Ahmet Aslan

Ahmet Aslan

University: Bahcesehir University
Major: New Media
Urbino Experience: It was an unforgettable experience and period for me. The most important thing is that I had a chance to learn about two different cultures: Italian and American. Urbino is very historical places I ever seen before and one of the reasons why I came here is to learn new technique for take a photo as well as video. I’ve felt during the class that our teachers were specialist in their’s field so, I’ve got new perspective from them for multimedia journalism. I strongly believe that in my life something happens once and this experience is one of them. 

Can Aydoğan

Can Aydoğan

University: Bahcesehir University
Major: New Media Journalism
Urbino Experience: It was my first year in college and I came to Urbino without any experience about reporting or photography, but at the end of this program I can say that “I’m an experienced journalist now” and also “I know a little bit Italian language”. In this program I had chance to know Italian culture and to have new American-Italian friends. Moreover I had a chance to learn valuable journalism skills from great faculty. “Grazie mille” for everything. 

Wes Casson

Wes Casson

University: James Madison University
Major: Communication Studies
Urbino Experience: When I first discovered that I was studying abroad in Italy, I knew that it would be an unforgettable experience—everyone says that about study abroad programs, right? However, the biggest shock to me was the truly “organic” ltalian experience that we have had here in Le Marche. Urbino itself is not a big tourist town, and is in fact not big in any sense of the word. Spending a month with complete strangers in a Renaissance city in rural Italy may sound formidable to some, but these strangers have grown to become very close friends and trusted peers. I will always remember the memories that we have packed into this short month, and wish we had time for more. I have grown immensely in this short time, and I can attribute it all to the instructors, my fellow giornalisti, and the loving nature of the Italian people. I will never forget this beautiful town, and hope to stopover again soon so that I can revisit the phrase, “when in Urbino.”  

Olivia Condon

Olivia Condon

University: Mount Royal University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Urbino has got to be the most authentic and charming city in Italy! The people I have met over the last four weeks have made my experience so memorable. I loved the cultural immersion we got through interacting with locals and meeting and interviewing our sources. The Urbino Project has made me more adventurous and creative and my photographic eye has expanded immensely. The instructors offered great support on all aspects of the project and were always willing to work with me to develop my best work. I want to bring everyone I love to Urbino to show them how lucky I am for getting to spend such an exciting month right in the heart of Le Marche. Lasting friendships, memories and photos of Urbino will be close to my heart for years to come.  

Dimitri Daoulas

Dimitri Daoulas

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema Concentration)
Urbino Experience: Describe my experience in Urbino? Where do I start? I guess the first thing I’ll say is that I absolutely fell in love with the city itself. Urbino is like the definition of what an Italian city should be. From the cobblestone streets, to the palace, to all the gelato and pizza places dotting the streets make Urbino one of the best cities in Italy. Also, the fact that there is a prominent liberal arts college in the middle of the city makes the nightlife pretty enjoyable, too. As far as the program goes, again, it was kick ass. Being a video student, working in a group of five other people to produce a half hour long program is an awesome experience and one that I am excited to do again. The people I met in the short time I’ve been here were probably the best part of the trip, though. I’ve made so many new friends that whom will forever have a place in my heart. I had one of the best times of my life with all of them and will never forget my time here. Party on Urbino.  

Katrina Delene

Katrina Delene

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)
Urbino Experience: The Urbino Project has offered me more experience and knowledge than I could have ever dreamed of. I feel that I have become more adventurous, curious, and take charge because of this experience. The people who have helped me succeed on this trip have become lifelong friends and this town a beautiful sanctuary that I hope I will come back to in the future. The beautiful mountains take my breath away every time I see them and the adventures I have been on while exploring this town are good enough to tell to my future children. I wish I could take Urbino back with me, but I know it would be bigger than the 50lb suitcase limit the airlines allow. But no matter what, Urbino will always have a place in my heart.  

