Reporters

Gabrielle Benedetti
Gabrielle Benedetti
Gabrielle Benedetti

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: Words cannot describe how I feel about the town of Urbino and about Italy as a whole. This place has become our home away from home, and I am forever thankful for each and every memory I have made here. If I had to describe Urbino in one word it would be blissful. The friendliness of the people and the bright light of this town is incomparable to anywhere else I have ever been. The friends I’ve made, the places I’ve traveled to, and the knowledge I’ve acquired in such little time is something I will hold on to forever. This program has allowed me to grow as a writer, a photographer, and a videographer, and has helped me love and appreciate Italian culture and history. I am beyond grateful for this experience and for the people, knowledge, and happiness it has brought me.

 

Michael Blair
Michael Blair
Michael Blair

University: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Major: Integrated Studies (Communication & Business Administration)
Urbino Experience: Prior to my departure for Italy, I hadn’t left the country, much less the southeastern United States. People always talk about the culture shock of being somewhere new, but from the moment I stepped off the plane, it’s been nothing but a positive, once in a lifetime experience. Urbino is absolutely beautiful and offers a very fun, lively culture. Not only has it been a very fun experience, but it is a very engaging learning environment as well. With knowledgeable professors and friendly interpreters, it creates a learning experience unlike any other in my lifetime. Working with interpreters on stories is one of the most fun, while challenging, storytelling adventures I’ve ever had. As the end of the trip approaches, I’m already sad about having to leave. But every bit of this trip has been nothing short of amazing. The story that I’ll take home with me, in text, photos and video, is my favorite I’ve ever been a part of. Thankful doesn’t even come close to how I feel about this opportunity!

 

Ken Bradley
Kenneth Bradley
Kenneth Bradley

University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Unparalleled. If asked to use one word to describe my time here in Urbino that is easily the first word that comes to mind. From the calm countryside views to the bustling city streets, Urbino has opened my eyes to a completely new culture and way of life. During my four weeks, I have met many people and made new friends from different parts of the world. This time has proven to me the true good nature of people. All were friendly and willing to help even through a semi-difficult language barrier. As this was my first time in Italy and outside of the United States, there are no negatives I can state. I had the pleasure of watching Italian movies made before I was born, visiting archaeological museums with artifacts from 2000 years ago, going on a wine tour and learning the extensive process of how one bottle is made. I also toured the Ducale Palace and viewed some artwork from renaissance times. The childhood home of Rafael treated me well and I will be forever grateful for my time in Urbino.

 

Haley Brandt
Haley Brandt
Haley Brandt

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: Urbino is nothing short of inspiring. It is quiet but lively, and everywhere you turn there is something new happening. Whether its dancing with strangers, saying yes to new foods, or going to a spontaneous concert in the piazza, the energy of this town has breathed a new life into me that I am going to carry for a long time. This experience has given me the courage to try new things and connect with people from completely different cultures. It has taught me to say yes more often, to open myself up. To appreciate the simplicity of sitting outside at a caffè and watching the people pass. Because to me, taking in the little pleasures of life is what Urbino is all about.

 

Keon Broadnax
Keon Broadnax
Keon Broadnax

University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism & Media Communication
Urbino Experience: Urbino has been a once in a lifetime. It has been one of my all time favorite trips. This trip gave me more of an insight into the true culture of Italy. Urbino was unlike any other touristic city. It had its sites to see but it offered so much more than just buildings. Urbino has offered knowledge, celebrations, food and parades. Along with opening my eyes to the culture, this experience has opened my journalistic career as well. Being able to go through what it is like to communicate through a translator was exciting. Yet not only was I expanded in language and culture, but I also learned the art of taking photos. It has been something that has intrigued me, but being able to learn it in a different and beautiful country added so much more to the experience. This trip will be something that I will never forget. 

