This presentation will explore my experiences when studying abroad in Bologna, Italy during the Spring 2022 semester. During my time abroad, I was exposed to a variety of new opportunities that provided me with a greater understanding of how to be a better global citizen. I learned new ways to problem-solve through time management, communicating in a foreign language, and public transportation as well as thoroughly planning trips to various cities that were rich in culture and history. I also was faced with the unique challenge of navigating this experience within the historical context of Covid-19. I studied abroad through the Spring Hill College program, which consisted of group trips to Florence and Trieste. Here, we were given the opportunity of  guided historical walks through the cities within the context of social justice. My study abroad experience was particularly remarkable due to the fact that I am Italian-American and was raised in a family of Italian immigrants. My abroad experience was very exceptional and healing because I got to connect with my culture and heritage in an extraordinary way by immersing myself further in the language and culture and sharing this with my peers in the program.I was also able to meet my family in Sicily for the first time in my life and reconnect with my family in Germany. This once in a lifetime experience was truly magical and I am so excited to share more about my journey. 

Simone Bregni is an exceptional professor who taught at Saint Louis University for 22 years. He now acts as the Director for the Spring Hill Bologna, Italy study abroad program. Dr. Bregni has always gone above and beyond for his students and works hard to ensure that they have all the resources and tools necessary in order to excel in whichever path they choose to pursue. In addition to teaching, he is a phenomenal life mentor who is happy to share about his life experiences and how they have sculpted him into the person he is today.