Klaire Dixius

Klaire Dixius

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Integrated Advertising & Corporate Communication)
Urbino Experience: Although this is my second visit to Italy, having four weeks to really enjoy the food, culture, and locals of Urbino is a once in a lifetime experience. The ieiMedia program provides such a great way to interview individuals that are prominent members of this community, which is such a rare, eye opening opportunity. Living in an area with basically no other English speakers definitely provides an authentic Italian experience, something you can’t get by visiting major tourist attractions throughout the country. My time here has definitely encouraged me to continue traveling in the future, and to document my adventures along the way. ​ 

Kylie Donohoe

Kylie Donohoe

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media Concentration)
Urbino Experience: I feel like the experience I’ve pulled from Urbino so far has been challenging in the most rewarding way possible. This is so much more than a chance to live in Italy for a month—it’s a chance to actually learn and apply valuable information that will make me feel more equipped for a professional career in media production. Moreover, it all takes place in a fun environment! I can’t wait to go back to the US and share my accomplishments, but I’ll never forget this culturally enriching experience.  

Morgan Doss

Morgan Doss

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Integrated Advertising & Corporate Communication)
Urbino Experience: With never having traveled to Europe before, I was eager to have the opportunity to be immersed in a totally new culture. From the second I stepped off the airplane I knew I was not in America anymore. Although it was intimidating at first not knowing what anyone was saying or what anything meant, studying in Urbino is giving me the true authentic Italian experience I wanted. You walk everywhere, but I don’t mind it because the views are impeccable; mountains upon mountains, green fields that go on for days, or multiple buildings stacked on the sides of mountains, it never gets old. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention trying all the food! Everything is made with fresh, natural ingredients making it all truly delicious. I am going to miss being able to get a hot crepe made right before my eyes, or that scoop of gelato to top the night. Lastly, my Urbino experience wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the amazing friendships I have formed here. They have been the “panna” to my gelato, in other words, made my Urbino experience complete.  

Amanda Ellison

Amanda Ellison

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media Concentration)
Urbino Experience: The Urbino Project has been an eye opening experience for me. I had traveled before coming to Italy, but never without my parents and never to study. I did not know what to expect, but I soon learned that this course would be challenging and interactive on many levels. I have learned more about myself than I ever thought possible on this trip, in regards to my studies and abilities as well as my personal life. Although the road has been bumpy at times in Urbino, I will forever cherish this trip and everything that I have learned from it.  

Victoria Ferris

Victoria Ferris

University: James Madison University
Major: Communication Studies
Urbino Experience: I wanted to be a part of this program to try something new and get out of my comfort zone…and that is exactly what I have done. Journalism in general is a new experience for me, so having my first involvement with it in a foreign country has been twice as eye opening. I have learned so much in such a short amount of time; not only about journalism, but also about interpersonal communication, about the Italian culture, and about myself. There really is no better way to learn about a culture than to completely submerge yourself in it, and I am so glad I took the chance to do so. This experience has taught me to think outside the box and be open to new ideas and customs. The kindness and helpfulness of everyone around me has made studying in Urbino such a unique and unforgettable experience. 

Krista Flentje

Krista Flentje

University: University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
Major: Journalism, Advertising and Media Studies
Urbino Experience: Having the opportunity to take part in the Urbino Project is an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. However, to sum up Urbino as a remarkable experience just won’t do it justice, but I’ll try by best. I immediately fell in love with this famous Renaissance town of soaring towers and cobblestones streets. I spent the past month immersing myself in Italian culture and growing as a journalist in more ways than I could have ever imagined. I am leaving this place, with lasting memories, some great friends and a dangerous obsession for gelato, and for that I am eternally grateful. Thanks to the friends and memories I made along this incredible journey, this quaint town will always hold a special place in my heart. 