 

Sarah Brown
Sarah Brown
Sarah Brown

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: Urbino is a place unlike any other. In just four weeks, I have learned more about the Italian culture than I could have ever imagined. The people of Urbino always greet you with warm welcoming smiles and the small Italian town makes Urbino feel like a home away from home. The locals are always eager to help in every way they can, even with the language barrier between English and Italian. I have met so many extraordinary people on this trip with whom I’ve had the pleasure to work with and learn from. Through my experiences in the Urbino program, I have grown as a writer, photographer, video journalist, and ultimately as a person.

 

Brooke Buchan
Brooke Buchan
Brooke Buchan

University: Colorado State University
Major: Journalism & Media Communication
Urbino Experience: Living in Urbino was my first international travel experience, and decisively an experience that made me sure it won’t be my last. Though it is a 15th century Renaissance city, living here was not like going back in time: it was like being in a new time. Each morning, Italian men and women chatted in groups in front of cafes and bars, indulging in espresso shots and morning pastries among staggering, stone-walled streets. Consistent and hearty “Ciaos!” and “Buongiornos!” rang out each day throughout the city. The Piazza Della Reppublica of Urbino became our classroom. Here, we trained our eyes to search for photographs of distinguishing moments and character. Here we stumbled through practicing our Italian to shop keepers and bar tenders. Here we purchased daily cappuccinos and cioccolato fondente gelato, and observed the city residents as they observed us. Each day I wandered the skinny, steep streets and fell quickly in love. It is humbling to live intimately among another culture, and rewarding to make connections and be understood across the bridge of differences. I hope to return some day and heave my way back up the stone hills to be reunited with this prideful and magical place. The only thing left to say is it was over too soon.

 

Kyra Butterworth
Kyra Butterworth
Kyra Butterworth

University: Ryerson University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: After wanting to go to Italy since I was a child, coming to Urbino has been the best introduction to this country that I could have possibly had. I’ve loved everything about this little renaissance town, from the rich history and gorgeous architecture, to the vibrant nightlife and quirky locals. While I won’t miss sweating through my clothes climbing Urbino’s hills to get to class every day, the lack of cars is so refreshing after going to school in Toronto. I leave this program feeling more confident in my abilities as a reporter, and as a writer. I am finally comfortable with a camera that I’ve had for years, but didn’t really know how to use until now. All the language barriers and roadblocks that I have encountered here—and my ability to overcome them—has made me a better journalist. I am leaving Italy with a newfound interest in art history, and more motivation than ever before to learn the Italian language. I plan to be fluent by the time I come back. And I will be back.

 

Amanda Chin
Amanda Chin
Amanda Chin

University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: This experience in Urbino has been something that I will never forget. I never expected to form such strong relationships with the locals around the town. The bond that I formed with the students and the expertise that I received from the outstanding faculty are just some of the things that I will be able to carry with me for the rest of my life. Before coming to this program, I would’ve never thought that I would’ve been able to enter a danger zone in an area where an earthquake completely destroyed the center of a town. Furthermore, the opportunities that this program has given me have further prepared me for my future journalistic endeavors. This program has not only challenged me in many ways, but it has taught me so many lessons that will forever be engrained in my mind. 

 

David Clark
David Clark
David Clark

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: There are many barriers in this world, some made by customs, others by language, others self-imposed for fear of embarrassing ourselves. What I’ve found here in Urbino is that, the harder you work to overcome those barriers, the more willing people are to welcome you into their lives, even if you look a little silly doing it. I met people in Urbino with whom I didn’t share a language, but because I was there letting them tell their own stories, they treated me like a close friend. I only hope that I can model this inviting attitude when I get back home and carry it with me wherever I go. There are so many stories to tell, so many barriers to overcome. My time in Urbino helped me learn how to tell those stories and connect with people across nations, languages, and some feelings of social awkwardness. It’s been an honor to be so welcome here and to make so many friends in a country where I couldn’t even speak the language except to order a cappuccino or say thank you. Grazie mille, Urbino! Arrivederci!

 

Aubree Daniel
Aubree Daniel
Aubree Daniel

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: This has been the best adventure of my life. I have immersed myself fully in a foreign culture- meeting locals, trying different foods, and experiencing a completely new way of living. Working with the most accomplished professionals, I have gained so many skills in photography and writing that will positively influence my future. I am excited to walk away from this excursion with a completely new perspective on life and a deep appreciation for this opportunity and those who made this opportunity possible. It has truly been a learning experience I will never forget.

