For Immediate Release

June 25, 2009

Faculty-led Summer Trip Takes Students to Italy

Learning to enjoy the journey was an important lesson for twenty-three Nebraska Wesleyan students during a first-ever trip to Florence, Italy. While the three weeks were packed with museum tours, classes, day trips and gelato stops; students were asked to slow down and “Experience the Culture of Florence” that surrounded them.

Led by Professor of Communication Dr. Rachel Pokora, Professor of Art History Dr. Donald Paoletta, and Associate Professor of Music Jana Holzmeier, students earned credit for courses of study exploring Florentine music, communication and art. “Students directly experienced Italian culture and interacted with Italians and others living in Florence,” said Dr. Pokora.

Nebraska Wesleyan worked through CAPA International Education Organization, which provided NWU students a classroom meeting location, access to computers and housing in local apartments. Each discipline held classes individually, but the rich history of the city provided many opportunities for collaboration including a walking tour of Florence led by Dr. Paoletta and attending a performance of La Traviata organized by Dr. Holzmeier.

“Florence was a great location for studying, visiting museums and cathedrals, and immersing ourselves in the culture,” said junior Mishayla Richardson. Public transportation, language barriers and Vespa scooters became a part of daily life for the students.

For some, Florence was their first experience outside of the United States. This meant uncertainty for many students who didn’t know what to expect away from home. “This trip was my first time abroad and I really saw how big the world is,” said junior Rachel Andersen.

All three faculty advisors traveling with the group had spent time in Florence previously. Their expertise was of particular value to students when trying to navigate the city. “The knowledge and insight we gained about the culture of Florence was put to the test immediately after we left the confines of the classroom walls,” said senior Stefanie Skrdla.

Florence kept students busy during the week, but there was opportunity to travel elsewhere in Italy during the weekend. Popular destinations for many students were Piza, Venice, Cinque Terre, Lucca, Rome, Fiesole, Siena and San Gimignano. “My favorite part of the trip was bike riding in Lucca on the ramparts of the old city. It was nice to see the countryside in a smaller town and relax,” said Andersen.

The journey led to a cultural experience unlike any other. For some students, a romance began with international travel. “I hope students developed a deeper understanding of their own culture through learning about Florentine culture and learn to question the status quo; learn to approach intercultural experiences in and outside of the United States with an open mind and ask questions,” said Dr. Rachel Pokora.

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