Jenna Fries

Jenna Fries

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema Concentration)
Urbino Experience: Coming to Urbino has opened up so many opportunities for me, and given me lifetime experiences that I will carry with me throughout my professional career. I wanted to come on this trip first for the opportunity to expand my portfolio while filming in areas that I have never been to before. I have gained more than I could ever hope, and thank everyone on the Promotional Video team for their hard work, dedication, and understanding of my sarcastic nature.  

Hailey Guyovich

Hailey Guyovich

University: Colorado State University
Major: Communications
Urbino Experience: The Urbino Project has been the experience of a lifetime and I loved every second of it. It challenged me and forced me to open my mind in ways I never thought possible and for that, I am so grateful. Being in Italy has truly opened my eyes to the world and I can’t wait to see what the rest of it has to offer. Urbino is such a welcoming place and after being here for just one short month it has truly begun to feel like home. I feel extremely lucky to have been given this opportunity and I am leaving this experience with more knowledge, experience, perspective, and a greater thirst for life than I had when I arrived. 

Alli Kielsgard

Alli Kielsgard

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media Concentration)
Urbino Experience: My trip to Urbino has been unlike anything I’ve ever experienced, and I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to study abroad here. Not only has it taken me out of my comfort zone, traveling to a foreign country has immersed me into a culture completely different than my own. It feels as though I am learning something new everyday. Particularly, conversing with the locals is a favorite pastime of mine; you really get to know a lot about a culture when you hear it from someone who has truly lived it. Everything about the small town of Urbino is alluring; from the cobblestone streets to the breathtaking view of the surrounding hills to the quaint shops around every corner, Urbino has truly found a place in my heart. 

Begum Kilicci

Begum Kilicci

University: Bahcesehir University
Major: New Media/Journalism
Urbino Experience: Ciao! This is my second experience in terms of studying abroad. Since 2012 I have been an interpreter in the Istanbul ieiMedia project. This is another important experience in my life. Especially I want to thank my family and my instructor Assisant Professor Burçe Çelik who gave me this great opportunity to work in İstanbul’s ieiMedia project as an interpreter and to study in Urbino, Italy. Thanks to ieiMedia Urbino 2014, I have had to learn more about particular history of the Renaissance. I do translations — Spanish to Turkish or English to Turkish. But, as I am a new media/journalism student, I never reported in English before. IeiMedia’s Urbino professors always encouraged me and helped. Thanks to them I have had chance to improve my journalism skills in English. I have also met with very nice people and I love a lot Urbino. There is less stress than Istanbul and I will return to Istanbul with a lot of great memories. I will miss everybody and Italy! 

Meredith Kipp

Meredith Kipp

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Corporate Communication Concentration)
Urbino Experience: From the moment I took my first steps into Urbino, I knew that a month would not be long enough. Urbino is charming and historical and proved to be even more beautiful than I had imagined Italy being. I have been challenged and pushed out of my comfort zone in these past few weeks, but with the help and encouragement from extremely knowledgeable professors and friends, I have risen to the challenges and learned along the way. I have found that you learn the most about yourself when you are in an environment completely different than your own, and Urbino has provided me with that opportunity. Grazie, Urbino for allowing me to grow! 

Cora Letteri

Cora Letteri

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema Concentration) and Political Science
Urbino Experience: I am incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to study abroad, and I could not of chosen a better place to spend four weeks. From the breathtaking views of the Le Marche region to the cobblestone streets, Urbino is full of Italian culture and history. The small town provided us with a true Italian experience. It gave us many opportunities to test our abilities with a new language as well as interact with so many wonderful people. In addition, we had the opportunity to work with so many amazing professors whose help and guidance was invaluable. From the sweaty walks up countless hills to sharing wine with new friends, I will remember my time here for the rest of my life and I cannot wait to come back someday. 

