique location has to offer, while learning from a diverse group of inspiring individuals.

Sofia Lugo
University: Mount Royal University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Coming to Urbino has given me great journalistic experience, while also giving me the change to immerse myself in a foreign culture. I also got the chance to meet amazing people, from Urbino and those part of the Urbino Project too, who taught me a lot in this short time too. It was a very valuable adventure.

Audra Manzer
University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: I joined this program to gain experience with multimedia journalism and to experience true Italian culture. I gained great professional experiences and made life-long friends.

Kaitlin McKinney
University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism and Mass Communication
Urbino Experience: Waking up early for authentic Italian mass and getting my cheeks full of kisses by nuns was only part of the best experiences in Urbino. Cappuccinos, gelato, and wine with great friends and great professors were definitely some of the best experiences of my life and I’m happy that I’m leaving with professional journalistic skills gained through the help of experienced and talented professors.

Jeff Medhurst
University: Mount Royal University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Urbino challenged me in ways I couldn’t have expected. Not only did I have to combat a language barrier, I also found myself for the first time in a different culture with a different way of life. If there is one thing I’m taking away from all this, it’s a new appreciation for the challenges international journalists face every day, and a desire to do it all again.

Megan Northcote
University: Appalachian State University
Major: Public History and Anthropology
Urbino Experience: After spending a month in Urbino scheduling and rescheduling interviews and photoshoots, crossing my fingers for a strong enough internet connection to send an email, and hiking up hills to get to class, I’ve certainly learned my lesson – being a journalist in a foreign country is not easy, but definitely worth it! While I’ve faced many reporting challenges, there is no better location to grow as a journalist than in the gorgeous Renaissance town of Urbino, where every view of rolling green hillsides and birds circling around castle spires reminds me I’m in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. And now I have an awesome Urbino Now magazine and tons of breathtaking photos to remind me of my once-in-a-lifetime international reporting experience.

Anna Nowokunski
University: Iowa State University
Major: Sociology and Advertising. Journalism Minor.
Urbino Experience: Being in Urbino has changed the way I write and has helped me appreciate another culture in ways I didn’t know were possible. Urbino will always have a special place in my heart and I have made so many great memories and friends from my time in Italy.

Derya Ozturk
University: Bahçeşehir Üniversitesi
Major: Journalism and Public Relations
Urbino Experience: It was an unforgettable experience and period for me. I’ve learned lots of things about journalism from great professors. The most important thing is that I had a chance to learn about two different cultures: Italian and American. I’ve met lots of great people. And, Urbino has fascinating historical buildings and people… It was much more than I have ever imagined. Also I am so grateful for our professors’ patience and understanding. I came here with one luggage bag and I am returning to Turkey with tons of experiences and memories.

Yetis Paycu
University: Bahçeşehir Üniversitesi
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: I participated in this program to gain experience with foreign reporting and immerse myself in (Urbino) İtalian culture. I have absolutely loved learning İtalian language. I have grown fathoms as as a journalist and photographer with my professers. I will never be forgotten it.

Timothy Reuter
University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism and Mass Communication; International Studies
Urbino Experience: I never thought a small-town Iowa kid like myself would end up on the other side of the world in a city that most people never see. But since we’ve been here, we’ve met some amazing people and have reported on some incredible stories. This has truly been one of the most memorable experiences of my college career and I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to be a part of such a remarkable project.

Evan Robinson
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Digital Video & Cinema
Urbino Experience: Urbino has become one of my favorite cities in the whole world. The culture around Urbino is so rich and old that you can’t help get excited when you walk the streets. The people and friends I have met here will change my life, I cannot wait to come back.

Charmaine Shuford
University: Winston-Salem State University
Major: Mass Communications
Urbino Experience: My experience in Urbino was more than I could have ever asked for. Who knew that I would be doing what I love while enjoying a new culture at the same time. The experience and knowledge that I’ve received over the past few weeks have been rewarding and eye opening. I love Urbino!

Timothy Soule
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Digital Video & Cinema
Urbino Experience: When applying for this program I had no idea the level of cultural immersion I would experience here in Italy. I learned valuable journalism skills from the great faculty and through interacting with the residents of Urbino. The reporting and cultural experiences that I received have been a once in a lifetime experience for me.

Elizabeth Steitz
University: Washington & Lee University
Major: Mass Communications (Creative Writing Minor)
Urbino Experience: I came to Urbino hoping to grow as a reporter and a writer. I left with a deeper understanding of Italian culture and multimedia knowledge that will carry me past the realm of journalism.

Stephanie Strickland
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design and Communication Studies
Urbino Experience: My time in Urbino has truly been indescribable. It’s not just the gorgeous city itself, but it’s the local people of this small town that have made the past couple weeks so special to me. Everyone here is so full of life and passionate about what they do; all they want is to share what they know with us, while learning a thing or two from us Americans as well. I will never forget my trip to Urbino, the rich lessons learned and the amazing people I met along the way.

Benjamin Theobald
University: Iowa State Univeristy
Major: Journalism and Mass Communication
Urbino Experience: Urbino has been a life changing experience for me. I’ve learned so much on terms of writing, reporting, and multimedia. Though what really has made me really enjoy the Urbino experience is the people of Urbino. Things like wine and food are wonderful here, but I have met so many interesting and friendly people here in Urbino. Despite myself not being able to speak Italian very well, I am still able to communicate with the people in Urbino and appreciate its diverse culture. I’ve learned that even if you don’t know a language, you can still establish a relationship with them if you try to your best capabilities to communicate.

Azia Toussaint
University: Virginia State University
Major: Mass Communications
Urbino Experience: My experience in Urbino has been a life changing growth process for me. Growing up in the city I never imagined falling in love with a country side room, where everyone knows everyone and the town is so personal. Not to mention hands on training and learning one on one with professions has helped improve my writing and has given me the confidence I needed to start my novel. I appreciate this program and everything that came a long with it.

Laura Weeks
University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design – Journalism
Urbino Experience: First, this month in Urbino can’t be described in a couple of sentences. The past four weeks immersed in Italian culture have helped me to grow both as a journalist and as a person, as an American. Working with interpreters and befriending locals has been the most valuable part of this experience. Memories from Urbino will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Harmony Wright
University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism (Writing Minor)
Urbino Experience: I was able to experience authentic Italian culture while living in Urbino. I ate a lot of good food and met some really interesting people. The program also gave me an understanding of the difficulties of being a journalist in a foreign country and having assignments that made us interact with actual Italian people led me to become further immersed into the culture of the beautiful town of Urbino.

Elizabeth Zabel
University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism & International Studies
Urbino Experience: When I applied for this trip, I knew I was getting into a once in a lifetime opportunity. I was not, however, aware of what kind of opportunity it really was. My experience here in Urbino has been one of a kind. Being forced into an unfamiliar culture and language, and more importantly working in it, has taught me not only lessons on being a professional journalist, but also about aspects of life and culture that I could not have learned anywhere else. My professors and peers have taught me more in a month than I could have learned in my entire college career. It has been challenging, frustrating, and physically and mentally draining, but all the while: so totally worth it.