 

Ashley Day
Ashley Day
Ashley Day

University: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Major: Communication
Urbino Experience: When I came to Urbino, I was taken aback by how beautiful it actually is. The long, uphill walks to the classrooms were well worth it for the gorgeous view of rolling hills and the homey, small town feel of the area. It’s been such an amazing experience getting to know other students, learning from incredibly talented professors and being immersed in Italian culture. I have been able to see parts of the countryside that I would never have the chance to explore on my own as well as gain valuable journalistic skills in photography, writing and video. 

 

Deia DeMarco
Deia De Marco
Deia De Marco

University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: This is my second time coming to Italy, but I must say the experience was much more authentic here in Urbino. I not only did I attended, and live at, an Italian University, but I researched and investigated journalistic stories that represent the lesser-seen part of Italy. I worked with top-notch professors and photographers and went on amazing, once-in-a-lifetime excursions. I worked hands-on in all stages with film, photo, production and even worked one on one with Italian interpreters. This experience has not only sharpened my skills as a photographer and journalist, but it has provided me with an invaluable asset to my portfolio that will undoubtably give me an advantage in my future endeavors. 

 

Devlynn Deitrick
Devlynn Deitrick
Devlynn Deitrick

University: Rider University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: I’ve always wanted to study abroad but was hesitant for the longest time. I’m so glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and decided to come to Urbino. In the passed few weeks that we’ve been here, Urbino has felt like home. I’m thankful for the amazing faculty that I’ve gotten the opportunity to work with, the friendships I’ve made, and how much this program has challenged me and pushed me to become a better journalist and photographer. I look forward to utilizing all the skills I’ve acquired since I’ve been here as I continue my career as a journalist.

 

Annie Farrell
Annie Farrell
Annie Farrell

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design
Urbino Experience: My experience in Urbino has been something I will never forget. This is my first time ever going abroad, and I could not have imagined a better place to be. The town of Urbino is so homey and I loved that I could feel so at home here so quickly. I will definitely miss being in the Piazza and taking in all the city has to offer. The best part of my experience here has been the people I met. I did not know anyone before going on this trip, and now that it is almost over I can say that I have found some great life-long friends. We all got so close very quickly and it has been amazing sharing this experience with them. The Urbino Project has given me the opportunity to expand my horizons, immerse myself in a new culture, and improve my writing and reporting skills.

 

Isabella Fertel
Isabella Fertel
Isabella Fertel

University: University of Pennsylvania
Major: Political Science
Urbino Experience: I have always loved to travel and soak up the culture of the places I visit. These past few weeks have been a crash course in the lifestyle of Le Marche, from beach trips to Pesaro to lounging around the piazza with a gelato. I never could have imagined all the things that I would learn about the magazine making process and feature writing both in and out of the classroom. All of the teachers and other students have been incredibly helpful in advancing my reporting and photography skills, as well as giving me a true news-room style experience. Although I won’t pine for the walk up to the classroom after we leave, I will truly miss all of the friends and connections that I have made here.

 

Halle Forbes
Halle Forbes
Halle Forbes

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: You know you are in staying in the right place in Italy when you travel to extravagant and popularized locations such as Florence and Bologna, and yet you just count down the hours until you are back in Urbino. Being in Urbino was at first a bit of a culture shock – even the simplest of tasks were difficult. Ordering a cappuccino, asking the cost of something, or even just making small talk with the locals were all tasks that were daunting and something that I never thought I would figure out. Yet, I did. Now I feel as if I am a part of the small town and the locals are truly the greatest people I have ever met. Each person that we had the honor of working with within our promotional video section was ecstatic to share their story with us, and maybe even a beer or two. I was able to experience true Italian hospitality and it is sincerely unlike any other. Even though at times we communication was difficult, the genuine smiles and laughter were sufficient. Urbino has become what feels like a home and the people have made it even more so.