Morgan Lynch

Morgan Lynch

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism Concentration)
Urbino Experience: Studying abroad in Urbino has been a life changing opportunity that has opened my eyes to a different culture. Being fully immersed in the Italian lifestyle is an experience I will never forget. The city is full of history, which the people are immensely proud of, dating back to the Renaissance period. The people are extremely welcoming and friendly. Anywhere I walk in the city, I am sure to find a breathtaking view, whether I am seeking one out or simply walking to class. I enjoyed making friends with my fellow students and working with the amazingly talented faculty. Every person on this trip has a talent that they bring to the table and it definitely shined through on this trip. Everything about this trip, from the stories, to the classes, to the side trips were fun and amazing opportunities.  

Olivia Lynch

Olivia Lynch

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Corporate Communication Concentration)
Urbino Experience: Studying abroad in Italy has been one of the most interesting experiences of my life. The charming city of Urbino has been so welcoming and I have enjoyed the challenges being in another country has brought with it–learning to navigate and communicate using a new language. Writing has always been a passion of mine and the Urbino Project has only helped to intensify this passion further while providing me with a new interest in photography. It has been an honor working with such a talented group of professionals and I have definitely seen myself grow in this short month. I am so lucky to have been given the opportunity to travel around the country and now have a new appreciation for Italian culture as well as our own culture. Once I’m home I will definitely miss my scenic runs through town and biscotto gelato for dessert each night.  

Taylor Main

Taylor Main

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism Concentration)
Urbino Experience: Studying in Urbino has been the most eye opening and rewarding experiences of my life. This trip has allowed me to not only work on an incredible project but also to have the chance to work with some of the best professionals in the reporting, photography, and video fields. As my first trip outside of the United States, it was a bit overwhelming to be thrown into a different cultrure but I have found that is one of the best things about this trip. We are living every day as students in Urbino and going to school here. This country has opened my eyes to a world outside of the US that I knew nothing about. I am so fortunate to have been able to spend a month in a foreign country and gain the cultrual experiences that I will take with me forever. In such a short time, I have met some of the most amazing people, both from the program in Italy and I will always miss everything about this city and country.  

Olivia Martzell

Olivia Martzell

University: Louisiana Scholars’ College
Major: Liberal Arts (Concentration in fine and performing arts focusing on journalism)
Urbino Experience: Having the opportunity to study abroad in the career path I have chosen was one of the most memorable experiences of my life thus far. This trip has provided me with the skills, requirements, and the responsibility a journalist needs in modern times. Being able to visit Europe for the second time was not only extremely beneficial to my life, but it also showed me what it is like to work in a different country and culture; the experience helped show me how much bigger the world is than the United States of America. I believe it is important for all students to study abroad and expand their horizon, especially journalism students who hope to work overseas. I am so grateful and blessed for the time I have had in Urbino, and I am very lucky to have met some wonderful new people, despite being the only student from Louisiana! This trip was not only refreshing for the soul, but it just proved that journalism is the right profession for me. I know without a doubt that I will return to Europe in the next years of my life, and I’ll have to make a stop in the wonderful town of Urbino. 

Leslie McCrea

Leslie McCrea

University: Virginia Tech
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: My time in Urbino really showed me how different the writing process is when two languages are involved. I have always loved talking to new people and getting the chance to write about them, but this was an even more intricate and interesting process. Not just the language barrier, but also the cultural differences proved to be challenging. Living and learning in Urbino sometimes gave me the feeling of being back in Blacksburg – in this small town, everyone knows each other and at some points it feels like I’ve stepped back in time. The traditions of the town and the country as a whole continue to surprise us each day, for both good and bad. Some things are hard to get used to, but some things I know I will miss the second I’m back in America. Urbino is such a welcoming place, and being able to see the ways that the university culture compares to ours at home is so fun.  

