Mete Aker

Mete Aker

University: Bahcesehir University
Major: New Media
Urbino Experience: Urbino was a totally great experience for me. Meeting people who live in Urbino and learning about their culture was really great. Similarly, meeting Americans and learning their culture is another thing I have to mention. Not only did I explore this beautiful Renaissance town, but also I developed my journalism skills. There were lots of chances to develop my multimedia journalism skills. Primarily, I want to thank my instructor, associate professor Burçe Çelik, for giving me the chance to studying in Urbino. Furthermore, I want to thank all the professors in the program for helping me develop my journalism skills and teaching me how to report in English. Grazie! 

Nicole Barattino

Nicole Barattino

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: I feel like I’m in a magical town when I’m in Urbino. The renaissance setting with the prominence of art culture in this town gives it a magical feel. The abundant amount of art and history here with the lack of tourism, has given me a real authentic experience of understanding the culture. The architecture gives the town a classical, romantic feel and the landscape views surrounding Urbino allow you to see the beautiful, green hills and mountains for miles. The people of Urbino are passionate about making the most out of our lives here on Earth and they greet all visitors with open arms. Since Italians place so much emphasis on making life as pleasurable as possible, their food is of course amazing. There is nothing better than eating Italian food in Italy, as it is so delicious I cannot explain it in words. The wine is practically free, to my liking, and such a prominent part of their culture. The professors on this trip are so talented and experienced and therefore, I’m so grateful to be taught by them. I’m in good company with my classmates, as we’ve all bonded taking in this once in a lifetime experience. My videography skills have definitely improved from class, and it has been such a fun time getting to interview a local and helping my classmates out on their projects. Being immersed into a country with different customs and a language barrier with almost everyone was quite a culture shock, mostly because the majority of people here don’t speak English. Learning to interact with people who don’t speak your language, as well as feeling like a foreigner has been an eye opening experience that has helped me become more aware of the world around me.  

Courtney Bochicchio

Courtney Bochicchio

University: James Madison University
Major: Communications
Urbino Experience: Having the opportunity to study in such an authentic and beautiful town has been such a rewarding experience for me. The Urbino program has allowed me to gain new skills in photography and journalism, which I can now take with me for the rest of my life. I have met so many wonderful people on this trip and feel so grateful to have shared these memories with them.  

Christina Botticchio

Christina Botticchio

University: Ryerson University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: The stories that lie within these hills are fascinating. The people that walk these streets are inspiring. Having the privilege to hear and tell those stories for the past month was an experience like no other. The second you step foot into Urbino, you are immersed into the culture. What was somewhat intimidating and nerve-wracking at first is now another big step in my life as a journalist. Each day has pushed me a little bit farther, forcing me to step out of my comfort zone and try something new. This experience has taught me more about myself and what I am capable of. It has helped me grow and become more confident as an individual and a journalist. The experience goes by so quickly that you almost forget to stop and take a look at what you’re doing. To see how much you’ve accomplished in a town so far and so different from your own. It is so easy to get lost in the view of the mountains and the stories of the people. I think that was the best part of this trip­–getting lost in the beauty of it all. 

Richie Bozek

Richie Bozek

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect from my time in Italy. I was excited, but it actually didn’t even really hit me that I would be living out of the country for the month until I was driving to the airport. Whatever expectations I did have though, they were blown away. In short, my Urbino experience was incredible. I got to take part in activities that I couldn’t have done anywhere else, travel to new places, learn new skills, face new challenges and meet people I never would have met if it wasn’t for Urbino. To quote rapper Big Sean, way up I feel blessed. I’m grateful for my time spent in “LItaly” and everything I have taken away from the trip will always remain close to me.  

Deanna Brigandi

Deanna Brigandi

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Integrated Advertising & Corporate Communication)
Urbino Experience: The Urbino experience has been eye opening and life changing. It has made me more independent and confident in myself and my career path. I am grateful for all of the people I have met and the adventures we have taken together. I have fallen in love with the views, the food, and the people of Urbino, but maybe not the hills. This experience has made me wish to see the world and experience the culture of other people. I would not change a single thing about this trip, except the breakfast….i’m sick of croissants, I need bacon. 

