A few weeks ago, the 53 USAC (University Study Abroad Consortium) students were invited to attend an official welcome ceremony with Mayor Guilio Marini at the beautiful Palazzi Comunali in Viterbo, Italy. It was an honor to be invited to an event celebrating the 30th anniversary of USAC and the 6th anniversary of the Viterbo program. We enjoyed being part of a unique group of past and present students who were thanked by the Mayor for being important ambassadors for the city.
The Mayor acknowledged that having students integrate with the local community, volunteer for the Mama and Papa - I Speak English programs, and participate in multi-cultural activities, is of mutual benefit to the students and the city of Viterbo. The city wishes to continue to open Viterbo’s walls to the outside world and become more contemporary, but acknowledges the challenge of staying true to the city’s rich medieval history. Mayor Marini invited all the students to return to Viterbo in the future and continue to enjoy all aspects of the community.
While the day was casual, it certainly gave me time to reflect on the amazing experience we Americans are having in Viterbo. I am sure more than a few of us have had some ups and downs. And sure, I know a lot of students crave Mexican food, warm buildings and family back home. But interacting and connecting with people in the community, being accepted as international students, learning new and important perspectives, changing our technology and instant gratification behavior, loving and appreciating our temporary home, loving our American home, traveling to cool destinations, forging boldly ahead with new experiences, traveling and language lessons…well, it’s molto bene!
Truly, a huge grazie to the USAC staff – Stefano, Frankie, Marco and Luisa - for such a well-run program. The experience, knowledge and assistance with transitions, curriculum advising, and just day-to-day college student issues(!) is awesome!
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