Lewis University student Katie Maki of Plainfield studies in Italy

2014 Jun 11

From the Roman Coliseum to Michelangelo's David, Lewis University students experienced the many sights of Italy during a ten-day Travel Study trip from May 10-20.

Mary Moran, history major, claimed the trip as one of the most unique learning experiences she has ever had. "My top learning experience would probably be going to the Vatican Museums, specifically the Raphael Rooms," said Moran. "The paintings in these rooms were amazing. There were text panels in the middle of the room giving background information on the events shown, so it was interesting to relate the events in the paintings to different themes learned in class."

"I connected with what I was learning so much more than simply reading about it," said Theresa Martin, theology major. "The food and culture of Italy was so rich, and by going to Rome, Assisi and Florence, I was able to get a better sense of the different styles in Italy. I'm so glad I went on this trip."

The Italy travel study program has become one of the cornerstones of the Study Abroad Office. This trip was the 10th time that Dr. Dominic Colonna, professor of theology, has led students to Italy, and the seventh time for Dr. Dennis Cremin, professor of history, over the past eight years. Each year, 15- 20 students take part in the program.

Chris Swanson, director of study abroad, praised Dr. Colonna and Dr. Cremin's efforts. "The Italy Travel Study is a consistently popular and well run program," said Swanson. "Dr. Colonna and Dr. Cremin put a lot of extra effort into every aspect of the program, from recruiting the students and planning the itinerary to using innovative teaching methods, such as place-based learning. The results of that extra work are evident in the incredibly positive and enriching educational experiences that the students have on their program."

Students enrolled in Dr. Colonna's Christian Faith and the Arts course and Dr. Cremin's Culture and Civilization course participated on the trip, including Erin Carey, Angelique Cope, Alison Cross, Danielle Curtis, Juliana Estrada, Alyssa Faciana, Michael Foster, Marvin Gomez, Nikki Insalaco, Melissa Jimenez, Catherine Kelly, Katie Maki, Theresa Marten, Marikate McCann, Mary Moran, Sarah Sasanelli, Kate Stevens and Danielle Vitagliano.

The Study Abroad office provides students at Lewis University the unique chance to complement and enhance their academic careers with a variety of international academic opportunities. Programs run anywhere from a few weeks to an academic year and offer Lewis courses that can fit into general education, elective, minor, and/or major credits depending on the program. More information about study abroad experiences is available by contacting Chris Swanson, director of Study Abroad at 815-836-5993 or studyabroad@lewisu.edu.

Lewis University is a Catholic university in the Lasallian tradition offering distinctive undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 6,600 traditional and adult students. Lewis offers multiple campus locations, online degree programs, and a variety of formats that provide accessibility and convenience to a growing student population. Sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, Lewis prepares intellectually engaged, ethically grounded, globally connected, and socially responsible graduates. The seventh largest private not-for-profit university in Illinois, Lewis has been nationally recognized by The Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report. Visit www.lewisu.edu for further information.