Alysia Burdi

Alysia Burdi

University: Ryerson University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: You can tour many of the famous architectures and landscapes of Italy, but to become a part of the culture by learning their trades and their stories is much more than a typical tourist photo can ever explain. Becoming a journalism exchange student in Urbino, Italy has forced me to test my own boundaries in language and cultural barriers. Although I took some Italian words and traditions with me from back home, nothing compares to the experience of meeting locals and learning their story in a place where their lives and stories of the past are combined. I have walked these streets like they are now my own. I have made new friends; new memories and I carry more knowledge with me now than when I first arrived. Nestled between the historic walls and aromas of fresh foods and wines, I am one step closer to understanding how curious a journalist might actually become when foreign barriers force you to start from scratch.  

Anita Chomenko

Anita Chomenko

University: Rider University
Major: Digital Media (Video Production)
Urbino Experience: The most memorable part of my four weeks in Urbino was having the opportunity to work on a story that I would never have the chance to do back home in Pennsylvania. Many of the shops here in Urbino have artisans who are building, sculpting and creating; The Le Marche region has so many distinct characters. It’s incredible to be able to work one on one with these characters to create a story that I’m proud to bring back home with me. Urbino is a beautiful city that is the perfect setting to work on your photography, videography and writing techniques. I’ve traveled abroad several times before, Italy included, but trust me when I say there’s just no place like Urbino.  

Isabella Ciano

Isabella Ciano

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)
Urbino Experience: Living and working in Urbino has been an experience I will never forget. Being able to work with the dedicated mentors and friendly interpreters taught me skills I will be able to take with me and use for the rest of my life. Being in a different country and learning to live in a place with a different culture and language has been both rewarding and challenging. I’ve also enjoyed meeting and working with all the other students on this trip. I know that some of the friendships I’ve made here will be ones that last for a lifetime. 

Rachel Dale

Rachel Dale

University: Carleton University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Being one of three Canadians in the program, I was pretty much the butt of all jokes for saying things like ‘washroom’ or ‘grade five’ instead of ‘fifth grade’. If there was only one thing I learned from this program, it is that Canadians truly do have accents. Realistically, this program taught me a lot more than that. I never had the type of journalistic experience that this program gave me, and I think this was the best place to get it. Though I kept getting Italian (which I can’t speak) confused with French (which I do), I managed to pull through in a way I never imagined I could. I learned how to handle journalism in a foreign country, how Canadian I am, and that I am capable of more than I expected. As a whole, I would have to say the time in Urbino was unforgettable, eh? 

Caroline Davis

Caroline Davis

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)/Graphic Design
Urbino Experience: Living for a month in the charming town of Urbino, Italy has been more than a simple study abroad trip. During this unforgettable life experience, I have been challenged and pushed out of my comfort zone which has helped me grow as a student and individual. The breathtaking views, kind people, and amazing food have all impacted me in a way that I will never forget. This experience has made me realize you learn a lot about yourself and society as a whole when you are put in an environment completely different from your own. I want to thank each individual who I have met throughout this experience for making it better than I ever could have imagined! 

Nathaniel Delehoy

Nathaniel Delehoy

University: Colorado State University
Major: Journalism and Media Communications
Urbino Experience: Being in Urbino has been a great experience, from the landscape to the people. Beautiful hills and mountains surround a picturesque city filled with amazing stonework, the townsfolk have all been friendly, and attempts at communication have made the language barrier a nonentity. I’m glad for the chance to work with these professors and translators, and to explore Urbino with the other students. I could do without the long walks between the dorms and the classroom, but it’s a small price to pay for all you get to see on the way. While I may not gush as much as the other students, I do believe that if you get the opportunity to be a part of this program, you should take it. 

Britanny Dierken

Brittany Dierken

University: Arizona State University
Major: Journalism and Public Relations
Urbino Experience: Traveling to Urbino, Italy was my first time being abroad and immersed in a completely different culture. Urbino is a small Renaissance town, but booming with culture and the friendliest people. Through my story, I was able to see Italy from the homes of Italian families. The pasta dishes and wine are amazing and make sure to bring tennis shoes because everything is a hike! This program has definitely pushed me outside my comfort zone, but I have grown so much in my work as a reporter and as a person.  