Kendall McNamee

Kendall McNamee

University: James Madison University
Major: Communications
Urbino Experience: My time in Urbino has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Living in this charming historic town allowed me to be fully immersed into true Italian culture. Learning to write and take photographs for a published magazine was challenging, but with the continuous guidance of dedicated advisors and professors, I was able to complete my article and grow as a journalist. I could have never asked for a better group of advisors or students to work with while abroad. Everything from the endless amounts of pasta to the relaxed and friendly environment, this has been an interesting cultural experience. I will sincerely miss wandering through the cobblestone streets, seeing the beautiful sunsets outside my dorm window, and the best organic gelato I’ve ever tasted. Four weeks here hardly seems like long enough. 

Mary Menchell

Mary Menchell

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media Concentration)
Urbino Experience: For me, Urbino has given me a chance to get to know Italy on an level different than typical tourism. Working with the translators and interviewing people in the city was definitely my favorite part. Of course the wine, city, and food were all amazing as well. Being fully immersed with little Italian language skills forced me to go outside of my comfort zone. I now feel like I can travel anywhere and get by. Thank you Urbino, for an unforgettable month!  

Carson Monroe

Carson Monroe

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Corporate Communication Concentration)
Urbino Experience: It’s amazing to think how much I’ve experienced and learned in a few short weeks in Urbino. Learning the art of multimedia journalism in a foreign country is something that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Overcoming language barriers, unknown cities, and elusive leads are challenges that have helped me grow as a journalist, as well as a person. The way of life in Italy is completely different from America, but I found myself loving it more and more each day I was here. I am so fortunate to have had this opportunity and to meet some incredibly talented and caring people. 

Erin Mordhorst

Erin Mordhorst

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism Concentration)
Urbino Experience: I have learned an overwhelming amount about journalism and my future profession on this trip, just as I expected I would. What I didn’t expect was to learn so much about myself. This program has taught me the value of communication, both externally and internally. Conquering the language barrier has forced me to step out of my comfort zone and grow as a person. I’m grateful for everyone I was able to share this experience with, especially the professors who were constantly willing to share their expertise in order to help me grow as a journalist. I’ve focused more on appreciating what’s right in front of me and enjoyed living at the slower pace that Italians are accustomed to. I can’t imagine another city that I would rather study abroad in. Urbino is one of the most beautiful and welcoming places I’ve ever been to. It has changed my perspective on the world and made me feel confident in my choice to pursue journalism as a career. 

Cori Noble

Cori Noble

University: University of Northern Iowa
Major: Electronic Media
Urbino Experience: Visiting Urbino was my first time being outside the United States and it definitely won’t be my last. I loved being able to experience a culture that is so different from my own and seeing how the people here live life so much simpler. The workload at first seemed overwhelming, trying to learn a new language photography video and journalism all in one month, but now that it’s over I can see it was definitely worth it. The experience I’ve gained in these areas was a unique one, real life hands on, something you just can’t get sitting in a classroom back home. The little trips we took to the army base, the winery, and Benelli, are memories I will never forget. I will surely miss the beauty of Urbino and the many hills that kept me in shape from overloading on all that italian pizza and pasta. 

Urvi Patel

Urvi Patel

University: James Madison University
Major: Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication
Urbino Experience: Time. It took me until my encounter with Italy to appreciate the importance of time and pace. I’ve learned to slow down and enjoy the culture and people around me, connecting with them rather than sprinting through life in a blur. Urbino is a captivating town, from its rich history to its renaissance architecture to its bursts of green and mountainous views. Surprisingly, tourists are virtually nonexistent here and I wouldn’t have it otherwise. Making my way on the cobblestones everyday, familiarizing myself with the language (attempting to at least), and being adopted by the locals helped make this the growing experience I needed. My mentors, whose positive vibes radiated throughout the program, helped me thrive as a journalist in all aspects. I was pleasantly surprised at how many passionate and driven individuals I connected with – students, interpreters, mentors, locals and all. Though a part of me will always remain within the quaint city walls, I hope to take back with me a little piece of Urbino. One day, I’ll bring that piece back, and experience it all over again, because if this is what falling in love feels like, I’d like to do it again.  