 

Lara Garzill
Lara Garzilli
Lara Garzilli

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Interactive Design)
Urbino Experience: Urbino completely stole my heart. I was able to form lifelong friendships, learn a new language, travel to cities I always dreamed of going to, and develop skills that will be incredibly beneficial to my professional career. My favorite part about Urbino is that it deviates from the tourist ridden cities of Italy. The smaller town setting has made my time here so much more invaluable because I could connect with the locals on a more personal level. Somewhere between my daily gelato runs and evenings spent at SugarCafè, I came to the realization that although cultures appear to be different from one another, humanity is so much more similar than what meets the eye. I will be forever grateful to my professors and the ieiMedia program for giving me the opportunity to simultaneously submerse myself in a new culture and study what I am passionate about. As heartbroken as I am to depart from a place that has become a second home to me, I get to leave with memories that will be instilled in my mind for the rest of my life.

 

Madisson Haynes
Madisson Haynes
Madisson Haynes

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: Before beginning my wanderings in Urbino, I was hesitant and anxious to immerse myself in a brand-new culture. I, a learning journalist, was scared to become vulnerable. Once I stepped off the bus in Urbino, I felt at home. My skills and my passions have been put to the test since the first day of this trip. I have never quite experienced anything like this program, and I am so thankful for it. The culture, the people and the adventures I experienced while in Italy are many that I will hold close to my heart. I gained a greater sense of who I am as a journalist and what is important to me in this short month. I have fallen in love with the quaint town of Urbino and the memories I have made here. As we say our goodbyes to the people and this town, I will leave a part of me here, planning my next visit and my next adventure.

 

Christian Hedrick
Christian Hedrick
Christian Hedrick

University: Colorado State University
Major: Journalism & Media Communication
Urbino Experience: Studying journalism in Urbino was a life changing experience. The time I spent in Italy flew by, but I feel like my writing, reporting and photography skills improved more in these four weeks than in any journalism class I have taken at home. The small class sizes and one-on-one meetings from some of the best, most experienced, instructors in the field gave me the personalized advice I needed in order to grow as a journalist. Beyond that, the stunning environment, friendly people and amazing events the program provided made the classes enjoyable rather than arduous. As much as I learned in the classroom, perhaps the most valuable experience I acquired on the trip was from reporting in a foreign environment. Learning how to work with an interpreter, find a story and relate to people in a completely different culture are skills that I will keep for the rest of my life.

 

Emma Korynta
Emma Korynta
Emma Korynta

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Interactive Design)
Urbino Experience: I’ve wanted to study abroad since I was eight years old. My big sister did it and I thought it was the coolest experience. I never expected it to be this challenging and rewarding. I’m thankful for the people I’ve met, the progress I’ve made and the work I’ve put into being a better media student. Urbino, Italy is a small town bursting with life. I had never heard of it before applying to this program, but I can’t imagine life without it now. The size of this town has allowed me to fully enjoy the history and the beauty as well as immerse myself in the culture. I’ve made Italian friends that I’ll miss dearly, I think I know just about every waiter at the local café. I’m already thinking of when I can return to Urbino. While this chapter might be almost over, I’ll always be thinking of Italy and afternoons in the piazza. 

 

Aaron Lee
Aaron Lee
Aaron Lee

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: Being in the small city of Urbino for a month gave me a chance to see the way Italians live their everyday lives. Through various assignments I have gotten the chance to meet and interact with many different types of people in the Marche region of Italy. The types of people I met ranged from historical fencers, to gymnasts, to bocce players, as well as everyday citizens. It seemed like every person that I came into contact with was so willing to share his or her culture and passions with me. They were always patient when I tried to communicate with them in broken Italian. I really got a feel for the Italian way of living and hope to bring some of that lifestyle back to the States with me. The city of Urbino and the Marche region gave me so many memories and friendships in such a short period of time. One day I would like to come back to Urbino and reminisce on the memories I have made. 