Sarah Eames

Sarah Eames

University: State University of New York at New Paltz
Major: Journalism and Political Science
Urbino Experience: How do you capture an adventure? You can frame it nicely, hidden behind the safety of your telephoto lens. Make sure the background is thrown out of focus, the subject in focus; all limbs present and accounted for. You can write a pleasant anecdote from the comfort of your desk, telling the heartwarming story of a farmer boy who grew up to run for mayor. You can set up your tripod and edit to that rhythm: wide, medium, close. If you look close enough, I hope that you find yourself, lost in your own adventures. From stilts races to wine tours, shotgun factories to fashion shows; from feasts of the patron saint to green beans and mozzarella balls at Tridente; from finding the best gelato in town to hunting down a rogue laptop in Rome. From spending the night on the beach in Rimini, at the train station in Pesaro, on a the floor of a hotel room in Florence, this trip has been nothing short of an adventure. I hope that you turn around and find yourself in someone else’s adventure too — someone from Italy, someone from Morocco, from Macedonia. Someone from Virginia, someone from Peru. Someone from Iowa, someone from Thailand. Someone from Jersey, from Turkey. From Colorado, from Canada. Someone from Louisiana or Indiana, from Pennsylvania or Arizona. Someone from your own home state. Somewhere in the underground pubs and back alley cafés, in the million miles of plane rides and train rides, to Moscow and to Milan, I hope you find your adventure. “Buy the ticket, take the ride.” I did.
 

Thomas Fitzpatrick

Thomas Fitzpatrick

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism) and Communication Studies (Public Relations)
Urbino Experience: Urbino is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. It is like living in some fairy tale.It is a wonderful place; it has the hometown feeling you will miss about your hometown. Everyone is always greeting each other; eventually the locals start to greet you. It may seem like an old town, but it is actually pretty lively! Go out and explore the town as soon as possible! The people on the trip with you will also become some of your best friends if you give the effort to make them your best friends. So many of us became very close with each other even though we didn’t know each other before the trip. This is an unforgettable experience. My one piece of advice: live in the here and now. 

Kendall Gilman

Kendall Gilman

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)
Urbino Experience: Spending four weeks in Urbino has been a phenomenal experience. I find myself walking down the cobblestone hills, in awe of my surroundings as people pass by, laughing and talking and living their lives. This is the most photogenic place that I’ve ever been in, yet I still feel as though it’s impossible to capture the beauty in this town through a lens. The very air breathes history and sentiment that exceeds all expectation. Not only have we been exposed to valuable journalistic experience, we have also spent an extended amount of time living, breathing, and learning this different culture and all that it holds. That, for me, is the most valuable part of working on the Urbino Project. We have lived and breathed this place and I will carry this enriching experience with me for the rest of my life. Thanks, Urbino, for immersing me in the culture of Italy, a place that I definitely do not want to leave. 

Michele Goad

Michele Goad

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)
Urbino Experience: My experience in Urbino has far surpassed the expectations I had for studying abroad. It’s taught me to step outside of my comfort zone, appreciate the culture of another country, make friends from all over the world and strengthen my skills in photography, writing and video. No amount of time spent here could ever be enough, but I am so grateful I was able to spend four weeks in this beautiful town.  

Julianna Graham

Julianna Graham

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)
Urbino Experience: Coming into this program I had no idea what to expect, but I soon realized that I was getting more than I bargained for. The city itself has offered beautiful sites, new people, and worthwhile experiences. The project we are doing has given me lots of hurdles from language barriers to learn in new equipment, but it has made me stronger in my abilities to overcome challenges and accomplish goals. So happy to have this be my first experience abroad! 

Yusuf Ince

Yusuf Ince

University: Bahcesehir University
Major: New Media
Urbino Experience: As well as unforgettable friendships, I have learned so many things from here. Firstly, I have to thank my professor, Burçe Çelik who gave me this opportunity. This is my first experience abroad and I will come back to Istanbul with countless memories, life experience and experimentation with expert journalism instructors. Living the city where you can see history every step you take provides you to learn different cultures with various aspects. As a freshman, this program will be very useful for my next semesters. I will even miss the uphill street goes to Raffaello Sculpture. Teşekkürler! Thank you! Grazie! 

