Why did you decide to become an Italian major?
Coming into Wellesley, I would have never guessed that I would come out an Italian major. I knew that I wanted to study abroad in Italy as a Classics student, so I began to take Italian to prepare for that experience. Before I knew it, it was sophomore year, and the time had come to choose a study abroad program. I had two choices: a Classics program in Rome that was run through another university, or the Wellesley-sponsored program in Bologna. Needless to say, I chose the Bologna program and thus became a Classical Civ/Italian double major.
How did it shape your time at Wellesley?
I could not be happier that I chose to study Italian along with Latin. It not only enriched my studies, but it also allowed me to travel and open my eyes to a world of new opportunities. While in Bologna, I was able to study 15th century Bolognese art history and see the works of art in-person, read 18th century romantic literature in Italian, and study the pre-Roman Etruscans in a city where they once inhabited.
How has it influenced your life after Wellesley?
Outside of the classroom, I became interested in the culture of wine in Bologna and Italy as a whole. This interest inspired me to go to Napa Valley after graduation to work the 2014 harvest. I would have never taken advantage of this incredible opportunity, had it not been for my trip to Bologna where I tried some of the best food and wine pairings.
After the harvest, I decided to return home to Kansas City after my long journey. I am currently working for a non-profit sports association, the NAIA, on the marketing team and plan to continue on the marketing career path. While my current job has little to do with my Italian major, the path to getting here was very much shaped by my experiences at Wellesley and the Italian department. I have a much higher appreciation for art, literature, fine wine, and travel and still keep in contact with the lifelong friends I made in Bologna. Also, I think it is appropriate to mention that in every interview I've done since Wellesley, my interviewer either comments on or asks about my language skills and abroad experience.
My Italian major has definitely lent me the worldly, "non so cosa" that makes me stand out from the rest in an interview and in everyday interactions. If you are considering an Italian major at Wellesley, let me tell you that the experiences you will gain from choosing this major will serve you well and stick with you throughout your life.