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Celebrating 36 Years of Study Abroad to Rome
This summer marked the 36th year since Stony Brook University initiated its first study abroad program in Rome, Italy, led by SUNY Distinguished Service Professor Mario Mignone. The program, which has over 2,500 alumni, enables participants to gain firsthand knowledge of contemporary Italy. Picture: Professor Mignone and students in Pompeii during the summer 2016 Rome study abroad The Rome study abroad offers a wide range of courses in Italian language and culture, art history, business, and political science. This year, in conjunction with classes, students explored the city’s artistic and historical landmarks, with day excursions to Venice, Assisi, Pisa, Florence, Capri and Pompeii. Next year, plans include a tour of the Ferrari plant and museum in Modena. “After all,” as Professor Mignone noted, “Italy is not just made of Rome and Milan.” Students are drawn to the cultural experiences that go far beyond the classroom setting. “Everyone who does study abroad in Rome would tell you that it is the experience of a lifetime. I was able to practice speaking the language, but I also learned a lot about the culture both in and out of the classroom,” said Nicole Nolan, a Summer 2016 participant. “This trip prepared me for the future in that it helped me be more adventurous.” For Professor Mignone, starting a summer study abroad program just made sense. “I was aware . . . that not every student had the ability and the means to go abroad for a semester,” said Mignone, citing the number of students who worked to put themselves through college. A shorter summer program (the Rome program runs just four weeks), makes studying abroad more feasible. Today studying aboard has become more common, and Stony Brook, like many other universities, is building its program offerings, accessibility, and affordability. The program to Rome remains extremely popular among undergraduate students, for whom cost is the number one issue. “We have kept the same price for about eight years,” said Professor Mignone. Ms. Nolan agrees that pricing is an issue. “The biggest obstacle for students doing the study abroad program would be the cost.” For the pre-health major, however, “It was a great chance to diversify my experiences. It was worth every penny.” Financial aid and scholarships are available for students. Visit the International Academic Programs website for more information. |