Devon Jefferson

Devon Jefferson

University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism Mass Communications
Urbino Experience: The moment I first set foot on the aged brick streets of Via Mazzini, I felt the coming of an epiphany. From that moment on up to this point, nearing the end of our journey, I have consistently been inspired, motivated, and challenged to do things bigger than myself. I feel as though I have taken something from everything I have enjoyed in my short time here — the scenery, the food, the culture, the love, the atmosphere — everything has had an exceptional affect on me. I can sincerely say that my experience here in Urbino has significantly added an element to the core of my being that will be forever enriching and remembered in my life. This has truly been the experience of a lifetime, and added that the program ieiMedia has here has helped fine tune my journalistic skills, this an experience that I will continue to use and revisit for the entirety of this lifetime.  

Rachel Killmeyer

Rachel Killmeyer

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Integrated Advertising & Corporate Communication)
Urbino Experience: How do I even begin to describe my Urbino experience? Living in this beautiful renaissance city for 4 weeks has changed my life. Being on this trip I have been able to experience and learn things I could never have imagined. IEI Media has taken me out of my english speaking comfort zone and shown me the beauty of communicating with people from other cultures. Everyone in Urbino is so welcoming and friendly; I have been invited into people’s homes, shown around town, and given quite a few free snacks (Thanks Giovani). Besides the beautiful city and wonderful professors the part of this trip that has really helped me grow as a person are the people I am with everyday. My classmates are amazing people who have taught me so much about media and myself. I am so thankful to have met all of these crazy chickens and cannot wait until we are together again.  

Kaitlin Kling

Kaitlin Kling

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)
Urbino Experience: Coming to Urbino has been an amazing experience. I’ve gained a new perspective on the world and I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture. Besides having made some amazing friends, I’ve learned to be more independent, how to problem solve in a foreign language, and I have learned a great deal about journalism, photography, and video production. In these past few weeks I have learned a great deal about myself and I would not trade this experience for anything.  

Abbie Latterell

Abbie Latterell

University: Iowa State University
Major: Public Relations & Communication Studies
Urbino Experience: My Urbino experience has taught me more about Italian culture, language, and myself then I could have ever imagined. Whether it is exploring new side streets of Urbino or learning how to take the train to Venice, all of my experiences on this trip have pushed me out of my comfort zone. Lastly Urbino has brought me countless friendships and memories that I will forever be grateful for! 

Rebecca Malzahn

Rebecca Malzahn

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema and Communication Studies (Public Relations)
Urbino Experience: Everyone says studying abroad changes you for good, but they never tell you how. Reflecting on my time in Urbino, I understand it now. I have been changed by all of the hard work I have done, prestigious professors that have taught me, talented classmates I have worked with, priceless friendships I have gained, accepting locals I have met, and steep, narrow streets I have walked. Being immersed in the culture of Urbino is unlike anything else. With minimal tourists roaming the streets, I have been able to gain a full outsider perspective on the Italian culture here. It’s eye opening to see first-hand how this culture lives and the rich history behind it. As an outsider, I have been able to take away a deeper understanding and appreciation of this culture and all cultures. I’ve learned more than I could have imagined and can say that I have been changed for the better.  

Ashley Manske

Ashley Manske

University: Iowa State University
Major: Advertising
Urbino Experience: Studying abroad in Urbino has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I have learned so much about all of the various aspects of multimedia, while also growing as a person. Experiencing real Italian culture through the old city of Urbino is something I will never forget. The cobblestone streets and breathtaking countryside views will stick with me forever. All of the people I’ve met here have been so welcoming, which made Urbino feel like home from the moment we arrived. One thing I never could quite get used to was all of the steep hills Urbino had to offer, but that didn’t keep me from walking everywhere to get gelato. As challenging as this program was, I am so appreciative for what it has taught me. 

Rachel Mendelson

Rachel Mendelson

University: James Madison University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: My four weeks in Urbino have been full of memories that I’ll never forget. I’ve grown as a journalist and photographer while working with experienced, dedicated mentors. I got to experience a culture that is beautifully different from the one I am used to and I learned to appreciate that. Working with the interpreters taught me a valuable skill and also made the language barrier a little less scary. During the Urbino program I’ve made bonds and memories with friends who I already miss and can’t wait to see again. Urbino treated us well and the month went by way too fast. 

Abigail Moore

Abigail Moore

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: Studying abroad in Urbino has been an absolutely unforgettable experience. I have learned so much not only about videography, but also about the Italian people and their wonderful way of life. This experience has really pushed me to travel outside of my comfort zone, especially with the challenge of navigating unfamiliar streets and communicating in an unfamiliar language, but it has undeniably made me a more confident journalist and scholar. It has been a great honor to work along side such talented students from all over the world, and an even greater honor to learn from some from some of the most incredible instructors (special shout out to my main man Rusty). Though the program only lasts four weeks, I am leaving Urbino with new knowledge, new experiences, and most importantly new friendships that will last me a lifetime.  

