Why did you decide to become an Italian major?
I graduated from Wellesley with a dual degree in Women’s & Gender Studies and Italian and neither were a part of my initial college plans. After my first class with Professor Parussa and now one of my best friends Abby, I knew I had to pursue Italian deeper than I initially thought I would. I give a lot of credit of my choice to become an Italian major to the professors in the class and the way they engaged us to speak and understand Italian culture. They always made a point to mention how I was progressing and what I needed to work on. My final decision was made after I returned from studying abroad in Bologna and I ran into Professor Ward on campus during the summer. He made me feel so comfortable and confident in my Italian fluency and assured me I had what it took to be a major. Becoming an Italian major was a surprise but an experience I will never forget!
How did it shape your time at Wellesley?
I honestly felt like I joined an exclusive club where only so few knew how truly amazing the Italian language and culture really are. I went to movie nights, Italian table during lunch, and I laughed with professors often. Becoming a major and studying abroad became who I was at the core of my undergraduate career.
How has it influenced your life after Wellesley?
I am only 1 full year out of Wellesley, so my experience of undergrad is very fresh and something I still cling to. Because of this strong connection, I try to look for connections to Italian culture in everything! In New Orleans, where I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Health, I have found Italian restaurants, gelato parlors, and an Italian culture museum. I frequently think about the memories I’ve made both on campus and abroad in Italy during my time at Wellesley which makes me wish I was back in class asking Professor Parussa how to say “jeggings” in Italian.