 

Anthea Liu
Anthea Liu
Anthea Liu

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: My experience in Urbino had been indescribable. I would admit the first week was the hardest because of all of the culture shock. Everything here was different, the culture, food, voltage, language, weather, etc. However, as the first week passed by, I started to appreciate the difference between Urbino and the States. I fell in love with the beautiful ancient city, the coffee aroma in the air, the kind people around us and the natural beauty in this place; there were so much that I would never have a chance to experience in America. Sometimes I would even feel like I’m taking another lesson outside of classroom­­– a course that’s taught by Urbino. During this trip, I learned how to put myself out there and embraced the new culture. The Urbino study abroad trip is just a wonderful once in a life time experience, I’m really grateful that I decided to be a part of it.

 

Hannah Long
Hannah Long
Hannah Long

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: Having the opportunity to study in Italy these past four weeks is something I will never forget. Being here has taught me so much about myself, being a journalist, and the best way to live life: the Italian way. I will miss these breathtaking views and the kindness of the Urbino citizens, but I am leaving here with new friendships, a new and improved perspective on life, and the best hands-on journalistic experience I could have ever asked for. Being submersed in this amazing culture really got me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to see what the world (outside of my small Virginia town) has to offer. This was a once in a lifetime trip and I am so thankful to have called Urbino home, at least for a while.

 

Kathie Lowry
Katherine Lowry
Katherine Lowry

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Interactive Design)
Urbino Experience: The study abroad experience I have had is like none other that I have heard from my peers. The iei media program helps you become completely immersed in a foreign culture while taking a course directly related to your future profession rather than simply taking a course in a place other than your University. This course is very hands-on based, allowing you to actively learn about a sector that you and those around you are extremely passionate about. Working alongside a team of professionals producing quality work is something that not many people get to do in their four years at college. The work you put it into the stories you create pay off as it is something add to your resume and speak about during potential job interviews. Urbino is a wonderful town full of interesting people with many different backgrounds. Through this program I have been able to express my talents to the fullest in an unfamiliar, yet beautiful place that makes your job challenging, but at the same time, rewarding.

 

Emily Luft
Emily Luft
Emily Luft

University: Colorado State University
Major: Journalism & Media Communication
Urbino Experience: There’s nothing better than getting to practice journalism surrounded by Renaissance architecture, Italian language and hospitality. By jumping into local reporting, the program offers a great way to surpass the touristy approach to studying abroad and throws you right into the heart of the culture as well as career-level work. It’s going to be hard to leave and hard to top this experience.

 

Wesley Marcum
Wesley Marcum
Wesley Marcum

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: I made the decision to come to Urbino for the ieiMedia program because I thought it would be a great professional experience and would give me valuable material for my portfolio. What I actually got out of the experience was so much more than what I bargained for. The assignments I worked on took me far out of my comfort zone and taught me skills that I never thought I had needed or wanted to learn. However, the value of these skills cannot be overstated. Learning how to not just survive, but competently navigate through a foreign culture and language is an experience I believe everyone should seek out. Learning how to push my photography, videography and writing skills beyond anything I’ve previously done has been invaluable for me. I’m glad that opportunities like this exist for American students, and I hope that more will take advantage of these kinds of experiences whenever and wherever they can.

 

 

Lindsay McNeish
Lindsay McNeish
Lindsay McNeish

University: Colorado State University
Major: Journalism & Media Communication
Urbino Experience: I can’t think of a better way to have spent the summer of 2017: living in Urbino, Italy, eating gelato daily, conquering my fear of bugs, and practicing the art of journalism. Living in Italy for more than a few, touristy days really helped me soak in all the culture and learn how the people of Urbino live. Traveling 6,000 miles away from home not knowing a soul was scary, but it was worth it. On this trip I learned more about myself, about journalism, and about last-minute train platform changes. The highlight of my trip was creating friendships with people from all over the world. Overall, the Urbino Project was a great experience and I would recommend it to anyone. 