Alyssa Mursch

Alyssa Mursch

University: Wilkes University
Major: Communications (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: This experience has shown me that life begins at the end of your comfort zone. The thought of traveling to a foreign country for a month without knowing anyone terrified me, and it ended up being more than I ever could have hoped for. Not only has it provided me with a newfound independence and helped me gain skills that will make me better equipped for my future career, but it has also introduced me to lifelong friends that already feel like family. The Urbino project has done so much more than enhance my journalism skills, as it allowed me to be completely immersed in another culture and gave me the opportunity to create a home out of a beautiful town tucked in the valleys of southern Italy. Every day was a new adventure and one I will never forget, from the innovative ways we worked around the language barrier, to the daily trudging up the steep hills and every breathtaking view along the way, to all the late night gelato runs and Italian sunsets; in the end every moment came together to create what I consider to be the greatest experience of my life, and one I wouldn’t trade for anything.  

Manuel Orbegozo

Manuel Orbegozo

University: Humboldt State University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: I was very honored to be the first student to receive the James Foley scholarship. With such weight and responsibility on my shoulders, I knew I had to work very hard to succeed in the program. Thankfully, the professors and mentors I worked with closely taught me how to approach reporting and photojournalism in more effective and innovate ways. Thanks to their trust in me, I was able to not only contribute to our magazine, but also to a local newspaper. Meeting other students in the program who were very passionate about their stories kept me motivated throughout the program. These four weeks have marked me and I will never forget my time here, nor the people who made this trip memorable. 

Dylan Orth

Dylan Orth

University: Colorado State University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Traveling has always been a passion of mine. You learn to expect the unexpected, and to try and not let your preconceptions get in the way of learning something new about the world. Living in Urbino for the last 3 weeks with all of the great people I have met only proved this to be even more true. I could never have imagined the experiences I would have, what I would learn about journalism, the new things I would try and how it would open my eyes to the world around me. Urbino is not only beautiful from an architectural and aesthetic standpoint, but shows the beauty and friendliness of Italians. I have never felt so welcomed in another culture, especially one where I make a fool out of myself whenever I attempt to speak the language. I am not only going to miss the people I’ve met being here, but Urbino itself, for feeling like a home to me even if I only have been here less than a month.  

Olivia Parker

Olivia Parker

University: American University
Major: Undecided
Urbino Experience: When I first got to Urbino I had just graduated high school with little direction to what I wanted to do. I had no major, no friends going on the trip, and I wasn’t even eighteen yet. Living here clarified my passion to travel-but in an unexpected way. Urbino allowed me to see everyday life in Italy, not just the way you see Italy in the movies or postcards (as much as it looks like one). The people of Urbino treated us more like long-lost relatives- a sense of distance but paired with an unmistakable familiarity-than tourists. The first night we went out to town felt more like coming home than leaving it, and I’m extremely grateful as well as lucky to have been able to call this place home for four weeks. If the people who live here shaped my perception on travel and myself then the teachers we worked with gave me a path to what I want to study. Interacting with students with the same interests and the extremely reputable faculty helped me decide what direction I want to follow in college and what I want my life to be like afterwards, one with question and adventure. 

Charlie Phillips

Charlie Phillips

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: I have experienced so much in Urbino that I dread having to recount it all to my friends and family. But in all seriousness the experience of living in Urbino will leave an indelible mark on my personality, truly immersing myself in another culture has granted me a new perspective on my life at home. This is to say nothing of all the valuable skills I’ve picked up by listening to my incomparable professors. I will always remember the amazing friends I’ve made and all the cool things I’ve done in my too-short time here. Gelato withdrawal is going to be pretty rough though. 