Kelsey Peck

Kelsey Peck

University: James Madison University
Major: Communications
Urbino Experience: Stepping outside of my comfort zone and traveling abroad with a group of strangers sounded very intimidating. While it seemed like it may have been the scariest month of my life, it turned out to be the best. Life happens when you step outside of your comfort zone. Urbino showed me that there is so much more to life than I could have possibly imagined. Between learning the art of journalism, the Italian language and living the Italian culture, I have grown as a person by experiencing this life. I would not trade this once in a lifetime experience for the world and I would recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity to come experience Urbino. 

Chris Raimondi

Chris Raimondi

University: Kennesaw State University
Major: Communications- Journalism and Citizen Media
Urbino Experience: Coming to Urbino was the best decision I ever made. Learning how to function as a journalist in a foreign country while overcoming language barriers and new cultural norms is something that helped me grow in my future profession and life. Aside from that, the city in itself gave me the abroad experience I always wanted and more. From watching World Cup games in the Piazza, to walking up and down the Saturday market, Urbino has left its mark in my life. Italy has always been my dream vacation, but living in Urbino for a month was much more than a vacation. No where else in the country will you find a place so welcoming and charming. I will return to the States knowing more about myself, the world, and a bit of Italian language. Urbino has definitely changed me, and for that alone I would do it all over again. 

Abby Riggleman

Abby Riggleman

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema Concentration
Urbino Experience: Traveling to another country opens your eyes to new cultures, while simultaneously helps you to understand more about your own. Urbino lovingly accepted me within its old stonewalls and showed me a different way to live. The slower paced culture established from tradition and respect taught me to appreciate the roots grown by those before us. Throughout my time here I made amazing friends, helped make a promotional video and learned more about myself in these four weeks than I have in the past year. When I go home I will miss the gelato, pizza, piazza and the new friends I made. But what I will take with me is a new understanding of the Italian culture and memories that will stay with me for a lifetime.  

Summer Roberts

Summer Roberts

University: James Madison University
Major: Communication Studies (Public Relations Concentration)
Urbino Experience: My study abroad trip in Urbino has been one of the most incredible experiences of my life and one that will stay with me forever. The city of Urbino is beautiful between its historical landmarks, welcoming people, breathtaking views, and amazing food. The Urbino project and wonderful instructors have taught me an enormous amount about journalism and photography, considering it is not my field of study. This experience has pushed me out of my comfort zone a countless amount of times between navigating the country and overcoming a language barrier. It has shown me that the world is bigger and brighter than I would have ever imagined. It has reiterated to me that even though not everyone lives the same way, we are all humans. I was given the opportunity of a lifetime and can’t thank all of the people I’ve met enough for making it a great experience. 

Whitney Roberts

Whitney Roberts

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts and Design (Journalism Concentration) and
Communication Studies (Public Relations)
Urbino Experience: My Urbino experience provided me with many obstacles and challenges, but they have allowed me to grow and learn more than I would have ever imagined. I have never been out of the country and I don’t have as much coursework behind me as the others, but the mentors on this trip helped me a great deal and pointed me in the right direction. If anything, my experience abroad has reminded me of how much I love my major and of how lucky I am to have had the opportunity to study this way. I am a strong believer in reaching outside of one’s comfort zone and studying in Urbino was the perfect way for me to do so. I will never forget any of the memories or lessons I have gained here and I will miss Italy very much. 

Susan Rogowski

Susan Rogowski

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)
Urbino Experience: This study abroad trip is truly unique because we really get immersed in the culture here in Urbino. I loved being in a small secluded Italian town where I could truly experience the Italian life style. It’s amazing to be able to say that I have genuine Italian friends. Our project and the program in general really forces us to get out there and experience this town in a very authentic way. Every person involved in this program have been incredible and inspirational to work with. I’m so grateful to have been able to come here and experience this culture with such a delightful group. 