 

Kristen Mirand
Kristen Mirand
Kristen Mirand

University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: I had no idea what to expect signing up for ieiMedia’s program in Urbino. I had no idea I would form close bonds with cafe and restaurant owners within a matter of four weeks. I had no idea how much of an impact this city would have on my self-growth. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity this program offered me and many other colleagues of mine. I worked with professionals that challenged me, but strengthened my journalistic skills. The bonds I formed and the experiences I had will be strongly cherished. As grateful as I am for the excess amount of wine and gelato I had, I will be forever grateful for this once in a lifetime experience.

 

Laura Modica
Laura Modica
Laura Modica

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: I didn’t truly understand why students, especially the Urbino ones, rave about study abroad until I was in the action. More things happen in this city in a month than happen in Harrisonburg in a semester. Even though not many people know English, they are so hospitable and try their best to communicate with me. Exploring this hilly and ancient town with my new friends from the states along with my new Italian friends made the town come alive. Sitting in the main square drinking cappuccinos at Basili hanging and working alongside my friends are memories I will always cherish. In the video section I have gotten a different experience than my classmates in other sections. I had the pleasure of working very closely with Rustin Greene, Greg Luft, and Barry Janes which made my time here so much better than I could’ve expected. I had the opportunity to get very close with Giovanni, the owner of a café called “Sugar Café”, who helped me a great deal with my story and even drove us all to a secret location where the older men and woman play “La Murra Sarda.” That night shoot was my favorite because the people were so alive and willing to talk with me about their lives, share their traditions, food and drinks with us and got the chance to produce/direct. 

 

Katie O'Brien
Katie O’Brien
Katie O’Brien

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: These past four weeks in Urbino, Italy have truly been eye-opening and full of incredible experiences. Not only have I become friends with my peers on the study abroad trip, but I have also developed relationships with some of the locals in the town through the process of writing my article, as well as just friendly Italian students and citizens of Urbino. I have come to love this quaint little town that always seems to have something going on. On our two three day weekends off when many students traveled to other parts of Italy, I found myself missing this place that has become a home away from home. Although, not every day was easy and relaxing during this program, I can say that the amount of work that I have put into it has been very rewarding. I am so grateful that I was able to have this experience, because I think this has been one of the best ways to fully immerse myself in the Italian culture. 

 

Claire Oliver
Claire Oliver
Claire Oliver

University: Colorado State University
Major: Journalism & Media Communication
Urbino Experience: Italy is an amazing place with amazing people.  Each person has a story that is connected to a long line of traditions and family history that extends back for hundreds of years.  It has been an honor being able to interact with these people and tell their stories.  Working internationally has broadened my horizons on food, culture, and people.  It was challenging of course trying to communicate by speaking through someone else and using wild hand gestures to try and get your point across but it has been one for the books and I am so glad I had the opportunity to experience this type of reporting first hand. I also am excited to say I have eaten ‘real’ pizza from Italian restaurants in Rome and in Urbino. Going back, I know that I have learned from some the best and brightest the journalism world has to offer and I couldn’t be more grateful for such a wonderful experience.  

 

Emily Olivier
Emily Olivier
Emily Olivier

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: I am so grateful to have been able to spend a few weeks in the magical town of Urbino. While I eagerly anticipated the ancient beauty of the area, I never could have imagined the incredible people and magical atmosphere that make up this place. I can’t recall a minute of this trip where I wasn’t surrounded by something beautiful. On top of the breathtaking things I’ve seen, I’ve also gotten the chance to really engage in the community and learn more than I could have imagined. I have learned so much professionally, but more than that, I have learned about Italian culture, about traveling and about myself. As a prepared for the trip, I worried that a month abroad might be too long. Now, as the trip comes to a close, I realize a few weeks wasn’t nearly long enough. I am eternally grateful to this special place for the memories, lessons and the friendships that it gave me. Thank you Urbino, for welcoming our group of crazy Americans with open arms. 

 

Jaysha Patel
Jaysha Patel
Jaysha Patel

University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: My experience this summer is something I will value for the rest of my life. Not only was I able to build connections and learn from media industry professionals, I have also gained valuable reporting experience while making unforgettable memories. I was able to go into a danger zone to report about the earthquake damage in Camerino, Italy. This is something I never imagined doing at the age of 20. My experience here in Italy is something I will forever be grateful for.