Katie Potter

Katie Potter

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: A year ago, I didn’t realize how much this trip would affect me on a personal level. The countryside of the Le Marche region is impossible to ignore, and impossible not to enjoy. In only a month, I’ve grown to love Urbino and all her natural Italian beauty. The citizens of Urbino are all so gracious, friendly, and full of grand stories. I’m so so blessed to have had this opportunity to meet and speak with them. (With some difficulty, but so worth the effort!) Also, this trip wouldn’t be the same without the truly talented students that joined me on this ride. Having the ability to travel around Italy on free weekends was an adventure, and I’m lucky our group was spontaneous and fun! Urbino 2015 taught me a lot about how much one can learn about themselves through others, American or otherwise! I have become a better journalist, a better woman, and hopefully a more worldly person. I can’t thank all those involved enough!  

Gerardo Simonetto

Gerardo Simonetto

University: Thammsat University Rangsit
Major: The Innovative Digital Design program (IDD)
Urbino Experience: It’s certainly an experience that I cannot forget, blowing all expectations that I had coming in to the program. I learned so much more than just the basics of journalism and how to keep up with the tight schedule of this course. Coming from Thailand, I’m surprised to see how cultures are so different from two different countries; Italy and America. Its great how the course tries to expose us to other Italian culture like having Italian classes everyday or taking us other locations to try wine or see a gun factory and showing well done Italian films. Coming to this program I had no experience in writing journalism, and I’m very happy to say that the professors did a great job keeping their classes even for everyone, allowing everyone to catch up or give them extra help when it’s needed. This program has helped me open my eyes to a new medium and all sorts of different possibilities that I would like to try and apply these skills once I get back to Thailand. 

Stephanie Smith

Stephanie Smith

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Converged Media)
Urbino Experience: I cannot even begin to express how fortunate I feel to have been given the opportunity to study abroad in Urbino, Italy. Though Urbino is home to some of the steepest hills I have ever had to conquer, it is also home to some of the most friendly people I have ever met, the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen, and the most delicious food (and gelato!) I have ever eaten. It has felt like home for the last four weeks, and I could not imagine studying abroad anywhere else. As I begin to look ahead towards a future career, I am thankful to all the professors who have taught me so much about the field of Journalism – from taking the perfect photo, to writing an intriguing lede, to editing a video just right. While I have certainly learned a lot about my academic passions, I have also learned a lot about myself. Meeting some of the most amazing people, traveling all throughout Italy, and overcoming a difficult language barrier has allowed me to grow as a person in so many ways. I will forever miss my time in Urbino, but the friends made, the experiences had, and the lessons learned will never be forgotten. Thank you to everyone who made this trip possible – it has truly been the best time of my life! 

Jake Troy

Jake Troy

University: Rider University
Major: Communications
Urbino Experience: This experience has been a blast, and has been made possible through the encouragement and endorsement of my loving family, especially my mother, father, grandmother and aunt. Having the opportunity to travel to Italy and be with talented students was both inspiring and challenging. Everyone has brought an interesting perspective to my trip, and I feel truly blessed to have shared it with the faculty and students. No matter how esteemed some of these people are, they have all welcomed me with a warm embrace and that made a difference. It may be the last time that I’ll be in Europe or outside of the country for that matter in a while. So with this statement I want to invite anyone curious about this trip to take it, because there is just something magical about Urbino. 

Tessa Yannone

Tessa Yannone

University: Indiana University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Studying abroad was never the first thing on my to-do list going into college. I was scared of the thought of traveling half way across the world to a place I didn’t know with people who were only strangers, but deciding to come to Urbino has completely changed my perspective and outlook on life. This program is unlike any other, and I am fortunate to have had the opportunity. Reporting internationally threw me into something completely different and allowed me to meet so many amazing people. The amount of experience, knowledge, and friendships I have gained has been immeasurable and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I am walking away from Urbino with life-long friends both abroad and from the states and with skills and experiences that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.  

Ryan Young

Ryan Young

University: Iowa State University
Major: Journalism & Mass Communication; Marketing
Urbino Experience: Traveling to Urbino was the perfect study abroad experience. Over the four short weeks, we were completely thrown into true Italian culture. Having to overcome the language barrier and cultural norms as a reporter is a tough task, but this program really showed me how to do that and still report on a story well. I loved the fact that Urbino isn’t a big tourist town and that it still stays true to traditional Italian culture. This forced me to adapt to a different lifestyle that I wasn’t expecting and to fully experience life in a different country. Being sent into a small Italian town with 40 or so strangers can seem intimidating at first, but I won’t ever forget the experiences I had with people I now consider great friends. I am so grateful to have been able to take part in this incredible program.