Jazmin Sahagun

Jazmin Sahagun

University: Cal State Fullerton
Major: Communications (Journalism Concentration)
Urbino Experience: I don’t think I’ve ever had so much pizza, pasta, panini, and gelato in a month. The carbs will eventually leave but the memories won’t. The Urbino experience was the most rewarding journey of self discovery that I’ve had within my 20 years of life. The nerves coming onto this trip were skyrocketing and as I entered the trip completely alone without any knowledge of who I was going to be associating myself with for the 4 weeks that I was here I realized, everyone was standing alone, with that, we stood together. Created memories that would last a lifetime, an experience that opened new perspectives, and met people that have impacted my life greatly. I’m not sure if there’s any place better than Urbino to experience the Italian culture. Being a Disney fan myself, I must say, it’s truly a whole new world and I’m glad I’m in it. Urbino, we will meet again.  

Malorie Stone

Malorie Stone

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema Concentration)
Urbino Experience: Being in the historically rich and comforting town of Urbino for four weeks has allowed me to experience Italy in a way I have not been able to before. This program is designed to immerse students in an authentic Italian atmosphere and I have grown in multiple ways because of it. The beauty of Urbino and the surrounding landscape continued to amaze me throughout my time here. The people I have met have equally amazed me with their welcoming arms. The professors and students are so supportive towards one another that it created a strong Urbino family. I will never forget the experiences I have made through this program.  

Jamie Stotski

Jamie Stotski

University: Carleton University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: My four weeks in the beautiful town of Urbino has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Being immersed in the Italian culture and way of life has opened my eyes up to the different possibilities of journalism all around the world. Working with an interpreter to resolve the language barrier was a great opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and try something new. Urbino truly exceeded my expectations and provided me with four weeks of incredible memories. Being able to work one on one with professors and receiving helpful feedback was one of the things I appreciated most about this program. Urbino most definitely has a piece of my heart after these past four amazing weeks.  

Natasha Virdy

Natash Virdy

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media Concentration)
Urbino Experience: Living in Urbino for a month has allowed me to fully immerse myself in the Italian culture and really appreciate the little things in life. I am so grateful to have worked with such gifted and passionate individuals who have encouraged me to challenge myself from academics to the simple aspects of everyday life. Italy has offered me the chance to practice Italian, befriend the locals, and make long-lasting friendships. This experience has made me so confident in going out into the world as a well-rounded media student and visual thinker. I will always remember the picturesque little town of Urbino for the rest of my life.  

Landon Walker

Landon Walker

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media Concentration)
Urbino Experience: Working as a reporter in Urbino has provided me with a long list of moments and images that won’t soon be forgotten. These include: the joy and intimidation of a never ending Italian meal, the deafening cheers of diehard Italian soccer fans, the lifelong friendships made with our interpreters, the time music overcame language barriers when connecting with a local punk band, and the simple pleasure of a much needed espresso break. The experience of capturing and crafting a story here has shown me how rewarding this profession can be, and as I continue in my writing, I will always look back to my time in Urbino. 

J.J. Wilson

J.J. Wilson

University: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Major: News-Editorial Journalism
Urbino Experience: Living in Urbino, Italy for a month has finally given my life the culture I’ve always wanted. My study trip here hasn’t just provided me with new skills in and knowledge of photography, magazine writing and Italian culture, but it’s also given a chance to see the world outside of the United States. Before, the most exotic place I’d ever been was Texas or California. An “exciting” trip was to Northern Wisconsin, which isn’t exactly immersive. In Urbino, I’ve been happily forced to adapt to an entirely foreign culture and spent time with people unlike any I’ve ever met before. Even in our own group, I’m only one of two from the Midwest, and that’s exposed me to different lifestyles inside the U.S. Thanks to the friendships made and the experiences gained in Urbino, I’ll return to Illinois understanding myself better than ever before, both as a journalist and as a person.