 

Corinne Schmidt
Corinne Schmidt
Corinne Schmidt

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: I loved being able to experience Italy here in the small town of Urbino and am extremely grateful for the opportunity I was given to come here. Urbino is a home away from home with the atmosphere and people.Everyone is so eager to help even with an language barrier.  It was an eye opening experience that encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and seize every opportunity. The people that I’ve met, the food, and the amazing views will always stay with me wherever I go. I will miss the friendly people of the town, my wonderful professors who taught me so much, the translators who were  willing to help with anything and all the new friends that I’ve made while studying here. This program has made me grow so much in photography, video, and writing and I look forward to take what I’ve learned while being here and apply it to other projects. 

 

Avalon Singer
Avalon Singer
Avalon Singer

University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: This was my first time in Italy and when I arrived in Urbino I was mesmerized by the beautiful mountains and the green pastures. My experience here has been unforgettable, from the friendly people to the authentic meals. The interviews I have been on have led me to hidden locations in Le Marche region, and I’ve been able to work one on one with interpreters who have helped me to explore the lesser known wonders of Italy. In the future I am excited to further explore photography and multimedia, mediums I have been able to experiment with in my time here.

 

Faith Stackpole
Faith Stackpole
Faith Stackpole

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: Urbino might not be the most popular destination in Italy, but I’m eternally grateful I had the chance to experience this wonderful town. Urbino is full of rich culture, heartwarming people, and hidden gems around every corner. The work I’ve done here may have not been easy, but it has given me great opportunities and will certainly be rewarding when it’s complete. Working closely with my peers, and being instructed by the talented staff has been an experience like no other, I have learned so much from each and every one of them. I will miss my daily chocolate croissant and cappuccinos for breakfast, and I will most definitely have gelato withdrawals when I get back. Urbino has been life changing, and a great opportunity to be able to surround myself with amazing people and culture like no other.

 

Colin Stoecker
Colin Stoecker
Colin Stoecker

University: Georgetown University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: The Urbino project has been a once in a lifetime opportunity for me as a young journalist to hone my skills in multimedia reporting. I chose Urbino, Italy without knowing much about the town itself, and having only been to Italy once before for about a week had much to learn about Italian culture and studying abroad at Urbino University. The staff have been truly wonderful in assisting the students with their reporting projects. They have been supportive every step of the way, beginning by teaching us basic journalism classes, and then moving on to the advanced troubleshooting for the challenges that each individual student had to overcome in each of their projects. The University of Urbino and the town is very beautiful and is very student centered. Almost half of the population of Urbino is students and I am surrounded by fusball, history, art, food, and culture here in the Rennisance era castle town. I have become a better journalist because of this program and I strongly believe about this program and about life that you get out what you put in. Overall my time in Urbino has been something I could never have experienced back in the states. Thank you!

 

Annabel Wall
Annabel Wall
Annabel Wall

University: Colorado State University
Major: Journalism & Media Communication
Urbino Experience: Annabel Wall is a rising junior at Colorado State University. She studies communications studies student with a minor in sports, stage, and media production. This is Annabel’s first journalistic experience. She came across the program quite accidentally perusing the CSU study abroad options, and hastily signed up. She is trained in theatre and dance, and while she no longer holds a theatre major, she is still deeply involved in CSUs’s theatre department. Annabel hopes to pursue her love for storytelling and creativity in Hollywood as a film producer.

 

Christina Ziu
Christina Ziu
Christina Ziu

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: Urbino has given me so much in just four short weeks — beautiful views, endless cappuccinos, a chance to see a new part of the world. However, what I love the most about Urbino is all the incredible people I have met along the way. Every day here, I encounter a friendly, familiar face. The sense of community is contagious, and it’s humbling that I got the chance to both be a part of this community while also documenting it as a journalist. I’m thankful to have crossed paths with every person I met in Urbino — professors, sources, locals, peers — because each one positively impacted my time here. For this reason, I believe I grew as a journalist, photographer, and videographer and for that I am eternally grateful. Thank you Urbino, for the experience of a lifetime.